Aşıklar Plajı, often referred to as the 'pearl of the Black Sea', is a scenic beach located in the İğneada district of Demirköy, Kırklareli, Turkey. It has a reputation for its natural beauty, including long sandy beaches that stretch for nearly 20 km along the westernmost part of the Black Sea in Thrace. The beach is set against the backdrop of lush Istranca forests, and is flanked by Mert Lake on one side and Erikli Lake on the other.
The beach is renowned for its clean air, pristine sea, and the surrounding forests and lakes. The sand at Aşıklar Plajı is unique, rumored to contain traces of gold, although these cannot be gathered with current technology.
Aşıklar Plajı is around 224 km away from Istanbul. The journey to reach the beach takes about 3.5 hours. Despite its relative seclusion, the beach is popular among those seeking a tranquil and picturesque location on the Black Sea. However, visitors should be aware that the water depth increases rapidly, making it potentially unsuitable for families with children.
The beach is relatively small and secluded, enhancing its charm. It is surrounded by lush pine forests, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue sea, and providing an ideal spot for watching sunsets. However, the presence of stray dogs and the issue of pollution and littering are concerns that have somewhat marred its natural beauty.
Visitors to Aşıklar Plajı can also explore several attractions in the surrounding region. These include the Dupnisa Cave, a 3,000-meter-long cave system with underground rivers, the historic Fatih Dökümhanesi foundry, the unique ecosystem of the Longos Forests, and the Erikli-Mert and Saka Lakes. The İğneada Deniz Feneri lighthouse and the village of Beğendik Köy also offer interesting glimpses into the local culture and history.
