Şavşat Karagöl Lake

Şavşat Karagöl is a dark-watered landslide lake set at the heart of Karagöl-Sahara National Park, established in 1994 in the Şavşat district of Artvin. The roughly 3,766-hectare park is made up of two distinct sections, the Karagöl basin and the Sahara plateau, and the lake itself is an elliptical, almost heart-shaped mirror of water hidden at about 1,600 metres elevation among dense spruce and fir forest.

Formation and natural character

Karagöl is a landslide (barrier) lake, formed when water gathered in the hollow left behind by a large rotationally sliding mass of hillside. It covers around five hectares, stretches some 300 metres in length and reaches a depth of 18-20 metres at its deepest point. The lake is thought to take its name ("Black Lake") from its dark, deep waters and the shadow of the surrounding evergreen conifers reflected on its surface. Between December and March the lake freezes over, and the spring thaw raises its level again. The encircling forests shelter bears, wolves, various birds of prey and rich plant life, which is one reason the area is protected for its biodiversity as well as its scenery.

Cultural and touristic value

Şavşat Karagöl is one of the most photographed natural scenes in the Eastern Black Sea; the reflection of golden autumn forest on the still water is the region's signature image. The shoreline is arranged with wooden boardwalks, viewing terraces, bungalows, country restaurants and small rowing boats. Agencies favour Karagöl because a single stop offers walking, photography and a meal or breakfast break, and because its closeness to Şavşat town makes it easy to slot into multi-day Artvin itineraries. The average visit lasts about 1.5-2 hours for the lakeside loop and a break; half a day is advisable if the Sahara plateau is added. On guided tours Karagöl usually sits on the same arm as Şavşat Castle, Sahara plateau and the Cehennem Deresi Canyon in Ardanuç, typically as a second-day stop.

Access, facilities and best time to visit

The lake lies about 25 kilometres north of Şavşat town centre, roughly an hour's drive on a mountain road; the final stretch is narrow and winding, so while coaches can reach the entrance car park, large vehicles require careful driving. There is parking and a managed visitor area at the park gate; entry is ticketed and opening hours are generally 08:00-19:00. The boardwalk is partly suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, but the forest paths are uneven and not fully accessible. The best season is June to October, as the roads are usually closed by snow in winter. Peak season falls in July-August and again in early October when autumn colour is at its height. The best photo spots are the viewing terrace, the far side of the shoreline boardwalk and the early morning hours when a sea of mist forms. Recommended route: breakfast in Şavşat town → the Karagöl lake loop → Sahara plateau → Şavşat Castle on the way back.