Do you ever get tired of the city's noise and endless hustle and wish you could go to a place where time stands still? Well, there's a place you should imagine at those exact moments: Gölyazı, the pearl of Bursa. This tiny fishing village, built on an islet on Lake Uluabat, looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale and will instantly transport you to a different atmosphere. Its ancient name, Apollonia, meaning "City of the God of Light," lives up to its name with its enchanting light. So, what are the things to do in Gölyazı, this historic and peaceful sanctuary? Let's map out an unforgettable day in this corner of paradise, crowned with the pleasure of a sunset.

Walk Across the Historic Bridge to the Islet on Uluabat Lake

When you arrive in Gölyazı, the first thing that greets you and invites you into the village's magical world is the slender, historic bridge connecting the mainland to the islet. This bridge is not just a passage but also your first step away from the modern world and into the embrace of history and tranquility. As you walk, you feel as if you're passing through a time tunnel. On your right and left, fishing boats gliding on the calm waters of the lake whisper that you are witnessing a way of life that has continued for hundreds of years.   

As you cross the bridge and look up, you'll notice the remnants of the city walls that surround the village, bearing traces of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. Although it's a mystery how this island was connected to the mainland in ancient times , today's bridge takes you directly to the heart of the village, to its narrow cobblestone streets. This walk, though it only takes a few minutes, is a symbolic journey that takes you back centuries. Gölyazı, waiting for you at the end of the bridge, is one of the rare places that preserves (https://www.yerelrehber.com/en/city/bursa) its most authentic state.

Have a Tea by the Lake Under the "Weeping Plane Tree"

After crossing the bridge and reaching the village square, you will be greeted by a massive plane tree. This is the living legend of Gölyazı, the 750-year-old "Weeping Plane Tree." The shade of this monumental tree offers not just coolness but also a sad love story. According to legend, during the population exchange years, a Greek girl named Eleni and a Turkish young man named Mehmet used to meet under this tree. When the time for separation came, tragic events led to the two lovers dying here, and since that day, the reddish sap flowing from the tree's trunk has been known as Eleni's tears.   

After hearing this poignant story, sit down at one of the rustic cafes under the tree and order a tea facing the lake. This is where the social life of the village happens. You won't notice how time flies as you watch the conversations of the uncles returning from fishing, the hustle of the aunts mending their nets, and the joy of the children running around. This moment is not about being a tourist; it's about feeling the soul of the place. It makes you think how interesting life is that this great tree, which has witnessed the sorrows of history, is now a peaceful meeting point for people.

Photograph the Colors Reflecting on the Lake, Especially at Sunset

We've arrived at the most magical moment of the day, the climax of this trip. Watching the sunset in Gölyazı is an experience that is hard to describe with words, a fact agreed upon by every visitor. As the sun begins to set, you should take a pleasant 10-minute walk from the Weeping Plane Tree to Zambak Hill. This is the best spot to get a bird's-eye view of the village and Lake Uluabat. This hill, once a Greek cemetery, also contains the ruins of an ancient theater.   

From the hill, the orange, pink, and purple tones of the sky are reflected on the lake's surface like a canvas. The silhouettes of the fishing boats merge with the riot of colors on the water, creating postcard-perfect scenes. This moment is not just a beautiful photograph; it's also proof of how intertwined nature, history, and humanity are. Knowing that Lake Uluabat, the host of this view, is an internationally important wetland protected by the Ramsar Convention adds a deeper meaning to this moment. You understand better at that moment how important it is to protect this unique ecosystem. As you stand on history at Zambak Hill and experience this moment, the sad memories of the population exchange era and the generosity of nature combine to give you an unforgettable memory.

Other Beauties to Discover While You're in Gölyazı

If you want to extend your trip after being captivated by the magic of Gölyazı, other beautiful historic villages of Bursa are waiting for you. You can create a wonderful "Bursa Villages" triangle with Gölyazı as your base.

Trilye: Be sure to visit Trilye, an old Greek fishing town on the Marmara coast surrounded by olive trees. It will take you on a journey through time with its stone houses, historic churches, the Taş Mektep (Stone School), and seaside fish restaurants.   

Cumalıkızık: Located on the slopes of Uludağ and on the UNESCO World Heritage List, this 700-year-old Ottoman village is like a film set with its cobblestone streets and colorful bay-windowed houses. A village breakfast here will add flavor to your trip.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to go to Gölyazı? Although Gölyazı is beautiful in every season, the spring months (April-June) when nature awakens and water lilies bloom, and the autumn months with their pleasant coolness are the most ideal times. Since it can be very crowded on weekends, we recommend choosing weekdays for a quieter experience.   

What to eat in Gölyazı? Since this is a fishing village, you should first and foremost eat fresh pike and catfish caught from Lake Uluabat. You can taste these delicacies at rustic and friendly family-run businesses by the lake. Additionally, gözleme (savory pancakes) made with local herbs is a great option for breakfast or a snack.   

How to get to Gölyazı by public transport? Transportation to Gölyazı from the center of Bursa is quite easy. The 5/G municipal buses departing from the Üniversite or Küçük Sanayi stations of BursaRay will take you directly to the center of Gölyazı in about an hour.   

Source: For more technical information about the ecological importance of Lake Uluabat and its status as a Ramsar site, you can check the publications on wetlands by the T.R. Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.