Solhan and the Floating Islands 2026: Location, Landscape and Visiting

عاشق الأناضول · Oct 3, 2026

The floating islands in their natural lake in Solhan district.

Bingöl's floating islands are one of its most distinctive sights: small masses of earth and vegetation that move independently across the water. In Solhan district, they suit a quiet nature stop rather than an activity-filled programme. View the lake from an accessible spot and allow time to observe the scene; movement can be slow and there is no organised display.

Finding the Right Place

The islands lie on Lake Turna, also called Turnalar, at Aksakal hamlet in Hazarşah village, Solhan district. Save Yüzen Adalar together with Hazarşah when searching to distinguish the site from similarly named places. The distance from Bingöl is commonly given as approximately 45 kilometres. Check your chosen route, as travel time depends on your starting point, traffic and road conditions.

What Makes an Island Float?

The site has three islands that move independently, their soil bound together by plant roots. One bears small trees, while high ground surrounds the lake on three sides. Observe the relationship between vegetation and water to understand these floating masses. Movement may be gradual, with little obvious change over a few minutes.

Watching and Photographing from the Shore

Begin with a view of the whole lake and its setting, then use your lens to explore plants and details without crossing barriers. Remain off the islands and allow them to move naturally, following the site's instructions. Keep your phone or camera ready from a secure position and supervise children near the water, especially while taking photographs.

The floating islands' surroundings and their plant cover.

Making Use of Available Facilities

Site descriptions mention picnic and rest areas and a viewing platform. Use the facilities actually open during your visit and ask about any activity requiring permission or supervision. Confirm camping arrangements before making them part of the plan. Bring water and a light snack for a longer outing, taking all litter away afterwards.

Fitting the Lake into Your Day

From Bingöl, make the lake your main stop, then add time for food or a visit to Solhan as the route allows. If travelling between Bingöl and Muş, include the detour from the main road and back in your schedule. Arrange transport beforehand, particularly without a car, and confirm both the site's drop-off point and the return service.

Before Setting Off

Check the weather and visitor-area opening arrangements. Visit in daylight to see the ground around the lake clearly, taking suitable footwear and an extra layer for cold or wind. Leave enough time to return. A short family visit with a break, or a photographer's quiet wait and change of viewpoint, allows you to enjoy the landscape while protecting its character and other visitors' experience.

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Solhan and the Floating Islands 2026: Location, Landscape and Visiting

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