Bafra Kolay Tourism Center, located on the shore of the lake formed by the Derbent Dam in Bafra district of Samsun, offers nature and history together with its dam view and Asarkale Rock Tombs.
The dam lake, which emerged with the construction of the Derbent Dam, transformed the area around Bafra's Kolay village into a completely different landscape. At this point where the Kızılırmak river passes through the valley, the rocks and green slopes reflected on the lake surface turn the region into a view rarely seen in the inner parts of the Black Sea. Kolay Tourism Center is located right in the middle of this scenery, serving as both a daily picnic area and the starting point for a historical tour.
The Asarkale Rock Tombs, located very close to the center, reveal the historical depth of the region. These rock-carved tombs can be visited along with the Potern structure, which allows ascent via a secret passage. Walking along the dam lake and then seeing the rock tombs takes Kolay far beyond an ordinary picnic spot. The center, which stands out with a 4.8 rating on Google, has become a frequently preferred route for visitors from Samsun and surrounding provinces.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Samsun historical places, Onur Monument.
Guide's Note
Bafra Kolay Tourism Center is evaluated by the vast majority of visitors as an area that stands out with its clean air and green nature by the lake. Multiple visitors emphasize that they enjoy spending time here and the relaxing effect of nature.
Important information for nature lovers interested in the area: It is reported that Pine Processionary Moth caterpillars are seen in the region. Since the hairs of these caterpillars can cause allergic reactions and poisoning, it is necessary to avoid close contact and especially keep pets away.
Comments indicate that the villagers make efforts to keep the area tidy; however, some visitors leaving their trash after picnics and fishing is also a reported problem. In addition, at least one visitor states that the distance to the center is long.
- Littering problem: It is reported that some visitors do not leave picnic and fishing areas clean, which causes environmental and visual pollution.
- Distance for transportation: The road to the center is stated to be long; it is recommended to plan your route before visiting.
- Processionary moth caterpillars: It is necessary not to touch these caterpillars seen in the region and to keep pets away.
Best Time to Visit
The most suitable period for visiting is April–June and September–October. During these months, the water level of the dam lake is high, making the view much more impressive; the paths leading to the rock tombs will also not be muddy. Expect crowds on weekends during July–August as many visitors come from Samsun and surrounding provinces. In winter, rain and fog can make walking difficult.
How to Get There?
There is approximately 55 km by road from Samsun city center to Bafra. If you are coming by private car, simply follow the Samsun–Bafra highway and then the direction to Kolay village from Bafra district center. Those who want to come by public transport can first reach Bafra from Samsun by bus or minibus; minibus services are organized from Bafra district center to Kolay village. Calling Bafra Municipality (444 55 69) for current service hours is the most reliable way.
Suggested Visit Route
After reaching the center, first take a short walk along the dam lake shore; take time to photograph at the point where the Kızılırmak valley turns into a lake. Then follow the path leading to Asarkale to see the rock tombs. Finally, pass through the secret passage known as Potern and look at the lake view from above. This entire route will take approximately 2–3 hours. Since there may not be sales points in the vicinity, it is useful to bring water and a light snack with you.
Photo Spots
Kolay Tourism Center is a spot rated 4.8 on Google and frequently visited by photographers. The corners where the dam lake reflects the rocks create a mirror effect, especially around 08:00 and in windless weather. Wide-angle shots taken from the top of Asarkale allow you to fit both the lake and valley views into the same frame. It is also a very productive location for phone cameras; wide-angle mode can be preferred.
Food and Drink
The restaurant or cafe infrastructure around Kolay village and the tourism center is quite limited. In Bafra district center, Bafra pide is a must-try delicacy; this local product, which differs from other pides in Turkey with its closed and round shape, has become the symbol of the district. The most practical approach is to eat in Bafra center before your visit and bring water and snacks with you.
Things to Pay Attention To
The path leading to Asarkale can be slippery in rainy weather; choose sturdy-soled shoes. You need to get information in advance for swimming or boat activities on the dam lake; there is no clear data from the center on this. Although visiting hours are stated as 08:00–17:00, we recommend getting up-to-date information from Bafra Municipality (444 55 69) before you go. Since the signal may be weak in the vicinity, downloading the map in advance and using it offline will be helpful.
How Much Time Should Be Allocated?
Kolay Tourism Center can be easily visited as part of a day trip from Bafra. Exploring the lake walk, rock tombs, and Potern passage together will take 2–3 hours. If you combine it with other historical and natural spots in Bafra district center, you can spend a full day. If you are coming from Samsun, it is possible to leave in the morning and return in the afternoon.
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