Uzungöl Day Tour Guide: Lake, Tea & Plateau 2026

Quick answer: Yes, an Uzungöl day tour is one of the most popular excursions from Trabzon. The 99km journey takes about 1.5-2 hours each way, winding through stunning tea plantations. A full day allows you to walk the lake, enjoy the iconic views, and even visit a local tea factory. What is Uzungöl? An Alpine Escape in the Black Sea Nestled in a lush, steep-sided valley in the Pontic Mountains, Uzungöl (literally "Long Lake") is the Black Sea region's postcard-perfect alpine jewel. What began as a landslip damming the Haldizen Stream has become one of Turkey's most iconic landscapes. The serene lake, with its slender minarets of the Uzungöl Mosque piercing the sky at its edge, creates a scene more reminiscent of Switzerland or Austria than what many visitors imagine Turkey to be. Located in the Çaykara district of Trabzon province, Uzungöl is more than just a lake. It's the heart of a vibrant highland culture. The surrounding slopes are carpeted with dense spruce forests and, famously, the tea plantations that define Turkey's Black Sea coast. The air is crisp, the scenery is breathtakingly green, and the frequent blankets of fog add a layer of mystery and magic to the experience. For travellers exploring the region, a day trip here is an essential part of any Trabzon tour itinerary. As a TURSAB-licensed guide, I've brought countless guests here over the years. The gasp of wonder when they first see the valley unfold is a moment I cherish. It's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Turkey's northern coast. How to Get to Uzungöl from Trabzon Uzungöl is conveniently accessible from Trabzon, the main hub of the Eastern Black Sea region. The journey itself is a key part of the experience. By Private Tour: This is by far the most comfortable and efficient way to experience an Uzungöl day tour . You'll have a dedicated vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide. The journey from Trabzon city center or Trabzon Airport (TZX) is approximately 99 kilometers (62 miles) and tak