Yedigoller National Park is centred around the seven lakes located in northern Turkey. These little, charming lakes, which go by the names Buyukgol, Kucukgol, Deringol, Nazligol, Seringol, Sazligol, and Incegol, were created when landslides drowned a small mountain stream. A portion of the water in the cascading streams that connect the lakes is supplied by subterranean springs. The name “yedigoller” in Turkish means “seven lakes,” which describes the park’s distinct topography.
Established in 1969, the 1,359-acre park is heavily forested with oaks, beech, hornbeams, alders, spruce, black pines, and firs. This diverse vegetation creates a stunning display of colors in the fall, attracting nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The park’s forest trails lead visitors to various viewpoints and scenic overlooks, making it a perfect destination for people seeking peace and natural beauty.
Located a few miles south of the Black Sea, Seven Lakes National Park is rarely crowded. Visitors can enjoy the park’s serene environment, with picnic tables and a few rental bungalows provided by the Forestry Ministry. These bungalows, available by reservation, are equipped with fireplaces for chilly evenings. Campers often set up tents by the lakes, bringing their supplies as no additional services are available within the park.
The closest city is Bolu, which is two hours’ drive away from the Seven Lakes area. The adventure is enhanced by the gravel road’s uneven surface and frequent closure in the winter. The observation tower atop Kapankaya Peak, which provides a wide-angle view of the surrounding mountains and lakes, is one of the highlights of every trip.
Numerous small mammals, including rabbits and squirrels, as well as a variety of deer, red deer, brown bear, wild boar, lynx, fox, wolf, and otter species can be found in the park. The park, which is home to over 500 different bird species and is situated along a migration line, will excite birdwatchers. With a Forest Ministry permit, fishing is permitted from May to September in a number of lakes that are filled with rainbow trout and salmon.
Several small cafes are located on the park’s outskirts for those seeking local cuisine. Most accommodations are outside the park, with various options near Bolu, including guest stays along the Ankara-Istanbul highway and Mengen, known for its excellent chefs.
The area around Bolu offers many attractions, including Abant Lake, natural mineral bath spas, and historical sites like the 14th-century mosque and the Bolu Archeology and Ethnography Museum. The scenic Abant Lake, 25 miles southwest of Bolu, features swimming beaches, a nature park, and local food vendors. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing for Abant trout, and carriage rides along the lakeshore.
Seven Lakes National Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a serene environment, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery year-round. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, visiting this hidden gem in northern Turkey is a memorable experience.