Nestled in the Yeşilova district of Burdur, the popular Lake Salda (Salda Gölü), with its white beach, sand dunes and crystal clear water is often likened to the Maldives. In fact, it is so similar, it is known locally as the Saldives.
Lake Salda facts
Lake Salda is set in a tectonic crater composed of a limestone-like structure called stromatolic rocks. These rocks, which are also seen on the surface of Mars, produce magnesium on the surface of the lake.
Stromalite builds upon layers to form rocks
The magnesium is what gives the sand its white colour. The mineral content of the lake also makes it interesting for scientists, as it is believed to be similar to surface lakes found on Mars.
The magnesium gives the sand its white colour
The hydromagnesite mineral found in its coastal waters is believed to offer remedies for certain dermatological diseases. Visitors have reported that their acne or eczema disappears after a week enjoying the mineral-rich waters of the lake.
The sand of Lake Salda has a claylike structure which is also very good for the skin – ideal for a natural mud bath.
The claylike sand is perfect for a natural mud bath
The lake area covers 4,370 hectares, and its depth reaches 196 meters, making it one of the deeper lakes in Turkey, if not the deepest.
The surrounding area has endemic plant and animal species unique to Lake Salda. There are 3 endemic freshwater fish in the lake and boars, foxes rabbits and partridges around the lake.
The lake is home to more than 100 bird species making it a great spot for bird watchers.
Recent protection regulations
Last year, the Environment and Urbanization Ministry declared Lake Salda a ‘Special Environmental Protection Area’. It was declared a first and second-degree Natural Protected Area in 1989.
The coastline of the lake has also been put under protection to prevent the natural and cultural fabric of the area from being damaged.
Thanks to the protection measures taken in and around the lake, the water quality increased to drinking water quality.
Amenities
There are camping facilities and a cafeteria at Doğanbaba Public Beach and Yeşilova Municipality Public Beach.
Doğanbaba Public Beach
Camping is allowed at Doğanbaba Public Beach
There are also a few picnic benches scattered around, but not many other cafés or restaurants so you may want take your own food and drink.
You’re going to want to take a swim in the clear, cool water of the lake but bear in mind, swimming is only allowed at Beyaz Adalar beach, Doğanbaba beach, Yeşilova beach and Tabiat Park.
Beyaz Adalar Beach 
One of the beaches where swimming is allowed
The lake is around 44 km in diameter and not hilly so ideal for a long walk or cycling and enjoying this magical place. There are bicycle rental places around the lake.
Staying longer
If you want to stay longer, there are plenty of hotels and guest houses to choose from.
Hotel Lago Di Salda 
The hotel from the beach
A very special place
“Burdur is known as the region of lakes but Salda carries many different features than the others. It is one of the deepest, clearest and healthiest lakes in the world to swim in. It is one of the five award-winning lakes in Turkey.”
The isolation around the Lake Salda makes it extra special. On approach, it looks like you’re at the beach, but as you get closer you can see it’s an impressive lake in a truly incredible location.
On approach, it looks like you’re at the beach
An impressive lake 
In an incredible location
With its white beaches and turquoise waters there is a tropical vibe you won’t experience anywhere else in Turkey.
Lake Salda is one of the undiscovered gems of Turkey – the perfect place for some time away.
Sources: Wikipedia/Daily Sabah/Hürriyet Daily News
Is this where a Snow ski resort is during the winter,and if yes have you any details of it?
There are a number of ski resorts in Turkey, Lake Salda is home to one of them. Here are links to a couple of articles that may help.
https://www.dailysabah.com/feature/2019/01/15/splendid-lake-salda-now-welcomes-skiers-snowboarders
https://www.fethiyetimes.com/discover-turkey/24662-discover-turkey-visitors-flock-turkeys-ski-resorts.html
Kind regards
Lyn.
Hi, Thanks for the reply,
We have skied, at a few places near to Fethiye and at one beyond Konya,Lake Salda seems very handy for a short break,no pun intended,especially for beginners and improvers ,Do you know if there are plans for organised trips much later on this year and into next,
Many thanks
You’re welcome George.
Lake Salda is ideal for a short break from Fethiye. We don’t have any details about the Ski Centre at the moment however, we will be running a series of articles over the coming weeks about Highland Tourism around Çameli which is 90 minutes away from Lake Salda.
Saklıkent Ski Centre near Antalya is also only a coupe of hours away from Fethiye.
We’re not aware of any organised trips at the moment however, keep an eye on Fethiye Times Travel Club as, although we have suspended excursions at the moment due to COVID-19, we are hoping we can organize some winter excursions.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/FethiyeTimesTravelClub
HI Lyn,
Been to Sakikent a few times,snow is ok . overnight stay at the resort a bit pricey for what was offered,just looking for a change
Might just take a drive to Lake Salda when things settle down
Comments are closed.