ARDAHAN, Turkey
Most parts of Lake Cildir in eastern Turkey have frozen yet again amid harsh winter conditions, which is good news for those who are into outdoor activities, as a local initiative provides an opportunity for ice-cycling on the frozen lake.
Thanks to the district governorship's assistance, visitors to the natural wonder can rent bicycles adjusted specifically for ice-cycling and make the most of cold winter days.
Atalay Uzunkaya, a business manager at a restaurant by the lake, said the ice was not thick enough for pulling sleighs for the time being, so bicycling was a better activity for those seeking to take a tour around the lake.
"Our region has just begun to freeze so we have not taken horsed-sleighs outside, but bicycles are out as an alternative," he said, adding that this was yet another fun activity everyone should participate in.
Ahmet Yildiz, one of the visitors, said this was the first time he had ever cycled on mirror-like ice and that he enjoyed every minute on the frozen lake.
* Writing by Ali Murat Alhas in Ankara
ARDAHAN, TURKEY - DECEMBER 27: A man is reflected on the surface of the ice covered Lake Cildir as he rides his bike over the frozen lake in Ardahan, Turkey on December 27, 2020. Lake Cildir, located in Kars-Ardahan border, is the second largest lake in the Eastern Anatolia Region with an area of 123 square kilometers. The lake started to freeze due to the cold weather effective in the region. ( Günay Nuh - Anadolu Agency )
