Located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, Lake Bafa is the perfect escape for nature lovers. Home to many civilisations for thousands of years, this place offers its visitors both the generosity of nature and the tranquil whispers of ancient times. So, where is Bafa Lake and how to get there? What to do in Lake Bafa?
Here is the Bafa Lake travel guide!
Lake Bafa is located within the borders of Muğla province. Lake Bafa, the largest in the Aegean Region, is in the southeastern part of the Büyük Menderes River delta. Lake Bafa, a shallow freshwater lake in the Menteşe Mountains, is officially a natural wonder.
Lake Bafa was shaped by geological and historical processes. In ancient times, the Soke Plain was actually a sea. There was a big gulf in this area. The alluvium brought by the Büyük Menderes River filled the gulf over time. Over the years, this area became a plain.
Lake Bafa remained a part of the sea. This process allowed the living life around the lake to diversify, and many species to live here.
For centuries, Lake Bafa and its surroundings were the centre of many ancient civilisations. Civilisations such as Lydia, Persia, Rome and Byzantium took advantage of the rich nature and strategic location of the region. Many monuments built during these times can still be seen around the lake today!
The rich biodiversity of Lake Bafa makes environmental protection efforts inevitable. The lake was declared a Natural Park in 1994 and placed under protection. In addition to 65 bird species, it is also the habitat of birds such as flamingos and pelicans, which are rare and protected species.
Along with its natural life, the historical buildings around Lake Bafa are also under protection. Environmental regulations ensure the protection of natural and cultural heritage and attract tourists to visit the region. Nature walks, bird watching and visits to historical sites in and around the lake are part of the sustainable tourism approach.
The surroundings of Lake Bafa are also home to mythological stories. The lake is known for being close to Mount Latmos and this mountain has an important place in Ancient Greek mythology. At the summit of the mountain, Selene, the goddess of love, is said to have fallen in love with the beautiful shepherd Endymion.
The story that Selene made Endymion immortal by lulling him into an eternal sleep is popular among visitors to the region. These mythological connections increase the touristic appeal of Lake Bafa and its surroundings and offer visitors a journey to prehistoric times.
Located on the shores of Lake Bafa, Kapıkırı Village was built on the ruins of the ancient city of Herakleia. This is a unique stopping point for history and nature lovers. This small village offers the ruins of the ancient city and the history it lived there.
The ancient city of Herakleia was one of the most important settlements of ancient times. Today, the monumental buildings, gates, tombs and walls of this city can still be seen. These ruins make visitors feel the magnificent architecture and lifestyle of the ancient period.
There are various accommodation options around Lake Bafa. There are authentic hostels, campsites and small hotels that offer visitors the natural beauty and tranquillity of Lake Bafa. These facilities offer guests an experience intertwined with nature.
In addition to its rich natural life, Lake Bafa is also known for its local cuisine. Restaurants serving the original flavours of the Aegean offer a variety of seafood and olive oil dishes. We especially recommend that you taste the fish varieties in the region.
Lake Bafa is located in the Milas district of Muğla, southwestern Turkey. The lake is approximately 30 kilometres from Milas-Bodrum Airport. You can fly to Milas-Bodrum Airport by air from big cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, and then reach the lake by road.
The lake is 90 km from Muğla city centre and approximately 150 km from Izmir. You can reach Lake Bafa with your own car or by buses and minibuses.