In the Çaykara district of Trabzon, at the bottom of a steep, forested valley, Uzungöl is one of the Black Sea's picture-postcard landscapes. Wooden houses, the mosque on the lakeshore and mist rolling down the hills create a fairy-tale scene, especially in autumn when green and gold blend together. In this guide you will find how to explore Uzungöl and the surrounding highlands, the best time to go and how to reach Uzungöl by VIP transfer from Trabzon Airport.
What is Uzungöl like?
Uzungöl ("Long Lake") formed when a landslide blocked the Haldizen stream in the valley; it takes its name from its long, narrow shape. On one side stand wooden hotels and guesthouses, on the shore an elegant mosque, and all around steep slopes covered in spruce and beech forest.
The walking path of about two kilometres around the lake is the best way to get to know Uzungöl. Sip tea from a samovar-style pot at a lakeside café while clouds drift down the slopes.
Things to do in Uzungöl
- Walk around the lake: The flat, easy path is suitable for families with children too.
- Viewpoints: From the hills overlooking the valley you get a bird’s-eye view of the lake and village; the best photos are taken here.
- Trout and local food: Try trout, muhlama (cheese and cornmeal fondue) and Black Sea pide at the lakeside restaurants.
- The upper highlands: Roads up to the highlands above Uzungöl offer a different landscape of village houses and wide meadows.
Village houses and valley views
In the hamlets above the lake you can wander among traditional stone and wooden houses, maize fields and tea gardens. The narrow lanes on the valley slopes are steep and winding; comfortable shoes are a must.
When to visit Uzungöl
Uzungöl is beautiful in every season, but rain is part of the Black Sea; take an umbrella whatever the time of year.
- Autumn (September–November): Misty forests, beech trees turning gold and quieter days; the best season for photos.
- Summer (June–August): The greenest time and highland festivals; also the busiest.
- Spring (April–May): Rushing streams and highland flowers in bloom.
- Winter (December–March): The snowy valley is enchanting; roads can be icy, so going with an experienced driver matters.
On summer weekends and public holidays Uzungöl gets very crowded and hotels fill up. Autumn weekdays are both quiet and the most colourful.
Tips for Uzungöl
- Bring a rain jacket. Black Sea weather changes quickly; a light rain jacket always helps.
- Dress in layers. Because of the altitude, evenings are cool and can be chilly in autumn.
- Make the most of the early hours. As the morning mist lifts the lake is at its most magical and quiet.
- Book your stay in advance. Hotels fill quickly in summer and during holidays.
- Take care on highland roads. Roads up to the highlands are narrow and winding; a driver who knows the area is safer.
- Carry some cash. Small highland cafés may not accept cards.
Highland road conditions and the visiting hours of Sumela Monastery can change with the season; check the latest information before you go.
How to get to Uzungöl: VIP transfer options
The nearest airport to Uzungöl is Trabzon (TZX); Rize-Artvin (RZV) is a good alternative. From the airport the road follows the coast to Of and then climbs the valley on a narrow, winding road. With a VIP transfer we meet you at arrivals and take you and your luggage straight to your hotel; if you like, we can also take you to Sumela and the highlands during your stay.
VIP transfer from the nearest points
Our VIP vehicles
Mercedes Vito VIPUp to 5 passengers · 5 large suitcases · driver and fuel included
VIP SprinterUp to 7 passengers · 7 large suitcases · for groups and plenty of luggageVIP transfer to Uzungöl from other cities
Door-to-door VIP transfers to Uzungöl from Ankara and Istanbul are possible, but the drive is very long. For most travellers, flying to Trabzon and taking a transfer from the airport is the fastest and most comfortable option.
| From | Distance | Time | Current price |
|---|---|---|---|
| AnkaraAnkara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) | 846 km | ~10 h 21 min | Get a price → |
| IstanbulSabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) | 1,121 km | ~13 h 10 min | Get a price → |
| IstanbulIstanbul Airport (IST) | 1,193 km | ~13 h 58 min | Get a price → |
- Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB): A long drive; a full day with breaks.
- Istanbul Airport (IST): We recommend flying to Trabzon and taking a transfer.
When you click Get a price, a window opens with the route already filled in; you see the current estimated price for Vito VIP and Sprinter and can book without leaving the page. Prices are per vehicle and follow the current fuel price; the licensed carrier taking the transfer confirms the final price. During your stay in Uzungöl, choose Private Hire in the booking form for a trip to Sumela, Ayder or Pokut.
Places to see near Uzungöl
- Sumela Monastery: In Maçka, clinging to a sheer cliff in the Altındere Valley; one of the most famous historic sites on the Black Sea.
- Ayder Highland: In the Çamlıhemşin district of Rize, known for its waterfalls, hot spring and wooden houses.
- Pokut Highland: Also in Çamlıhemşin, famous for wooden highland houses that sit above a sea of clouds in the morning.
- Trabzon city centre: Hagia Sophia Mosque, the Atatürk Pavilion and the city view from Boztepe.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Trabzon Airport to Uzungöl?
From Trabzon Airport to Uzungöl it is about 88.6 km; depending on the road it takes between 1 h 11 min and 2 hours.
How many days should I stay in Uzungöl?
A day trip is enough to see the lake; to also see the highlands and Sumela, we recommend 2–3 nights.
When are the autumn colours in Uzungöl?
Beech and other trees usually turn in October; mid-October to early November is the most colourful period.
Can you visit Uzungöl in winter?
Yes, snowy Uzungöl is beautiful. But the road can be icy; a vehicle with winter tyres and a driver who knows the area are important.
Can I fly to Rize-Artvin Airport instead?
Yes. From Rize-Artvin Airport to Uzungöl it is about 109 km and 1 h 40 min.
Ready to see the misty forests of Uzungöl and the Black Sea highlands? Leave the winding roads to us. Plan your transfer now.