Caykara 3-Day Itinerary

A stone fountain built in memory of local soldiers who died in the Gallipoli campaign. Simple and unassuming, but locals still draw water here and chat on the benches nearby.

🕐 24 hours

💡 The water is drinkable and cold — fill your bottle. Ask an older resident about the names carved on the plaque; many remember family stories.

A small, whitewashed mosque with a wooden minaret dating from the late 19th century. The interior has painted floral motifs above the mihrab and a quiet courtyard with a mulberry tree.

🕐 Daily, 5am–10pm (closed briefly during prayers)

💡 Remove shoes before entering. Non-Muslims are welcome outside prayer times — best between 10am and 11:30am, or just after afternoon prayer.

Ay Meydanı Otel Cafe Restaurant · ££

A lively weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, home-made cheese, honey, and textiles. The banter and haggling are genuine — this isn't a tourist setup.

🕐 Saturdays 8am–2pm

💡 Look for the women selling butter and cream near the back entrance. Their prices are lower and the quality is better.

A natural lake set against steep, forested hills. Walk the paved path around the water, watch for trout in the shallows, or just sit on the grass and take in the view.

🕐 24 hours

💡 Go early on a weekday before crowds arrive — the lake is calmest before 9am. Parking costs 10-20 TL.

A high-altitude meadow dotted with small lakes, accessible by a rough dirt road. Wildflowers in June, cowbells in July. Bring sturdy shoes and a packed lunch.

💡 The road is tricky after rain — a 4x4 is advisable. No facilities up there, so take all you need and carry out your rubbish.