İğneada Mert Lake Lagoon and Canoe Track

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore Mert Lake Lagoon is a unique natural wonder where fresh water and the salt water of the Black Sea embrace, located in the heart of İğneada Longoz Forests National Park, the largest floodplain forest ecosystem in Europe and Türkiye. The lagoon, which is formed by the water accumulating behind the coastal cordon created by the alluviums carried by Çavuşdere on the seashore, turns into a fairytale-like labyrinth of floodplains by completely submerging the base of the ash, alder and oak forests as the snow melts and the river flow increases in the spring months. Kayaking among the white water lilies and yellow water violets that cover the lake surface is one of the most fascinating ecotourism rituals nature lovers can experience in the world. According to the legend of the local nomads and fishermen, it has been whispered for centuries that nymphs dance among the reeds in the foggy mornings of Lake Mert, and those who bathe in the emerald waters of the lake find youth and vitality. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features It is located at sea level (0 meters altitude) on the Black Sea coastline, just south of İğneada town of Demirköy district. 266 hectares of wetland area; It has a rich biodiversity with ash, alder, elm forests, water violets and more than 200 migratory bird species (osprey, black stork, gray heron). Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees