Things To Do
in Uzungöz

Uzungöl, Turkey, is a picturesque village nestled in the stunning mountains of the Black Sea region. Known for its breathtaking lake surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, it offers a serene escape for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities and immerse themselves in the local culture.

With its rich flora and fauna, Uzungöl is a perfect destination for photography, hiking, and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Uzungöl
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, followed by a walk around Uzungöl Lake to soak in the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Uzungöl Nature Park for hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities, and enjoy a picnic by the lake.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Turkish restaurant, sampling regional specialties, before taking a leisurely stroll under the stars.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Explore the nearby wooden mosques and local architecture, learning about the history and culture of the region.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea plantation to see how tea is grown and processed, followed by tasting fresh brews.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Turkish tea at a local café, mingling with residents and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Cup of Turkish tea$1.50
🚕Taxi ride within Uzungöl$3
🏨Night in a guesthouse$30
🛒Grocery shopping (per week)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and landscapes.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Variety of outdoor activities available year-round.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-Turkish speakers.
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?
  • "Evet/Hayır" - Yes/No

Places to Visit in Uzungöz

Visit one of these nice places.

Uzungöl Lake

The centerpiece of Uzungöl, the lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and is perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.

Çamlıhemşin Valley

A short drive from Uzungöl, this valley offers lush landscapes and traditional wooden houses, great for capturing rural life.

Local Tea Plantations

Rolling hills adorned with tea bushes provide a stunning backdrop, especially in the early morning light.

Culinary Guide

Food in Uzungöz

Uzungöl's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Turkish dishes and local Black Sea specialties, making it a gastronomic haven for food lovers.

Uzungöz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mıhlama

A traditional Black Sea dish made from melted cheese, butter, and cornmeal, often enjoyed as a breakfast item.

Must-Try!

Hamsi Tava

Fried anchovies that are a staple in the Black Sea region, typically served with onion and lemon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Uzungöl Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling roasted corn and simit (sesame-encrusted bread), ideal for a quick snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Uzungöl experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cold, snowy winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in autumn and spring. The area is often enveloped in fog, particularly in the mornings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Traditions

Visitors should show respect for local customs, especially in religious sites.

Dress Code

Modest clothing is appreciated, particularly when visiting mosques or rural areas.

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a nod is common; addressing individuals with 'Bey' for men and 'Hanım' for women is respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Uzungöl is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night are advised. In rural areas, be cautious of wildlife and take care while hiking on uneven terrain.

Tipping in Uzungöz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants, and rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, with lush green landscapes and plenty of festivals, but can be crowded.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning foliage, perfect for photography, and the weather remains pleasant.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, transforming Uzungöl into a winter wonderland, though some attractions may be less accessible.

Nightlife Guide

Uzungöz at Night

Uzungöl offers a laid-back nightlife scene primarily focused on cozy cafes and restaurants, with some venues featuring live music. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it ideal for enjoying traditional tea or local wines while mingling with other visitors and locals. There are fewer bars, but the surrounding towns may have more lively options for those seeking nightlife.

Hiking in Uzungöz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kuş Cenneti Trail

A scenic trail that leads through lush forests and offers incredible bird watching opportunities.

Haldizen Valley Trail

A moderately challenging trail that provides breathtaking views of the valley and is ideal for more experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Uzungöz by plane.

Trabzon Airport

Located approximately 90 kilometers from Uzungöl, Trabzon Airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Uzungöl is quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly paths around the lake and into the village center. Most attractions are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some hiking trails may require transportation to reach starting points.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, particularly tea and hazelnut cultivation, which influences the local economy.

Tourists

Uzungöl attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists, especially during the summer and fall months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Turkey, and you can find locals playing in fields around Uzungöl.

Hiking

The diverse terrain and beautiful landscapes make hiking a favored sport among residents and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Uzungöl is generally light, with most visitors relying on cars or buses to get around. Public transportation options include minibuses that connect Uzungöl with nearby towns. Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous areas, so caution is advised when driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Uzungöz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advised to confirm with the chef.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, so those with celiac disease should plan accordingly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Uzungöl are basic, with a small clinic available for minor injuries and illnesses. For more serious medical needs, the nearest hospital is located in Trabzon, about 100 kilometers away. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide