I can almost hear you saying you're tired of the crowded, bustling holiday resorts of the Aegean and are searching for a quieter, more meaningful corner to soothe your soul. Imagine a place where time has almost stood still in the shade of thousand-year-old olive trees, by the shore of deep blue water. This is Lake Bafa, once a vibrant bay of the Aegean Sea, gently separated from the sea by the alluvium brought by the Büyük Menderes River, and has begun to write its own fairy tale. So, in this land full of legends, what should you add to the top of your Things to Do at Lake Bafa list? Come, let us take you on an unforgettable journey that will both relax your spirit and excite your historical knowledge.

Explore the ancient ruins of Herakleia at the foot of the Beşparmak (Latmos) Mountains

When you arrive at Lake Bafa, the first thing that will greet you is the living proof of how history and the present are intertwined. Here, you don't pass through ticket booths and walk on roped-off paths to visit ancient ruins. Instead, you get lost in the streets of the Ancient City of Herakleia, which is the village of Kapıkırı today. Don't be surprised by a sarcophagus in a villager's garden, a column capital leaning against a house wall, or an ancient theater step that has become a playground for children.   

Start your tour from the heart of the city, the Agora. Even the surviving first floor of this two-story marketplace, once the center of commerce and social life, will make you imagine the hustle and bustle of those days. After seeing the ruins of the nearby Council Building (Bouleuterion), climb up the rocky hill to the Temple of Athena for the real enchanting view. This temple, one of the most elegant structures of the Hellenistic period and quite well-preserved, not only offers you a historical treasure but also lays the most breathtaking view of Lake Bafa at your feet.   

As you wander these lands, don't forget to listen to the whispers of the fantastic rock formations of the Beşparmak Mountains (anciently known as Latmos). According to legend, the Moon Goddess Selene falls in love with the handsome shepherd Endymion, who falls asleep in these mountains. Every night, she glides down from the sky and covers her beloved with her silver light. That's why they say the most beautiful place on earth to watch the moonlight is Lake Bafa.

Taste eel or sea bass at the lakeside fish restaurants

If you're hungry after your journey through the layers of history, Lake Bafa will again offer you a unique experience. A plate you order at the fish restaurants here is not just a meal, but the story of a thousands-of-kilometers journey and a geological miracle. The story of the eel is particularly incredible. These mysterious fish set off from the Saragossa Sea in Mexico to breed, cross oceans, and reach Lake Bafa via the Büyük Menderes River.   

Sit down at one of the rustic yet cozy restaurants by the lake and order yourself some sauced or grilled eel. This fish, which is quite delicious with its high-fat content, also holds a very valuable place in European cuisine. If you are looking for a more familiar taste, you can try the delicious sea bass or mullet, a memento of the lake's past as part of the sea. Complete your feast with appetizers prepared with fragrant olive oil from the village's own olives and fresh Aegean herbs.   

So where to eat? Agora Pansiyon in Kapıkırı Village is not just a local flavor stop but an internationally renowned gastronomic paradise deemed worthy of the Michelin Guide's "Bib Gourmand" category. This family-run business creates wonders with products from their own gardens. For those looking for a more casual setting, Çeri Restaurant is a popular spot, especially for those who want to eat fish. The fresh fish you taste here might encourage you to discover our list of the best fish restaurants in the Aegean.

Photograph the unique reflections on the lake at sunset

As the day slowly comes to an end at Lake Bafa, get ready to witness the lake's most magical moments. As the sun retreats behind the Beşparmak Mountains, it paints the sky in the warmest shades of orange and pink. But the real show begins with the reflection of these colors on the calm waters of the lake. The lake turns into a giant mirror, perfectly reflecting this riot of colors in the sky, the majestic silhouette of the mountains, and the monastery ruins on the small and large islands.

One of the best spots to immortalize this unforgettable moment is undoubtedly the hill where the Temple of Athena, which you visited earlier, is located. The high vantage point allows you to fit the entire lake and the islands into your frame. Another great spot is the Byzantine Castle by the lake. Watching the setting sun from between the historic walls will add a fairy-tale depth to your photos. For a different experience, you can go out on the lake in a small fishing boat. Watching the sunset from the middle of the water, with the silhouettes of the monasteries on the islands in front, is literally enchanting.   

But a little piece of advice: when that moment comes, put your phone and camera aside for a while. Just sit and enjoy the silence, the colors, and the peace. As the last rays of the sun caress the water, perhaps you too will feel the moment when the Moon Goddess Selene is about to appear in the sky to see her beloved shepherd.

While You're Here...

If you want to continue your exploration after being captivated by the magic of Lake Bafa, there are a few other great alternatives waiting for you nearby. The Ancient City of Iasos, a short drive away, is another historical treasure intertwined with the sea in the village of Kıyıkışlacık. It offers a different atmosphere with its temple and agora visible among the fishing boats. For a slightly different experience, you can visit the village of   

Eski Doğanbey (Domatia), a perfectly preserved old Greek village with its stone houses and cobblestone streets. It will take you on a journey through time with its silence and unique architecture.   

Source: If you wish to learn more scientific information about the rich ecosystem and conservation status of Lake Bafa, you can review the official data from the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (https://ekotaban.tarimorman.gov.tr/alan/630).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time to visit Lake Bafa? You can visit Lake Bafa in any season, but the most ideal times for nature walks (trekking) and visiting ancient cities are the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months when the weather is not overwhelming. During these periods, nature is at its most vibrant. Since the summer months can be hot, it is advisable to plan your trip for the early morning or late afternoon hours.   

2. What are the accommodation options around Lake Bafa? The area around Lake Bafa is famous for boutique pensions and village houses that offer authentic experiences intertwined with nature, rather than large luxury hotels. Family-run businesses in Kapıkırı Village, such as Agora Pansiyon, Selenes Pansiyon, and Karia Pansiyon, offer both comfortable accommodation and the opportunity to taste famous local delicacies. Additionally, some establishments have camping areas.   

3. Can you swim in Lake Bafa? Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake Bafa, and you can cool off at spots like the beach of the İkizce Islands. However, the water quality of the lake can sometimes be a concern, especially in the summer months and due to pollution from the Büyük Menderes River. It is best to consult the locals or pension owners for the cleanest and calmest spots for swimming.