Gölyazı, once known as Apollonia ad Rhyndacum, is linked to the mainland by a narrow bridge extending into Lake Uluabat. This former Greek fishing village in Bursa’s Nilüfer district is known for its historic houses, colourful boats, pelicans and sunsets. Rising spring waters sometimes submerge trees and streets, giving it the nickname “Little Venice”.
Featured Buildings and Travel Points in Gölyazı
Weeping Plane Tree (800 Year Old Plane Tree)
This huge tree, located right at the beginning of the bridge connecting the village to the land and known as the "Weeping Plane Tree" because resin/water naturally leaks from its trunk, is the symbol of the village. You can sit by the lake under the shade of its huge branches and enjoy tea.
St. Panteleimon Church and Historical Greek Houses
St. Panteleimon Church, built in the 19th century and transformed into a cultural centre with a successful restoration, is one of the most beautiful examples of Greek architecture. While walking through the narrow streets of the village, you can examine the wooden and adobe historical Greek houses.
Lake Tour (Traditional Fishing Boat Trip)
A must for visiting Gölyazı is the Uluabat Lake tour with the colourful boats of local fishermen. When the lotus flowers bloom in the spring, floating among the flooded forest and water lily fields offers an unforgettable experience.
Zambak Tepe (Sunset Viewpoint)
Located on the hill just behind the village, Zambak Hill hosts grave ruins from ancient times. This hill, which has a bird's eye view of the entire Gölyazı peninsula and Uluabat Lake, is the spot to watch the most impressive sunset view in Bursa.
Transportation from Hotel:
Accessibility:
Parking:
Visiting Hours:
Recommended Duration:
Food & Beverage Facilities:
Lakeside Fish Restaurants: Authentic fish restaurants on the lake shore are famous, serving fresh pike and catfish caught from Uluabat Lake.
Village Breakfast & Gözleme: There are opportunities for a mixed village breakfast and freshly baked pancakes under Ağlayan Çınar and in the mansions by the lake.
Please contact reception for travel details, visiting hours and further information.
Don't Leave Without Doing:
Take a Lake Tour with a Fishing Boat: Take photos of the peninsula and lotus flowers from the lake by boarding one of the colourful motor boats.
Watch the Sunset at Zambak Tepe: Watch the sun set over Uluabat Lake and the redness of the lake from the lakeside or from Zambak Tepe.
Taste Lake Fish or Pancake: Eat the famous pike/catfish or hot pancakes made by the village aunts at the restaurants on the shore.
Tips:
Beware of Weekend Traffic: Gölyazı receives a lot of visitors on weekends, especially in spring and summer. For a quiet trip and convenient parking, choose weekdays or early morning hours on weekends.
Insect Repellent: Since it is a lakeside settlement, it will be useful to have a fly repellent spray with you, especially in the summer afternoons.