Van Lake (Van Gölü) is a large lake located in the far east of Turkey, near the Iranian border. It is the largest lake in Turkey and the second-largest in the Middle East. The lake is surrounded by mountains, making it a stunningly beautiful and tranquil destination for travelers. From ancient ruins to outdoor activities, there is a lot to see and do in Van Lake. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Van Lake.
1. Visit the Akdamar Island. Akdamar Island is located in the middle of Van Lake and is home to the 10th-century Armenian Church of the Holy Cross. The church is a beautiful example of medieval Armenian architecture, with its intricately carved stone walls and colorful frescoes. The island also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
2. Explore the Van Castle. The Van Castle is a medieval fortress located on the eastern shore of the lake. The castle was built in the 10th century and served as the seat of the medieval Armenian kings. The castle is now home to a museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region.
3. Visit the Van Cat Museum. Located in the city of Van, the Van Cat Museum is dedicated to the famous Van cats, which are a unique breed of cats found only in the region. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including photographs, paintings, and sculptures of the cats.
4. Take a boat tour. There are a variety of boat tours available around Van Lake, ranging from short trips around the lake to multi-day excursions. Many of the boat tours offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife.
5. Go birdwatching. Van Lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers, as it is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes. The lake also offers excellent opportunities for photography, as the birds can often be spotted from the shore.
6. Visit the Hoşap Castle. The Hoşap Castle is a medieval castle located on the western shore of the lake. The castle was built in the 13th century and is now home to a museum, which contains artifacts from the region. The castle also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
7. Go fishing. Fishing is a popular activity in Van Lake, as the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including carp, pike, and trout. Fishing permits can be purchased at the local fish market.
8. Take a hike. There are a variety of hiking trails around Van Lake, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The trails offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife.
9. Visit the Van Museum. The Van Museum is located in the city of Van and houses a collection of artifacts from the region. The museum also contains a variety of exhibits, including photographs, paintings, and sculptures.
10. Try the local cuisine. Van Lake is home to a variety of traditional Turkish dishes, such as kabak çiçeği (zucchini fritters) and köfte (meatballs). The local restaurants offer a variety of dishes, as well as a selection of local wines.
Van Lake is a stunningly beautiful destination, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Van Lake has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to Turkey, be sure to add Van Lake to your itinerary.