Ankara, the heart of modern Turkey, is often rightly celebrated for its political significance, grand historical monuments, and bustling urban landscape. Yet, for travellers, there is an equally compelling, quieter identity to discover just beyond the city limits. Moving beyond Ankara’s reputation as a concrete metropolis, the surrounding Anatolian plateau reveals a rich tapestry of natural landscapes—from serene lakes and dense pine forests to vast, otherworldly salt flats—all waiting to be explored.
This geographical contrast offers a perfect invitation for a weekend road trip. The region surrounding Ankara provides ideal terrain for car travellers seeking relaxation, stunning photography opportunities, and a wide array of outdoor activities. Whether you are looking for a quick dash to a lakeside retreat or a full-day expedition to a unique natural phenomenon, having your own vehicle is key to unlocking these hidden gems.
This itinerary focuses on the best natural wonders accessible within a short, comfortable drive. Our journey includes three key destinations: the tranquil Eymir and Mogan Lakes, the therapeutic thermal springs and forests of Soğuksu National Park, and the grand, shimmering expanse of Lake Tuz, ensuring a memorable break from city life.
The quickest and most accessible escapes from the capital lie directly to the south, in the Gölbaşı district. Here, two beautiful lakes provide immediate relief from the urban bustle, making them perfect destinations for a spontaneous half-day trip or an easy first stop on a longer weekend adventure.
Eymir Lake serves as Ankara’s closest natural haven, offering a beautiful stretch of water known for its peaceful atmosphere and notably clean air, a welcome change from the city’s environment. Located just twenty to thirty minutes from the city centre, the lake is easily reached by car, although drivers should be aware that while the surrounding area is generally car-friendly, access to the immediate path around the lake is occasionally restricted. This limitation, however, only enhances the tranquillity for pedestrians and cyclists. The vibe here is firmly dedicated to simple recreation and quiet appreciation of nature.
The trails around the lake are wonderfully suited for gentle physical activities. Visitors frequently spend their mornings or afternoons walking, jogging, or cycling along the perimeter. Bike rentals are readily available for those who wish to cover the distance around the lake without bringing their own gear. Eymir is also a highly rewarding destination for birdwatching, especially during the spring and autumn migration seasons, when the lake acts as a crucial stopover point for numerous bird species. It is a simple, refreshing escape that proves just how close untouched nature is to the capital.
Just a short drive further south, also in the Gölbaşı district, lies Mogan Lake. This body of water is distinctly different from Eymir, offering a larger, more expansive setting with more developed facilities catering to families and groups. The drive from the city centre takes approximately twenty-five to thirty-five minutes, making it an incredibly convenient weekend getaway spot.
Mogan is well-known for being a hub for family picnics, featuring extensive, well-maintained picnic areas that sprawl along the shores. It is also the go-to spot for water sports enthusiasts, providing opportunities for kayaking, paddle boating, and even sailing. The extensive walking trails ensure that those who prefer to remain on dry land can still enjoy long, invigorating hikes with picturesque views.
Numerous lakeside restaurants offer traditional Turkish cuisine and fresh fish, allowing visitors to extend their day trip into a delightful dinner with a serene view. For those interested in photography, a visit in the early morning is highly recommended, as the mist rising over the calm waters creates a captivating and ethereal backdrop. Mogan Lake successfully combines active leisure with peaceful enjoyment of nature.
For travellers seeking elevation, dense forestry, and a therapeutic edge to their excursion, the road north of Ankara leads to the Kızılcahamam district, home to one of Central Anatolia’s most cherished natural retreats.
Soğuksu National Park is a mountainous, forested area that feels a world away from the central Anatolian steppes. It is a sanctuary of deep nature immersion, located approximately one hour and fifteen minutes north of Ankara, offering a substantial but easy drive via well-maintained motorways. The park’s vibe is defined by its rich flora, particularly its dense pine forests, which provide a welcome source of fresh, crisp air.
This is the premier location for serious outdoor pursuits close to the capital. Visitors are encouraged to explore the multitude of marked hiking and trekking trails that wind through the protected landscape. The park also provides designated areas for camping and picnicking, allowing families and friends to spend an entire day, or even a weekend, fully immersed in the natural beauty.
For an added layer of relaxation, the town of Kızılcahamam itself is famed for its natural thermal springs. This allows travellers to combine the physical exertion of a forest hike with a therapeutic wellness break, enjoying the restorative benefits of the mineral-rich natural hot baths before the drive back to the city. This juxtaposition of rugged nature and gentle healing is what makes Soğuksu National Park a unique offering in the Ankara region.
Slightly further afield, or easily accessible as a continuation of the Northern trip, is the tranquil expanse of Çamlıdere Dam Lake. This large reservoir offers a quieter, more remote atmosphere compared to the more active lakes nearer to Ankara. The drive time is roughly one hour and thirty minutes, positioning it as a peaceful retreat far from the usual weekend crowds.
The lake’s appeal lies in its tranquillity and its beautiful waterscapes, which are often framed by rolling, green hills. Activities here are focused on peaceful contemplation and gentle recreation. Relaxing walks along the vast shoreline are highly recommended, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the silence and scale of the water. For those who enjoy angling, fishing is a popular activity in the reservoir. Çamlıdere provides a perfect antidote to the high energy of Ankara, serving as an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy serene, uninterrupted views.
For the ultimate road trip experience and a truly spectacular natural wonder, the journey to Lake Tuz, or Tuz Gölü, is unmissable. Though a longer drive, the destination offers a breathtaking and utterly unique landscape that simply must be seen to be believed.
Lake Tuz is an otherworldly, surreal landscape that constitutes one of the largest salt lakes in the world. It is celebrated for its incredible shallow depth and vast, shimmering white surface. The drive takes approximately one hour and forty-five minutes to two hours from Ankara, depending on which specific access point you choose to visit. Reaching it is an easy and comfortable drive, rewarded by the magnificent sight of the salt flats stretching to the horizon.
The true magic of Lake Tuz lies in its seasonal phenomenon. The best time to visit is during the height of summer, typically from July through September, when the water begins to evaporate. This process reveals a blindingly white, thick crust of salt that covers the lakebed. Walking barefoot across this natural pavement is an unforgettable experience, offering powerful photographic opportunities.
The wide-open space and lack of visual obstruction make it a phenomenal location for capturing both sunset and sunrise, where the horizon meets the brilliant white surface. Furthermore, during certain times of the year, microscopic algae in the water cause the lake to take on a stunning pink or reddish hue, adding another incredible dimension to the landscape and creating a striking colour contrast against the sky.
Beyond its stark geological beauty, Lake Tuz is a critical ecological site. The area is recognised as a vital natural nesting ground for flamingos. Since their presence is seasonal, birdwatching enthusiasts should certainly plan their trip to coincide with the periods when these elegant birds flock to the shallow, brackish waters to feed and nest, providing a breathtaking and colourful wildlife bonus to the already epic journey. The sheer scale and ecological importance of the area cement Lake Tuz as a premier natural destination near Ankara.
Planning your road trip effectively will ensure maximum enjoyment of the region’s diverse natural offerings. A few practical considerations regarding timing and preparation are essential for a smooth journey.
The optimal seasons for exploring the natural sites around Ankara are Spring, from April to June, and Autumn, from September to October. During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities in the national parks and around the lakes. The greenery is at its most vibrant in spring and early summer. However, if Lake Tuz is the main goal, summer is the mandatory season to witness the magnificent, dry white salt crust. Visiting outside of these key times can mean either extreme heat or very cold, damp conditions, so checking the forecast is always advised.
The road infrastructure around Ankara is generally of good quality. Motorways and main roads connecting the capital to destinations like Kızılcahamam and the approaches to Lake Tuz are well-maintained, making for straightforward and comfortable driving. Drivers should always be mindful of local traffic in towns and villages and should ensure their vehicle is prepared for varied distances. The distances covered, while not excessive, make personal transport an indispensable requirement for experiencing the full scope of this itinerary.
Preparation is key for any road trip. Beyond the usual provisions, we recommend packing essentials tailored to this itinerary: robust walking shoes are a must for tackling the forest trails of Soğuksu or walking the salt crust of Lake Tuz. A good camera is indispensable for capturing the striking colours and reflections. While there are restaurants at Mogan Lake and Kızılcahamam, carrying extra water and snacks is crucial for the more remote stops like Çamlıdere and Lake Tuz. Finally, given the intense sunlight reflecting off the salt flats, a high-factor sun cream and sunglasses are non-negotiable for a visit to Tuz Gölü.
These nature escapes collectively showcase a side of Central Anatolia that often goes unnoticed by those who focus solely on Ankara’s political and historical importance. The itinerary offers a refreshing contrast to the density and urban energy of the city, providing diverse opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and wildlife observation.
From the urban lakes perfect for a morning cycle to the dramatic, white plains of the vast salt flat, Ankara is the ideal starting point for discovering Turkey’s inland natural splendour. To explore the diverse natural beauty of the capital and beyond, renting a car is essential. Book your rental car today and discover the wild side of the heart of Turkey.
