A small landslide-dammed lake cradled by beech and pine forest, its still surface mirroring the trees, makes a tranquil nature subject especially in autumn when the surrounding woods turn gold and red.
Borabay Lake (Boraboy Gölü) is a small natural lake in Taşova district, approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Amasya city, formed by a landslide that dammed a forested valley. Enclosed by steep slopes of beech, oak and pine that descend almost to the waterline, the lake has an unusually compact, enclosed quality that produces especially vivid reflections. The still surface acts as a near-perfect mirror when wind is absent — a condition most reliably achieved in the early morning hours before convective breezes begin.
The lake is set within a nature park (Tabiat Parkı) managed by the Turkish General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks. There is a small entrance fee (approximately 50 TRY per person as of 2025). A walking circuit of around 2.5 kilometres follows the lakeshore, providing access to multiple vantage points including a small wooden jetty and a promontory at the northern end that gives a clear sightline across the full width of the lake. Compositions from the jetty place a strong horizontal foreground element over the reflection, while the promontory allows a wider view with tree-covered slopes as backdrop.
The prime photography seasons are late May to June, when the forest is in fresh vivid green, and October, when the beech and oak canopy turns amber, copper and deep gold. Autumn is generally considered the finest photography period, with the warm colours reflected in the still water creating a compelling natural abstract. Morning mist sometimes sits on the water surface in autumn, especially after cold clear nights. Early morning visits require some pre-dawn navigation on the approach track; a head torch is useful before the forest path becomes visible in the light.
Drone photography requires SHGM permits and is subject to restrictions within the nature park. Tripod use is unrestricted on the shoreline and jetty. The lake is a popular weekend destination for residents of Amasya and Samsun; arriving before 08:00 on weekdays ensures the cleanest compositions.
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- Wide-angle to standard zoom (16-50mm equivalent), Tripod for low-light reflections, Polarizing filter for water and foliage, Telephoto for forest detail
Location
Borabay Gölü Tabiat Parkı, Boraboy, 05500 Taşova, Amasya, Turkey
40.8036, 36.1536 View on map
Highlights
- Autumn colour reflections in still lake water — amber, copper and gold beech foliage mirrored precisely
- Morning mist on the water surface in October for atmospheric lake scenes
- Wooden jetty foreground element in full-colour reflection compositions
- Vivid green spring canopy reflections in late May and June
- Northern promontory viewpoint giving a full-width lake view framed by forest slopes on three sides
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before sunrise in October for mist on the water before it lifts — mist typically disperses within an hour of sunrise
- The lake surface is calmest in the early morning before convective breezes start, usually by 09:00–10:00
- A tripod and remote shutter are essential for low-light reflection shots before and after sunrise
- A polarising filter reduces scattered-sky reflection on the surface to deepen the forest colour in the mirror
- Walk the full 2.5 km shore circuit before choosing a position — the northern promontory often gives the cleanest forest-reflection view
When to visit
October for peak autumn colour reflections; late May–June for vivid green canopy. Early morning before 08:00 for still water and possible mist on the surface.
Accessibility
The lake is reached by car via an approach track in Taşova district. The shoreline walking circuit is a forest path of approximately 2.5 kilometres with uneven terrain and tree roots; it is not wheelchair-accessible. The wooden jetty is level and accessible from the main parking area on a short flat path.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee for Borabay Lake?
Yes, the Borabay Gölü Tabiat Parkı charges an entrance fee of approximately 50 TRY per person (2025). The fee covers use of the walking trail, picnic areas and lakeside facilities. Confirm current pricing on arrival.
How far is Borabay Lake from Amasya city?
The lake is approximately 50 kilometres northeast of Amasya city in Taşova district, roughly a one-hour drive. Public transport is limited; a taxi or rental car is the most practical way to reach the lake.
What is the best month to photograph the autumn reflections?
October is generally the peak month for autumn colour, with the beech and oak canopy at maximum colour saturation typically in the second and third weeks of the month. The exact timing varies by year.
Are tripods permitted on the jetty and shoreline?
Tripods are generally permitted on the wooden jetty and along the shoreline within the park. There are no specific restrictions, but it is courteous to allow other visitors to pass when the jetty is busy.
Is drone photography allowed at the lake?
Drone use in the nature park is subject to Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (SHGM) regulations and may require specific permits for both recreational and commercial use. Inquire with park management before flying.