Hafik Lake Turkey

"Full of Moskitos and not so beautiful as expected."

outsch

"You may to see"

Ozzy Ozz

"Lake Hafik, also known locally as Büyük Göl or Koçhisar Lake, is a small karst lake located approximately 3 km northwest of the Hafik district of Sivas province in the Central Anatolia Region. The lake is 1,100 meters long, 1,000 meters wide, and covers approximately 80 hectares. Its average depth varies between 2 and 6 meters, and its surface elevation is 1,295 meters. As a gypsum karst lake, it is a rare natural formation in Turkey and is of geological importance. The lake was formed by water accumulating in depressions formed by the erosion of easily soluble gypsum rocks, such as limestone. It is located in a karst basin surrounded by low hills. Because Hafik was known as Koçhisar during the Ottoman period, it was also called Lake Koçhisar, but today the name Hafik Lake is generally used. Hydrographically, Lake Hafik is located within the Kızılırmak basin and is fed by precipitation, groundwater, and karst springs such as Sultanpınarı and Sıtmapınarı. The lake's excess water flows into the Kızılırmak through a river called the "Köy River," making it an open basin and freshwater. However, the lack of irrigation water has negatively impacted the lake's hydrological balance and caused water levels to drop during dry periods. While the lake forms a single body of water during the highest spring months, it can split into three separate basins during late summer droughts.
Lake Hafik is also notable for its biodiversity. It is home to freshwater fish such as mirror, yellow, carp, and black carp, as well as tench, gray mullet, and silverfish. Additionally, as one of Turkey's 135 wetlands, it is an important habitat for bird species such as coots, cranes, ruddy shelducks, wild geese, common goose, pintails, gray ducks, and mallards. In 2006, 80,000 carp fry were released into the lake, increasing its importance for commercial fishing. The lake's surroundings are a popular recreational area for Sivas residents and are frequently used for activities such as picnicking, camping, trekking, pedal boats, angling, and birdwatching. Municipal facilities and restaurants are located along the lakeshore, but the number of facilities is limited.
Archaeologically, Pılır Mound, located on a small island west of Lake Hafik, demonstrates the lake's historical significance. Excavations have identified lake houses built on wooden poles driven into the lake floor. This settlement dates back to the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Early Bronze Ages and is the only example in Turkey of the "Palafit" type lake houses seen in Lake Zurich and other Alpine lakes. This characteristic makes the lake valuable not only as a natural feature but also as an archaeological heritage.
Access to Lake Hafik is quite easy. Located approximately 35-40 km from Sivas city center, the lake is located on the Sivas-Erzincan E-88 highway and is easily found by directional signs. Those wishing to travel by public transport can reach the lake by taking vehicles from the Sivas district bus station heading towards Hafik or Zara. Frequent flights from Sivas to Hafik are available on weekdays and Saturdays, and every two hours on Sundays. Entry is free, and the lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and locals, especially on weekends. Activities such as hiking around the lake, sunset photography, and dolphin rentals are also available. In conclusion, Lake Hafik, with its natural beauty, biodiversity, historical and archaeological significance, is one of Sivas's most important tourist attractions. A must-see destination for both nature and history enthusiasts, the lake offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere."

Tolga Orhanlı