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Şarkikaraağaç, Yenişarbademli and Aksu 2026Lake Beyşehir, Kızıldağ, Dedegöl and Zindan Cave
Eastern Isparta's Şarkikaraağaç, Yenişarbademli and Aksu districts encompass varied Lakes Region landscapes: Kızıldağ's forests, Lake Beyşehir's shores, Mount Dedegöl, Melikler Plateau and Zindan Cave.
This is a journey through mountains, woodland and villages, suited to nature, camping, walking and cave enthusiasts. A car and a clear plan are important: distances are substantial and services limited outside district centres.
Şarkikaraağaç and Kızıldağ National ParkŞarkikaraağaç lies north of Lake Beyşehir, amid farmland, uplands and forests. Kızıldağ National Park is its main natural attraction, with cedar, juniper and pine in a quiet mountain setting.
The park offers areas for walking, picnicking and resting, although facilities vary with season and maintenance. Arrive in daylight and identify the entrance and parking areas before taking minor roads.
- Explore the cedar woodland.
Follow clear established trails.
Use permitted seating and picnic areas.
Photograph forests and uplands.
View Lake Beyşehir from higher ground.
Follow fire restrictions, especially in summer. Take rubbish away and keep vehicles on authorised roads.
Lake Beyşehir's western shoreParts of the western shoreline lie within Isparta province. Nearby villages provide broad views of water, mountains and distant islands.
Not every stretch is a developed visitor beach. Some land is agricultural, privately owned or environmentally sensitive. Use established access points and seek permission before entering tracks or grazing land.
Morning and sunset can be particularly attractive for photography, and birds add interest. Fishing and boating are governed by local regulations and seasons; check the applicable rules before taking part.
Yenişarbademli: the gateway to DedegölYenişarbademli lies near Lake Beyşehir at the foot of the Western Taurus Mountains, providing access towards Dedegöl, Melikler Plateau and Pınargözü Cave.
The small, quiet town supplies basic needs, but has fewer accommodation and restaurant options than Isparta or Eğirdir. Buy supplies and refuel before heading into the mountains.
Nights can be cold even in summer. Altitude and surrounding peaks also mean that weather conditions can change quickly.
Mount DedegölRising to approximately 3,000 metres, Dedegöl is Isparta's highest mountain and a well-known Western Taurus destination for climbing and mountain walking.
A summit ascent requires fitness, experience and suitable equipment. Go with a qualified mountain guide or experienced club. Snow and cold conditions may persist high up even when temperatures are mild in nearby towns.
Visitors seeking a gentler outing can enjoy the mountain from plateaux and lower areas without attempting the summit.
Melikler PlateauMelikler Plateau, at Dedegöl's foot, is a popular camping area and starting point for mountain routes, known for its trees, cool air and clear night skies.
Camping and fire permissions depend on season and fire risk. Check local instructions before pitching a tent.
- Use established areas where camping is currently permitted.
Light fires only where expressly authorised.
Bring sufficient food and water.
Prepare for lower overnight temperatures.
Carry out all waste.
Avoid relying entirely on mobile reception.
Pınargözü CavePınargözü Cave near Yenişarbademli is known for its long passages, cold water and complex structure. Its depths are not an equipped show cave open to unrestricted sightseeing.
The entrance area and surrounding landscape can be viewed from authorised places. Entry and exploration require specialist experience, equipment, permits and organisation.
Flowing water, low temperatures and narrow passages make unplanned entry dangerous. Arrange any exploration through a properly equipped specialist team.
Aksu and its mountain settingAksu lies in mountainous country associated with the Anamas uplands and Köprüçay valley. Forests, springs and small villages make it a possible stop between Eğirdir and Yenişarbademli.
Tourism services are limited, but the area offers road trips, photography and nature stops. Avoid remote roads after heavy rain or during snow without an appropriate vehicle and current information.
Zindan CaveNear Aksu, Zindan Cave is one of the district's notable natural and historical sites. A visitor route leads inside to rock formations and groundwater features.
The floor can be damp and slippery, and temperatures appreciably cooler than outside. Wear footwear with good grip and carry a light jacket even in summer.
Confirm that the cave is open and check admission times before travelling. High water, maintenance or weather can bring temporary closure.
Who will enjoy this route?- Visitors who enjoy quiet forests and nature.
- Campers using authorised sites.
- Experienced walkers and mountain climbers.
- Lake and mountain photographers.
Travellers seeking rural roads and outlying villages.
For a wider choice of hotels, restaurants and regular transport, use Eğirdir or Isparta as your accommodation base and visit the area during daylight.
Getting aroundA car is the practical choice because sites are dispersed and public transport between villages and plateaux is limited. Some mountain roads are narrow and winding.
Refuel before heading into the mountains.- Save maps and locations for use without a signal.
Check road and weather conditions.
Avoid rural night driving.
Do not take an unsuitable vehicle onto an unfamiliar unpaved road.
A suggested two-day route- Day one: Şarkikaraağaç, Kızıldağ National Park and viewpoints along Lake Beyşehir.
- Day two: Aksu and Zindan Cave, followed by Yenişarbademli, Melikler Plateau and views of Dedegöl.
Allow two days rather than trying to include every site in one. Mountain roads, distances and scenic stops all take time.
Practical tips- Confirm Zindan Cave is open before travelling.
- Do not enter Pınargözü's depths without a specialist team.
- Attempt Dedegöl's summit only with suitable experience and equipment.
- Observe camping and fire restrictions in natural areas.
- Carry warm clothing and reserve food and water.
- Tell someone your route when visiting remote areas.
Planning your visitŞarkikaraağaç, Yenişarbademli and Aksu combine Lake Beyşehir, Kızıldağ forests, Dedegöl, Melikler Plateau and Zindan Cave in a varied exploration of eastern Isparta.
The journey needs a car, preparation and respect for conservation and safety rules. It particularly suits travellers who enjoy mountains, forests, caves and quieter surroundings.
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