Ulugöl Nature Park

Ulugöl; a landslide set lake located within the borders of Haruniye village and Süleymaniye village in the district of Gölköy, Ordu province.

Physical characteristics

It has the distinction of being the largest lake in Ordu province. It is situated at an altitude of 1200 m above sea level. The lake has an average depth of 15 m. Three lakes have formed in the landslide area, the largest being Ulugöl. Çepekli Lake and the other small lake are covered with reeds.

It was formed by the filling of the void in the landslide area with water. In 2017, an investigation observed the development of dense aquatic plants in the water. The lake is fed by groundwater and surface water. There is no pollution; it has the characteristic of “very good water,” classified as “class 1” water. Water temperature ranges between 6.6 °C and 22 °C.

Flora and fauna

The lake, where fishing for fish and wild ducks is possible, is completely surrounded by forests. Additionally, there are two small lakes around it that contain various plants.

The lake naturally hosts carp and has been stocked with trout. Angling is practiced. The most commonly observed plant is spike water crowfoot. Near the shore, the plant “denizdili” (Potamogeton natans) is common. Another plant, white water lily (Nymphaea alba), has been introduced from outside the lake.

Mammals around the lake include fox, wolf, wild boar, squirrel and hedgehog; invertebrates include leeches, worms, ants and grasshoppers.

Ulugöl Nature Park

Between the elevations of 1194–1240 m at the Ulugöl site, a 26.56‑hectare area was declared Ulugöl Nature Park in 2009. Within the nature park there are three lakes, the largest covering an area of 7 hectares. The surroundings of the nature park are covered with forest consisting of beech, red alder, hornbeam and maple species. The wild animals in the area consist of wild boar, hare, and poppy species as well as carp and Abant trout. It has been organized by the Ministry of Forestry and Water Works as a camping and picnic area.

Usage

Every year, local administrations organize events in July under the name "Ulugöl Festivals". In the nature park, there are picnic units that meet the needs of day‑time recreation. At the recreation area there are 55 tables, a fountain, a viewing terrace, WC, walking paths and a children's playground. In recent years it has been visited with great interest by domestic and foreign tourists. Tourist accommodation centers exist near Ulugöl. In the district of Gölköy there is a municipality‑owned hotel. There are also tourist hotels in Ordu and the surrounding area.

There are 12 country houses in the park suitable for family‑size accommodation.

Transportation

It is located 74 km from the center of Ordu, all of which is paved. It is 9 km from the center of Gölköy district, situated in the southwest of the district.