Haldizen Lakes (Seven Lakes)

Description

Located high in the Haldizen Valley of Çaykara in Trabzon, the Haldizen Lakes (Seven Lakes) are a tranquil natural escape known for their glacial lakes and dramatic mountain scenery.

Story

Haldizen Lakes, locally known more commonly as Yedigöller, are a hidden mountain haven tucked into the upper reaches of the Haldizen Valley in the Çaykara district of Trabzon. As you continue past Uzungöl and climb higher, where forests thin out and rocky slopes begin to dominate, a chain of small glacial lakes appears one after another. Each lies at a different altitude; some are bordered by reeds, others sit starkly among bare rocks. Together they form one of the best-preserved examples of the rugged yet captivating nature of the Eastern Black Sea region. Human settlement in the area is limited, so Haldizen Lakes are not a historical monument in the classical sense but an important part of the local culture shaped by centuries of highland life. In summer, villagers move their herds to nearby pastures and use the meadows around the lakes as grazing land. Traditional highland festivals, the sound of the tulum bagpipe and circles of horon dance bring life to this high geography even on days when the fog lingers between the mountains. Since there is virtually no construction around the lakes, visitors find themselves face to face with an almost untouched landscape. The natural setting was shaped largely by glacial erosion and melting. Massive boulders, steep slopes, patches of snow that can still be seen in mid-summer, and cool mountain winds make the hiking route both impressive and at times demanding. Because the weather can shift within hours from foggy to rainy to sunny, it is essential to come prepared for a mountain trek. For photographers, early morning is ideal; as the fog slowly lifts around the lakes, it creates unique plays of light. Access to Haldizen Lakes is usually via Uzungöl, following unpaved and occasionally rough mountain roads. Along the way, small bridges over streams, forest paths and scattered highland houses turn the journey itself into a memorable part of the experience. After driving up to a certain point, you must continue on foot to reach the lakes, which helps protect the area and keeps it from becoming overcrowded. Visitors quickly realize they are in one of the rare places where they can clearly hear the sounds of nature –wind, water and birds– without the interference of urban noise. In the period of Modern Turkey, with the growth of ecotourism and sustainable tourism practices, Haldizen Lakes have become increasingly known among nature lovers, campers and photographers. Yet the fragility of the ecosystem means that leaving no litter, avoiding damage to vegetation and keeping the waters clean are essential principles. When clouds descend and fog settles over the water, visitors feel both the harshness of the Black Sea mountains and the deep tranquility of this landscape at the same time. Even a short day hike here offers a powerful nature experience that clears the mind and makes the crowds of the city feel very far away.

Visit Tips

• When visiting the Haldizen Lakes, it's best to come early in the morning to capture the best views; during these hours, there are fewer crowds, and you can better feel the tranquility of nature.
• If you are planning to go for a hike, wear suitable hiking boots and take enough water and snacks with you; the area offers challenging trails along with its natural beauty.
• Don't forget to have a picnic around the lakes; however, make sure to avoid littering and harming the local vegetation in order to protect nature.
• For those who love photography, the reflections on the surface of the lakes at sunset offer wonderful shots, so plan to spend time here in the evening as well.

Photos