Lake Eymir

Description

Lake Eymir is a natural lake south of Ankara, known for its tranquil walking and cycling paths.

Story

When people think of Ankara, most imagine crowded boulevards, official buildings, and a dry steppe landscape. Yet south of the city, tucked along the edge of Gölbaşı, Lake Eymir opens the gate to a completely different world that slows the pace of the capital. Located within the campus lands of Middle East Technical University (METU), the lake has long been a natural retreat where both students and Ankara residents come to breathe. Lake Eymir is not an artificial recreation zone but a true lake that coexists with the surrounding steppe ecosystem. Willows and poplars lean toward the water along its shores, and among the reeds you can spot ducks, coots, and occasionally storks. In spring and autumn, migratory birds choose these waters for a short rest, making it an ideal stop for amateur birdwatchers. The roughly 10‑kilometer road encircling the lake is at the heart of the Eymir experience. Some visitors come out for an early morning run, while others rent a bicycle and ride one or two laps around the lake. The route has gentle slopes in places, offering a suitable track for both beginners and regular athletes. Motor vehicle access is restricted, which largely preserves the quiet atmosphere and clean air. Eymir’s importance in the context of Modern Turkey lies not only in being a leisure area, but also in being considered an early example of planned environmental protection. For many years, METU has tried to preserve the lake and its surroundings through controlled use, preventing bonfires, loud music, and unregulated construction. Visitors can sit in designated lakeside restaurants and tea gardens to enjoy breakfast, eat fish, or simply watch the sunset over a hot glass of tea. On winter days when a light fog covers the water’s surface, walking around the lake offers a special sense of calm; in summer, the cool morning hours are the best time for photography. Lake Eymir is very close to the big city yet far enough from daily rush to offer a brief reconciliation with nature. On days when you feel squeezed between concrete walls in Ankara, this lake—reachable in about half an hour—can make the city look like a completely different place by the time you return.

Visit Tips

• It will be beneficial to make a reservation in advance for renting a bicycle at Eymir Lake, as it is a frequently preferred activity, especially during the summer months.
• Wearing comfortable shoes on the walking paths around the lake will allow you to enjoy nature.
• If you are planning to have a picnic by the lake, don't forget to bring food and drinks with you; the nearby restaurants are limited.
• Visiting the lake in the early hours or in the late afternoon will help you avoid the crowds and enjoy nature in a peaceful atmosphere.

Photos