Known as the "flower garden" of Türkiye, Isparta has become a popular eco-tourism destination with vibrant rose gardens and lavender fields. The area's floral scents and natural wonders make it a must-see, along with its sports activities, cuisine, and gardens. Isparta also features part of Türkiye's famous Lake District, ranked among the "50 Best Places to Travel to in 2023."

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia - June 19, 2024 - PRLog -- The Land of Roses and Lavender

Isparta is Türkiye's rose center, producing 65% of the world's rose oil. The region produces edible products like rose delight and rose jam, and cosmetics such as rose water, oil, perfumes, and creams. The annual rose harvest in May and June is a celebrated event.

In addition to roses, Isparta is known for its lavender production, with Kuyucak village producing 90% of Türkiye's lavender. After harvesting, lavender is transformed into creams, soaps, oils, and colognes. The lavender harvest begins in late July and lasts until mid-August.

Shining Star of the Lakes Region

Beyond its gardens, Isparta boasts much of the Lakes Region in the Mediterranean Basin. Visitors can explore Eğirdir, the largest lake in the region, and Kovada, set in a national park. Eğirdir, a "CittaSlow" city, offers activities like walking, cycling, boat tours, and dining on fresh fish. The lake features Can Island for camping and Yeşil Island, known for the Aya Stefanos Church. Historic sites include Eğirdir Castle from the Eastern Roman period and the 800-year-old Hızırbey Mosque. Kovada National Park attracts nature photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and campers with its unique flora and fauna.

Trekking Adventures amid History and Nature

The Lakes Region features several ancient cities accessible by hiking trails. The Saint Paul and Pisidia trails traverse archaeological sites in Isparta, with the Saint Paul Trail stretching from Perge in Antalya through Yazılı Canyon in Isparta. The canyon, known for its temples and rock inscriptions, offers rock climbing and rafting on the Göksu River. The trail also passes through the ancient city of Adada and the Eğirdir and Yalvaç districts, ending at Pisidia Antiocheia.

In Adada, visitors can explore the Temple of Trajan and Zeus Megistos-Serapis, while Pisidia Antiocheia features the Temple of Augustus, Roman Baths, and the Monumental Fountain. Yalvaç, a member of the CittaSlow network, offers traditional dishes like Yalvaç hamursuzu and Yalvaç güllacı. Findings from the ancient city are exhibited in the Yalvaç Museum.

The Pisidia trail also includes Sagalassos Ancient City in Burdur's Ağlasun district, known for the 1,800-year-old Antonine Fountain. Additionally, visitors can explore Köprülü Canyon in Antalya and Selge within the National Park, as well as Termessos, one of Türkiye's best-preserved ancient cities.