Lake Egirdir: Turquoise Waters in the Lakes District
Lake Egirdir is Turkey’s fourth largest lake and second largest freshwater body. The lake is located at 3,011 feet (918 meters) above sea level, surrounded by mountainous terrain optimal for hiking. It is known locally as the “Seven Colored Lake” due to its waters shifting from emerald to vibrant turquoise throughout the day.
Highlights of Lake Egirdir
Yesilada (Green Island) & Can Island
There are two small connected islands linked to the mainland town by a scenic causeway:
- Can Island (Life Island): A tiny, uninhabited islet originally gifted to the founder of the republic Mustafa Kemal Ataturk during his visit to the region.
- Yesilada (Green Island): A historic Ottoman fishing village filled with wooden stone pensions, narrow lanes, fish taverns and the 19th century Church of St. Nicholas.
Freshwater Gastronomy
Lake Egirdir is famous across Turkey for its local culinary specialties and surrounding agricultural wealth:
- Sudak (Pike-Perch / Freshwater Bass): Served pan fried or grilled with butter and garlic at waterfront family taverns on Yesilada.
- Isparta Apples: The valleys surrounding Lake Egirdir produce over 20% of Turkey’s apples. In spring, the shores are covered in white apple blossoms.
- Lakeside Crawfish (Kerevit): Fresh crawfish harvested directly from the lake served with local herbs and garlic olive oil.
Hiking & Outdoor Adventure Hub
Egirdir serves as the principal staging hub for the Saint Paul Trail. Outdoor adventurers use the town as a base for climbing the peak of Mount Sivri (5,740 feet | 1,749 m), mountain biking along the shoreline or skiing at nearby Davraz Winter Sports Center during the winter months.
Location & Travel Guide
Lake Egirdir is located in Isparta province, approximately 22 miles (36 kms) northeast of Isparta city center and 115 miles (186 kms) north of Antalya.
Practical Travel Tips:
- How to Get There: Regular minibuses connect Isparta central bus station to Egirdir. Isparta Suleyman Demirel Airport (ISE) is the closest regional airport, while Antalya Airport (AYT) offers extensive international flights.
- Where to Stay: Family run lakeside pensions on Yesilada offer cozy rooms with lake views, traditional breakfasts and bicycles.
- Best Seasonality: Spring through Autumn (May - October) provides warm sunny days for lake swimming, cycling and hiking. Autumn offers crisp air ideal for hiking.
