Tandem Paragliding In Uzungol

Uzungöl Lake and Village

Uzungöl, meaning 'long lake', lies at about 1,100 metres in a narrow valley of the Çaykara district, surrounded by steep slopes of spruce and pine. The lake formed when a landslide dammed the Haldizen stream, and today its calm water reflects the wooden chalets, the lakeside mosque and the mountains that close the valley on every side.

It is the best-loved highland destination of the eastern Black Sea, with a lakeside path, small fish restaurants serving fresh trout, and viewpoints above the village. Is Uzungöl worth visiting? Yes, especially early in the morning, when mist hangs over the water and the valley is still quiet; the 09:00 flight catches exactly that light.

Getting from Trabzon to Uzungöl

Uzungöl is about 100 km southeast of Trabzon city, roughly a two-hour drive along the Black Sea coast to Of and then inland up the valley past tea gardens and villages. If you are asking how to get to Uzungöl from Trabzon, rental cars, taxis and daily minibuses all run the route; travel to Uzungöl is not included in this activity.

Many visitors make it an Uzungöl day trip from Trabzon or stay a night in one of the lakeside hotels so they can be at the meeting point comfortably before 09:00. Our team can advise on timing when we confirm your booking, so you arrive relaxed and on time.

The Take-off Point Above the Valley

From the meeting point in the village, the team drives you up a mountain road to the take-off point on the slopes above the lake. Here your pilot explains the take-off and landing, fits your harness and helmet, and checks the wind. The briefing is calm and clear, and you can ask anything before the flight.

Take-off needs only a few steps of running together with your pilot until the wing lifts you off the slope. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the ground can be damp and grassy. Morning air in the highlands is fresh even in summer, so bring a light jacket; it is cooler on the mountain than by the lake.

Flying over Uzungöl

Once airborne, the whole valley opens up beneath you: the long ribbon of the lake, the minaret and rooftops of the village, the river winding through the meadows and the dark green forests climbing towards the high pastures. The pilot circles gently so you can enjoy every angle, and records the flight with photos and video for you.

Flights usually last around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the wind, before a gentle landing near the lake. The best time to visit Uzungöl for paragliding is from May to October, when the roads are clear and the weather is most stable; autumn adds golden colours to the forest. Flights depend on the weather and may be rescheduled if conditions are not safe.