Green Canyon: An Emerald Escape in the Taurus Mountains
Just 12 km from Manavgat and around 75 km east of Antalya, Green Canyon (Turkish: Yeşil Kanyon) is one of the Mediterranean coast's most surprising natural wonders. This vast, jewel-toned reservoir was formed when the Oymapınar Dam was built across the Manavgat River, flooding a steep gorge in the heart of the Taurus Mountains. The result is a serene lake of vivid turquoise water, hemmed in by towering limestone cliffs and dark green pine forest. If the crowded beaches of Side and Antalya have you craving cooler, calmer scenery, this is the place to find it.
Why Visit Green Canyon
The colour is the first thing that takes your breath away. The deep, cold water of the reservoir gives the lake an intense emerald-and-turquoise glow that shifts with the light throughout the day. Narrow inlets wind between the cliffs, opening onto hidden coves where the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle lap of water. It is a landscape made for slowing down.
A different side of the coast
While the beaches buzz with sunbeds and music, Green Canyon offers stillness. The air is fresher up here, scented with pine, and the steep walls keep much of the lake shaded and cool, even in high summer.
What to Do at Green Canyon
- Boat cruise: Drift through the narrow gorges on a relaxed cruise, the cliffs rising dramatically on either side.
- Swimming stops: Most cruises pause in quiet coves so you can dive into the cool, clear water.
- Lakeside trout lunch: Sample fresh-grilled trout at a waterside restaurant, a local speciality.
- Photography: The contrast of turquoise water, pale cliffs and green pines is endlessly photogenic.
- Dam viewpoint: Admire the impressive Oymapınar Dam and panoramic views over the reservoir.
- Nature watching: Keep an eye out for fish and birds along the peaceful shoreline.
Pro tip: Bring a swimsuit, a towel and sun protection, but pack a light layer too - the canyon's shaded waters and mountain breeze can feel cooler than the beach. Mornings offer the calmest water and the best light for photos.
Getting There & Planning Your Visit
Green Canyon lies roughly 12 km inland from Manavgat, an easy drive from the resorts of Side, Manavgat and Kızılot, and about an hour and a quarter from Antalya Airport. The most popular way to experience it is on an organised boat-cruise excursion, which typically combines a scenic drive into the mountains with a leisurely cruise, a swimming stop and a trout lunch by the water. The lake is enjoyable across the warm season, with late spring and early autumn offering pleasant temperatures and quieter waters.
Good to know
Wear comfortable shoes for boarding the boat, carry some cash for snacks or souvenirs, and allow a half or full day so you are never rushing the experience.
Ready to swap the busy shoreline for emerald calm? Browse our Green Canyon boat cruises and Manavgat-area excursions with Seven Tours, and let us handle the transfers, the boat and the lakeside lunch while you simply enjoy one of Turkey's most beautiful hidden lakes.
