Views of Lake Ulubat
Ulubat Lake
Lake Ulubat, Bursa, Turkey
Ulubat Lake - a large shallow lake west of Bursa, known historically as Apoliont. In 1998 the water area was designated a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and is part of the international Living Lakes network.
A mosaic of shallow pools, marshes and reed beds makes Ulubat one of Turkey's key ornithological areas. Thousands of migratory birds stop and nest here, attracting birdwatchers and photographers.
On the northern shore is the village of Golyazi on a small peninsula that used to be an island and is now connected to the mainland by a causeway and bridge. The 19th-century Greek church of St. Panteleimon has been preserved, along with narrow streets and fishing docks; nearby grows the famous Weeping Plane tree. Coastal cafes serve fresh fish and local seasonal dishes.
From Bursa city center to Ulubat is about 30-40 km - a convenient destination for a day trip. Water levels change with the seasons, so the shoreline outline varies. Nature protection rules apply in the area - stay on the trails and do not disturb the birds.
Show More
Show Less
Ulubat Lake - a large shallow lake west of Bursa, known historically as Apoliont. In 1998 the water area was designated a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and is part of the international Living Lakes network.
A mosaic of shallow pools, marshes and reed beds makes Ulubat one of Turkey's key ornithological areas. Thousands of migratory birds stop and nest here, attracting birdwatchers and photographers.
On the northern shore is the village of Golyazi on a small peninsula that used to be an island and is now connected to the mainland by a causeway and bridge. The 19th-century Greek church of St. Panteleimon has been preserved, along with narrow streets and fishing docks; nearby grows the famous Weeping Plane tree. Coastal cafes serve fresh fish and local seasonal dishes.
From Bursa city center to Ulubat is about 30-40 km - a convenient destination for a day trip. Water levels change with the seasons, so the shoreline outline varies. Nature protection rules apply in the area - stay on the trails and do not disturb the birds.
Morning and evening provide the best light for photography and observation.
Golyazi, boats and the best photo spots on Lake Ulubat
The easiest way to get to know the lake is to take a boat trip from Golyazi's waterfront or follow the circular route around the peninsula with short stops at viewpoints. Morning and evening light are especially good for photographing the mirror-like surface and fishing boats.
For birdwatching bring binoculars or a telephoto lens: on the shallows you can often see herons, ducks, terns and pygmy cormorants. Good positions for shooting are the piers and wooden jetties around Golyazi, as well as the coastal fields north of the village.
Nearby is the village of Eskikaraagac on the northern shore of Ulubat - since 2011 it has held the status of a European Stork Village and hosts a spring festival dedicated to these birds. On weekends there are lively fairs and additional boat tours.
How to get there: from Bursa center the road takes 40-45 minutes on highway D575 toward Izmir with a turn to Golyazi; it is most convenient to go by car or with a tour group, and on weekends keep in mind limited parking at the causeway.
Popular Tours
Best tours and travel experiences across the continent
Guided tours, popular attractions, and top-rated hotels across the continent
