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Deniz Lake, set among the mountains north of the Aras Valley in Kars province, draws nature lovers with its turquoise waters, clean air, and rich biodiversity.
The protected lake lies near Cengilli village in the Kagizman district at an altitude of 1,898 meters.
The lake takes on a different appearance throughout the year, as snow covers the surrounding highlands in winter before green slopes and blue waters take over during the warmer months.
Rainfall and melting snow feed the tectonic lake, while reeds and grasslands spread out along parts of its shoreline.
Walking areas around the water also allow visitors to take in the mountain scenery.
Deniz Lake provides a habitat for numerous migratory birds and mirror carp, a variety of common carp known for their large, reflective scales.
Its waters and surrounding vegetation support a diverse natural environment.
Thousands of carp were previously released into the lake under Türkiye’s Inland Waters Fish Stocking Project, carried out by the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Residents of nearby Cengilli village work to protect the lake and prevent damage to its natural structure.
Deniz Lake has also been protected as a registered natural site since 2020.
Visitor Muhammed Tasdemir said the lake was easy to reach and praised its clean air, water, and fish.
“People can come here and recharge their spirits,” he said, describing the area as an appealing destination for camping and spending time in nature.
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