Narlıgöl Crater Lake

Narlıgöl is the only crater lake in the Cappadocia region. According to local lore, it was formed when a meteor struck the area, eventually filling with rain and snowmelt to become a lake. However, this theory has not been scientifically confirmed. In the past, the lake was known as “Acı Göl” (Bitter Lake). Despite its fresh and cold waters, the lake supports life, with fish inhabiting its depths.

The lake is approximately 70 to 80 meters deep, has an elevation of 1,371 meters, and covers an area of about 3,000 square meters.

What draws the most attention to Narlıgöl Crater Lake is its heart shape, making it a unique and fascinating natural wonder. The lake is surrounded by several underground cities and fairy chimneys along the valley. Sitting on a hill to enjoy the panoramic view of the lake provides a sense of tranquility and offers breathtaking scenery.

Where Is Narlıgöl Crater Lake?

Narlıgöl Crater Lake is located within the boundaries of Nar Köy in the Çiftlik district of Niğde Province, at the intersection of Nevşehir, Niğde, and Aksaray. It is about 75 kilometers from the center of Niğde. In a sense, Narlıgöl Crater Lake can be considered a continuation of the Ihlara Valley.

Surrounded by mountains and nestled in a depression, the lake does not experience freezing temperatures, and even snow rarely sticks to the ground.

How to Get to Narlıgöl Crater Lake

The lake’s heart shape was first noticed by photographers, and since then, its popularity among tourists has increased significantly. To accommodate the influx of visitors, roads were constructed to improve accessibility, replacing the need for a challenging climb from Aksaray.

While the lake can be visited year-round, summer is the most popular season. If you’re interested in exploring the historical side of the region, it is recommended to travel via Yeşilburç village. This village, like many areas of Cappadocia, is rich in history and was home to Greek communities during the Ottoman era. Visitors can explore ruins of baths, stone mansions, and churches.

Legends of Narlıgöl Crater Lake

Like many fascinating places, Narlıgöl Crater Lake has its share of legends. These stories, though fictional, captivate the imagination and add an air of mystery and allure to the lake. Two prominent legends are associated with Narlıgöl Crater Lake.

According to one tale, the site of Narlıgöl Crater Lake was once a village. One day, a beggar arrived in the village, going door to door asking for money, but no one helped him. Disheartened, he was about to leave when a kind-hearted young bride stopped him and gave him alms. The beggar blessed her, saying, “May God reward you.”

The beggar then gestured for the bride to follow him. After walking about a kilometer out of the village, she turned to look back and saw that the village had vanished, replaced by a lake. Overcome with sorrow, she began to cry, and her tears are said to have formed the warm water source of the lake.

The Second Legend of Narlıgöl Crater Lake

The second legend is more eerie. It tells of a poor family living in a small hut in Sofular, a village in the Gülağaç district. Despite their poverty, the family was happy, and their joy grew when a baby was born. However, the father was called to military service, leaving the mother and child alone.

One stormy winter night, an elderly man with a white beard appeared in the village, going door to door asking for food. Everyone refused him, except for the woman in the hut. She shared her last piece of bread and a glass of water with the stranger.

After eating, the old man told her to take her child and follow him, warning her not to look back at the village. She obeyed but, unable to resist the urge, turned around to take one last look. As she did, water gushed from her chest, and she and her baby turned to stone while the village was submerged underwater.

Visiting Narlıgöl Crater Lake

Narlıgöl Crater Lake is a must-see destination in Cappadocia, offering natural beauty and intriguing legends. Guided tours are available to explore the lake and its surroundings. Whether you enjoy its serene views from above or learn about its captivating stories, Narlıgöl Crater Lake provides a magical experience that leaves a lasting impression.