North of Bolu, hidden in dense forest, Yedigöller ("Seven Lakes") turns into one of Turkey's most colourful landscapes in autumn. Beech, hornbeam and oak leaves turn from yellow to orange, red and brown and are reflected in the still water of the lakes. In this guide you will find the best time to see the autumn colours of Yedigöller, how to explore the lakes and how to reach Yedigöller by VIP transfer from Ankara or Istanbul.
What is Yedigöller like?
Declared a national park in 1965, Yedigöller is a chain of lakes dammed by landslides in a forested valley. The lakes are called Büyükgöl, Deringöl, Seringöl, Nazlıgöl, Sazlıgöl, İncegöl and Kurugöl, linked by streams, small waterfalls and forest tracks.
Beech, hornbeam, oak, alder and fir grow together in the surrounding forest. Thanks to this variety, each species takes on a different shade in autumn, and morning mist and reflections on the water make it a favourite with photographers.
Things to do in Yedigöller
- Walk between the lakes: Forest tracks and paths link the lakes for pleasant walks of a few hours.
- Photography: Mist in the first hours of the morning, and in the afternoon sunlight filtering through the leaves.
- Picnic: Stop at the designated picnic areas and always follow the rules on fires.
- Wildlife: If you are lucky, you may see deer and many kinds of birds in the forest.
Bridges and streams between the lakes
The lakes are linked by streams and small waterfalls. Stone and wooden bridges, paths carpeted in yellow leaves and foaming streams offer a new picture at every turn. After rain the paths can be muddy and slippery.
When to visit Yedigöller
The colours usually peak in the last weeks of October and the first week of November; the exact timing shifts by a few days each year depending on rain and temperature.
- Autumn (October–November): The park's most famous season; yellows, oranges and reds.
- Spring (April–May): Fresh green leaves and rushing streams.
- Summer (June–September): Cool forest air; for those who want to avoid the crowds.
- Winter (December–March): Snowy scenery is beautiful, but the road can close because of snow; check conditions before you go.
On autumn weekends the park gets very busy and queues can form on the access road. Weekdays and early mornings are far quieter.
Tips for Yedigöller
- Leave early. For morning mist and a still lake, start early; you also avoid the weekend crowds.
- Dress in layers. The forest is noticeably cooler than the city; bring a rain jacket and a warm layer.
- Wear waterproof shoes. The paths can be covered in leaves and mud.
- Bring food. Facilities in the park are limited; carry snacks and water.
- Respect nature. Take your rubbish with you and do not feed wild animals.
- Combine it with Abant. You can also see Lake Abant on the same day or the next.
Entrance fees, visiting hours and whether the road is open in winter can change; check the latest announcements of Turkey's nature conservation and national parks authority before you go.
How to get to Yedigöller: VIP transfer options
The nearest major airports are Ankara Esenboğa (ESB) and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). The park is reached via Bolu; the last kilometres are a narrow, winding forest road and there is no public transport. That makes Yedigöller one of the places where a chauffeured transfer makes the biggest difference: it picks you up in Ankara or Istanbul, waits while you explore and brings you back the same day.
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 Yedigöller from other cities
Door-to-door VIP transfers are also possible from Istanbul Airport and from cities further away. For journeys over 500 km, flying to Ankara or Istanbul and taking a transfer from there is much faster.
| From | Distance | Time | Current price |
|---|---|---|---|
| IstanbulIstanbul Airport (IST) | 342 km | ~4 h 21 min | Get a price → |
| IzmirIzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) | 677 km | ~7 h 14 min | Get a price → |
| AntalyaAntalya Airport (AYT) | 736 km | ~8 h 58 min | Get a price → |
| AydınKuşadası cruise port | 718 km | ~7 h 45 min | Get a price → |
| MuğlaDalaman Airport (DLM) | 927 km | ~10 h 36 min | Get a price → |
| MuğlaMilas-Bodrum Airport (BJV) | 828 km | ~9 h 19 min | Get a price → |
- Istanbul Airport (IST): From the European side and Istanbul Airport.
- Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB): A long drive; we recommend flying to Ankara or Istanbul 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. To see Yedigöller and Abant on the same day, choose Private Hire in the booking form.
Places to see near Yedigöller
- Lake Abant: A mountain lake south of Bolu with a walking path around it; it also turns golden in autumn.
- Gölcük Nature Park: A small, quiet lake close to Bolu.
- Mudurnu: A historic town with Ottoman-era mansions.
- Bolu cuisine: The home of the famous Mengen cooks; taste Bolu's specialities on the way.
Frequently asked questions
When are the autumn colours in Yedigöller?
The colours usually start in mid-October and peak in the last weeks of October and the first week of November, shifting a few days with rain and temperature.
How long does it take to visit Yedigöller?
Allow at least 3–4 hours to walk around the lakes and take photos. On a day trip from Ankara or Istanbul, set off early in the morning.
How long does it take from Ankara to Yedigöller?
From Ankara Esenboğa Airport to Yedigöller it is about 233 km, around 3 h 2 min.
How long does it take from Istanbul to Yedigöller?
From Sabiha Gökçen Airport it is about 271 km and 3 h 33 min; from Istanbul Airport about 342 km and 4 h 21 min.
Can you visit Yedigöller in winter?
The snowy scenery is beautiful, but the road can close after heavy snow. In winter always check road conditions before you go.
Ready to see the autumn colours of Yedigöller with your own eyes? Leave the road to us. Plan your transfer now.