Lake Eğirdir in Isparta is Turkey's fourth-largest and second-largest freshwater lake, featuring turquoise waters divided by the Hoyran Strait, with free shoreline access and paid beach facilities.
Lake Eğirdir is a tectonic lake nestled between the Sultan Mountains and the Karakuş Mountains. It holds the title of Turkey's fourth largest lake and second largest freshwater lake. The Hoyran Strait divides the lake into two: the northern part is slightly shallower, and the southern part is deeper. The water color appears turquoise from the shore, turning dark blue in the open waters.
Yeşilada (Green Island) is actually now a peninsula, connected to the mainland by a causeway. As of 2024, vehicle entry here became subject to a fee, while it is free for pedestrians. The island has fish restaurants, small hotels, and narrow streets; it's a good spot for photography when the light falls in the late afternoon. Eğirdir Public Beach is close to the center, suitable for families with children due to its shallow and calm water. There are sun loungers and umbrellas but no shower cabins. Altınkum Beach, on the other hand, is operated by the Municipality, and separate fees are charged for entry and parking.
The picnic areas along the lake shore are operated by the General Directorate of Forestry (OGM), with designated spots for barbecues. The lake, which hosts nearly 225 bird species, is also one of the region's prominent spots for birdwatching. It takes approximately 30 minutes by car from Isparta city center, and access is easy via the D-330 highway.
Guide's Note
When to Visit Lake Eğirdir?
For swimming, June-September is suitable, with water temperatures highest in July-August. In winter, the lake surroundings are quiet but cool; this period can be preferred for walks and photography. In spring, picnic areas are less crowded, making it a good time for nature walks.
How to Get to Lake Eğirdir?
It takes approximately 30 minutes by private car from Isparta city center via the D-330 highway. Those preferring public transport can use the minibuses departing from the center. For those coming from Antalya or Konya, Eğirdir is also located close to the main highway.
How Many Days Should You Allocate?
A day trip is sufficient for a visit to Yeşilada and a few hours at the beach. Those wishing to stay overnight can spend 1-2 nights in Eğirdir to explore both the lakeside and the fish restaurants in Yeşilada more comfortably. On the second day, it makes sense to extend the trip to the picnic areas around the lake or Kovada Lake National Park.
Route Suggestion
Spending a few hours at Eğirdir Public Beach in the morning and then moving to Yeşilada in the afternoon is a good sequence. On the island, you can walk through the narrow streets and have lunch at one of the fish restaurants. Late afternoon, as the light falls, is a good time for taking photos along the lake shore.
Where to Stay?
There are small boutique hotels and guesthouses on Yeşilada, and rooms with lake views can be preferred. More affordable accommodation options are also available in Eğirdir center. Those wishing to camp can use the designated camping areas along the lake shore.
What to Eat?
Fresh fish from the lake is a prominent option at the restaurants in Yeşilada. Tatar ravioli, stuffed carp, and fava bean borani from Isparta cuisine are among the local delicacies to try in the region. Rose delight and rose tea are also products that can be bought when returning from the city.
Things to Pay Attention To
There is a fee for vehicle entry to Yeşilada, but it is free for pedestrians; leaving your car and walking might be more budget-friendly. At Altınkum Beach, there are separate fees for parking and cabins, so having cash is useful. Barbecues in picnic areas can only be done at designated spots.
Photo Spots
The causeway connecting Yeşilada to the mainland is a spot that shows both sides of the lake in the same frame. Photos taken from the public beach towards sunset capture the color transitions of the water. From the hills around the Hoyran Strait, the lake can be seen as a whole.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
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