Gölova Nature Area is an internationally important nature area located around the dam lake on the Kelkit River in the Gölova district, east of Sivas, hosting an endemic plant species; suitable for bird watching and short walks.
Gölova Nature Area is located within the borders of Gölova district, 170 km from Sivas, around the dam lake built on the Kelkit River. The area is not an ordinary picnic spot. It hosts an endemic mullein species called Verbascum trichostylum, and ruddy shelducks breed in the reeds, which is why it holds the status of an Internationally Important Nature Area. Cranes used to breed here as well, but now they only stop during migration periods.
Many bird species such as ducks, ruddy shelducks, white-fronted geese, wild geese, gulls, and herons stay or live in the Dam Lake, Aşağı Tepecik Lake, and Sütlü Lake. Fish like carp, mirror carp, and mullet are also found beneath the waters. A common theme in visitor comments is the silence of the lake view and the clean air. Some visitors mention stopping for a short tea break, while others come for photography. Campers note that there is no drinking water or electricity and that they should bring their own supplies.
Comments on facilities are a bit mixed: some say the parking area is spacious and the mosque is clean, while others believe the area could be better maintained by the municipality. It's useful to keep expectations low; this is not a fully equipped holiday village, but a stop to be alone with nature.
Related discoveries: Natural Beauties, Sivas natural beauties, Hafik Lake.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
Spring and summer months are the most vibrant period. The lake surroundings turn green, and bird activity increases. During migration periods, especially in spring and autumn, your chances of seeing species like cranes increase; because cranes no longer breed here, they only stop during migration. In winter, the region can be cold and desolate as it is at the transition point between the Black Sea and continental climates.
How to Get There
It is 170 km from Sivas city center, in the easternmost district of the province. Going by your own car is the most comfortable option, with rural landscapes accompanying you along the way. If you are going by bus, ask about services departing from Sivas bus terminal to Gölova. From the district center, it's a short distance to the lake area.
Photo Spots
The wide-angle view of the dam lake is especially preferred for drone shots. The edges of the reeds are suitable for bird photography. In the early morning hours, light and silence come together. The wooden structures on the lake shore can also be used as a background.
Things to Consider
The area is officially protected as a nature region. Therefore, it is important not to leave litter and not to harm the reed areas. If you are camping, remember that there is no drinking water or electricity, bring your own supplies. The facility infrastructure is limited, so adjust your expectations accordingly.
Natural Value of the Region
Gölova stands out from an ordinary picnic area with its features that place it on the list of Internationally Important Nature Areas. The endemic Verbascum trichostylum species grows here, and ruddy shelducks spend their breeding season in the reeds. Birds such as ducks, ruddy shelducks, white-fronted geese, wild geese, gulls, herons, marsh harriers, coots, and black-headed gulls are seen in the Dam Lake, Aşağı Tepecik Lake, and Sütlü Lake. Carp, mirror carp, mullet, silverfish, and zander live beneath the waters.
Visit Suggestion
If you are planning a half-day stop, you can take a walk by the lake, have a short prayer break at the mosque, and then drink tea with a view. Many visitors recommend this. For a full-day visit, camping and watching the light fall on the lake in the evening is preferred. Adding a short visit to Gölova district center is also beneficial to see the general atmosphere of the region.
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