A landslide-dammed lake ringed by beech and pine forest, declared a nature park in 2014, with easy walking trails, picnic and camping areas and bungalows. The flat lakeside circuit suits relaxed hikers, while side paths climb into the surrounding woods of the Taşova highlands well away from the city.
The Borabay Lake Nature Park Loop is a relaxed lakeside walk encircling a natural reservoir formed by a prehistoric landslide in the Taşova highlands of Amasya province. The park sits at approximately 850 metres elevation, reached by a 61-kilometre drive from Amasya city centre or a 21-kilometre drive from Taşova, on a road that winds through beech and oak forest before descending to the lakeshore. No public transport serves the park; a private car or arranged transfer is the only practical option.
The loop itself covers 4–6 kilometres of flat to gently undulating forest path and cleared lakeside track. The surface alternates between compressed earth, wooden boardwalk sections and gravel access roads between the designated picnic and camping areas. Elevation change is minimal, rarely exceeding 30–40 metres, making it one of the most accessible multi-kilometre trails in Amasya province. Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are sufficient.
Declared a nature park by the Turkish Ministry of Forestry in 2014, Borabay Gölü Tabiat Parkı provides managed facilities including picnic tables, camping platforms, basic bungalows bookable through the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP), and toilet facilities at the main car park and picnic zones. An entrance fee of approximately 40–60 TL per vehicle is charged at the park gate.
The lake supports a diverse forest ecosystem, and the surrounding beech, pine and fir canopy shelters woodpeckers, raptors and a range of forest passerine species. The water surface is calm and reflective, and side paths penetrate the forest for a further 1–2 kilometres east and west of the main loop for those seeking longer walking. The park is a popular destination for Amasya and Samsun families on summer weekends; weekday visits in May or September offer significantly quieter conditions and richer wildlife sightings. Snow can close the access road from December through March.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Boraboy, Taşova district, Amasya province
- Best season
- May-October; autumn for forest colour
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water and a picnic
- Insect repellent
- Light rain layer
- Binoculars for birds and forest wildlife
Location
Borabay Gölü Tabiat Parkı, Boraboy, 05500 Taşova, Amasya, Turkey
40.8036, 36.1536 View on map
Highlights
- Natural landslide-dammed lake at 850 m surrounded by beech, pine and fir forest
- Flat lakeside loop suitable for all fitness levels and young children
- Diverse birdlife including woodpeckers, raptors and forest passerines
- Managed camping and bungalow accommodation inside the park
- Exceptional autumn colours in late September and October
Tips for visiting
- Arrive on a weekday if possible; summer weekends draw large family groups and the car park can fill by 10:00
- Carry insect repellent from late spring through August; the lakeside reeds harbour mosquitoes in warm weather
- Book bungalows in advance through DKMP if planning to stay overnight, particularly in July and August
- Bring a packed lunch as in-park facilities are basic and the nearest village shop is in Boraboy, 2 km from the gate
- Binoculars add value on the eastern shore where the forest meets the water and bird activity is highest
When to visit
May to October is the accessible season, with July and August the busiest months. Late September and early October are ideal for autumn colour and quiet trails; weekday mornings offer the best wildlife sightings.
Accessibility
The main lakeside path is largely flat and partly gravelled, suitable for strollers and visitors with limited mobility. The park car park and adjacent picnic zones are navigable in a manual wheelchair on dry days. The forest side paths involve uneven terrain and are not suitable for wheelchairs.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for the park?
Yes, a per-vehicle fee of approximately 40–60 TL is charged at the park gate. The fee funds maintenance of the trails, picnic areas and facilities inside the nature park.
Can I camp at Borabay Lake?
Designated camping platforms and basic bungalows are available inside the park, bookable through the Turkish General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP). Facilities include toilet blocks and water points near the main picnic areas.
How do I get to Borabay Lake without a car?
No scheduled public transport reaches the park. The nearest town with a dolmuş service is Taşova, about 21 km away; from there a taxi transfer is the only practical option.
Is the trail suitable for young children and elderly visitors?
Yes. The flat lakeside loop with its well-maintained paths suits all ages. There are no steep sections, and picnic areas with benches and toilet facilities are spaced around the circuit.
When is the access road closed due to snow?
The road through the highlands can close from December through March when heavy snowfall occurs. Spring opening depends on conditions; late April through early May is typically safe for access.