Buying in Uzungöl and the Highlands: The Beautiful Dream and the Restrictions to Know

The image of Uzungöl is well known: a green lake between forested mountains, a mosque on the shore and wooden houses scattered across the slopes. Many families who have visited in summer ask us: “Can we buy a house here?” It is possible, but it calls for open eyes.

Where is Uzungöl?

In the Çaykara district, south-east of Trabzon, about 100 kilometres from the city centre, at an altitude of roughly a thousand metres above sea level. The road there is beautiful, passing through valleys and villages, and takes about an hour and a half to two hours depending on the season.

What is for sale?

• Wooden houses and chalets on the slopes.
• Land in the surrounding villages and highlands.
• Apartments in a limited number of buildings.

The restrictions you need to know

1. Protection and zoning

Uzungöl and its surroundings are a tourist and nature area with special zoning rules, and they have seen years of strict enforcement against illegal buildings. Do not buy a house before confirming that it is licensed and compliant, and that the title deed reflects what you see.

2. Type of land

Much of the land in the highlands is agricultural or forest land on which building is not allowed, or allowed only with restrictions. And remember that a foreigner who buys land must submit a project for its use within two years. See the guide to foreign ownership and the guide to title deed types.

3. Shared title deeds

In the villages, property jointly owned by multiple heirs is common. Buying an undivided share can draw you into endless disputes.

Real life in the highlands

• The season is short: summer is busy and beautiful, winter is long, cold and snowy.
• Roads: some side roads become difficult in snow and rain.
• Services: hospitals and large markets are in the city.
• Maintenance: a wooden house needs constant care against damp and cold. See the guide to winter and heating in Trabzon.

Investment and rentals

Strong summer demand makes holiday rentals tempting. But renting by the day has required a licence since 2024, and the season is short. Calculate the return on the summer months only, after expenses. See the guide to the short-term rental law.

An alternative that combines both

Many of our clients choose an apartment in Trabzon on the coast or the hills, and visit Uzungöl and the highlands on day trips or short breaks. That way they enjoy nature without the burdens of a mountain house.

In short

Buying in Uzungöl is possible for those who want a summer home in nature and accept its restrictions, provided they rigorously check the permits, land status and title deed, and make a realistic calculation for a short season and a long winter. For those who want nature without the burdens, the city is a better base.

We check the status of any highland property before offering it, and we arrange viewing trips there. Contact us, or start with properties in Trabzon.