Egirdir Lake - Turkey

We’ve left Pamukkale looking for a place “off the beaten track” – initially we wanted to explore along the coast a bit more, but the idea of tourists was just too much. We heard about “this inland lake” and decided to head east.
3 hours on the bus later we arrived in the most beautiful setting. The turquoise waters of Egirdir lake lie 900m above sea level surrounded by the Taurus mountain range (2800m above sea level). It is beautiful…no other words.
In winter time there’s various ski slopes on the mountains, but now it’s pleasantly warm, cooler than the coast though.
The contrast between a gigantic lake and equally massive mountains is breathtaking and there is just no way to put it into words.

To add to the wonderful experience we’ve met an amazing French couple who’ve cycled 5000km across Europe. Probably motivated by the idea, we rented two bikes and headed into the hills surrounding the lake, towards a small village. We unfortunately arrived during prayers and not wanting to intrude we were about to turn around when a family spotted us. They showered us in kindness, bringing fruit – apples, peaches, nectarines and mini-plums (all grown locally) to eat (& take home) and Ayran (yoghurt-drink). Although we could barely understand one another, the interaction was amazing and touched us deeply. Jana’s mastered more Turkish and was a “hit” among the woman. Rachel your phrase book is worth its weight in gold (and more, because it’s so little)

The journey home took us through more orchards and our minds & hearts we’re filled with joys of a Turkish summer. So glad we came here!!