Uzungöl and the Yayla Villages of Çaykara

A Highland Escape in the Çaykara Mountains

Tucked into the misty folds of the Çaykara highlands, Uzungöl is a place where the air smells of pine and woodsmoke, and the lake reflects a patchwork of green peaks and traditional wooden houses. This is Turkey's Black Sea at its most lush and inviting, a summer escape that feels both remote and welcoming.

The lake itself sits at around 1,100 meters, surrounded by steep slopes covered in tea gardens and dense forests. Wooden guesthouses and hotels line the shore, their balconies offering front-row seats to the ever-changing play of mist and light. It's a landscape that invites slow mornings and leisurely exploration.

Beyond the lake, the Çaykara valleys are dotted with yayla villages—high plateaus where locals still migrate in summer with their herds. These villages offer a glimpse into a pastoral way of life that has endured for centuries, with stone houses, wooden mosques, and terraced fields.

Things to See and Do Around Uzungöl

The main draw is simply being here: strolling the lakeside promenade, renting a paddleboat, or finding a quiet bench to watch the fog roll across the water. The Uzungöl Nature Park is perfect for easy walks, and the surrounding trails lead to waterfalls and viewpoints like the Seyir Tepesi, which offers a panoramic vista of the lake and village.

For a deeper immersion, drive or take a dolmuş to villages such as Şahinkaya, Uzuntarla, or Dernekpazarı. Here you can visit traditional wooden mosques, see women weaving, and sample local honey and kuymak—a gooey cornmeal and cheese dish that is the region's comfort food. The Çaykara area is also known for its trout farms, where you can catch your own lunch.

Adventurous travelers can tackle the winding mountain roads that lead to higher yaylas like Demirkapı or Anzer. The views are breathtaking, and in summer the plateaus are carpeted with wildflowers. Note that these roads are narrow and can be foggy, so drive with care.

Local Flavors: Trout and Kuymak by the Water

No visit to Uzungöl is complete without a meal by the lake. The local trout, fresh from the cold streams, is often grilled simply with butter and lemon. Pair it with kuymak, a bubbling skillet of cornmeal, butter, and cheese that you scoop up with bread. It's hearty, delicious, and utterly Black Sea.

Other specialties include mıhlama (a similar cheese and cornmeal dish), pickled vegetables, and fresh salads with local greens. For dessert, try the region's honey and hazelnuts, or a slice of Laz böreği—a sweet, custard-filled pastry. Many restaurants have terraces overlooking the water, making every meal a scenic experience.

Tea gardens are ubiquitous; stop for a çay (Turkish tea) in a tulip-shaped glass and soak in the view. The tea here is grown locally, and the experience of sipping it while gazing at the misty lake is quintessentially Çaykara.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit

Uzungöl is popular, especially on weekends and holidays. To enjoy its tranquility, visit on weekdays when the crowds thin out and the lake feels more serene. The weather can change rapidly, so bring waterproof shoes and a rain jacket even in summer. The trails and village paths can be muddy, so sturdy footwear is a must.

Accommodation ranges from simple pansiyons to comfortable wooden hotels. Booking ahead is wise during peak season (June to September). Public transport from Trabzon is available, but renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the yayla villages at your own pace. The drive from Trabzon takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, winding through stunning scenery.

Respect local customs: dress modestly when visiting villages and mosques, and always ask before photographing people. Learning a few words of Turkish will go a long way in this warm-hearted region.

Pairing Uzungöl with Sümela and the Black Sea Coast

Uzungöl makes an excellent addition to a Black Sea itinerary. Combine it with a visit to the iconic Sümela Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff face in the Altındere Valley. The monastery is about 1.5 hours away and can be visited on the same day, though both deserve ample time.

From Trabzon, you can also explore the coastal towns of Rize and Of, known for their tea plantations and vibrant markets. The Black Sea coast itself offers beaches, historical sites, and delicious seafood. A loop that includes Trabzon, Sümela, Uzungöl, and the yayla villages captures the essence of the region.

For a truly memorable trip, consider staying a night in a yayla village guesthouse, where you can experience the traditional highland lifestyle firsthand. The hospitality is legendary, and the starry skies are unforgettable.

When to Go and How Long to Stay

The best time to visit Uzungöl is from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are green. July and August are the warmest months, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, but also the busiest. Spring brings wildflowers and rushing waterfalls, while autumn paints the forests in gold and amber.

A minimum of two days is recommended to fully appreciate Uzungöl and its surroundings. This allows for a day exploring the lake and village, and another day venturing into the yayla villages or hiking to a viewpoint. If you want to combine it with Sümela and Trabzon, plan for at least three to four days.

No matter how long you stay, the misty lakes and generous tables of Çaykara will leave you refreshed and inspired.