Index:
Take a deep breath: Kazdağları (Kaz Mountain)
Capital of tranquility: Sapanca
Even more beautiful in the spring: Abant
Magnificent Çağlayan canyons: Ballıkayalar Nature Park
The rainy paradise of the Aegean: Köyceğiz
Take a deep breath: Kazdağları (Kaz Mountain)
How to get to Kazdağları
The first step in getting to Kazdağları is flying into Balıkesir Kocaseyit Airport. A direct flight from Istanbul takes about an hour, although some flights connect via Ankara. Daily flights are available: just click here for more information. You can also rent a car with Turkish Airlines privileges; the airport is about 48 kilometers from Kazdağları.
Why you should visit Kazdağları
Kazdağları, one of the most precious natural areas of our country, is described as the “lungs of the region”. In 1993, Kazdağları was declared a national park by decision of the Council of Ministers and registered as one of the most important ecosystems not only in Türkiye but also in the world; it is considered the second most important oxygen reservoir in the world after the Alps, and particularly attracts visitors with asthma or breathing issues. The National Park includes six mountains: Kaz Mountain (also known as Mount Ida), Dede Mountain, Eybek Mountain, Baba Mountain, Kocakatran Mountain and Güngen Mountain.
Dining around Kazdağları
The answer to “what to eat in Kazdağları” is long, but we’ve prepared a summary here. Something to note: Balıkesir is the source of Türkiye’s most delicious mutton and lamb, so definitely sample dishes that contain these meats. Mount Ida’s local specialties also include zucchini flower soup, cranberry juice and sour grape syrup, as well as vegetable dishes such mallows, sorrel and roasted asparagus!
Places to visit in Kazdağları
Sarıkız Tomb, Adatepe Village and the Altar of Zeus are top attractions in Kazdağları, as are three ancient cities in the surrounding area; these are Assos, Adramyttion and Antandros. Güre Thermal Springs, in Kazdağı National Park, is one of Türkiye’s most important thermal centers. In addition, the Hasanboğuldu, Pınarbaşı and Sütüven waterfalls in Kazdağı National Park are especially beautiful in the spring.
Capital of tranquility: Sapanca
How to get to Sapanca
From İstanbul, one can travel to Sapanca by road or by train. It is about a 90-minute drive from Istanbul to Sapanca and about a 70-minute trip from Istanbul’s Pendik train station to Sapanca.
Why you should visit Sapanca
Sapanca is a lovely oasis close to Istanbul, and it has a long history: the first inhabitants of the Sapanca region are believed to be the Phrygians. The area came under Seljuk rule in 1075. Modern day Sapanca attracts visitors for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Sapanca bungalows and hotels
We think that spring is the best time to visit Sapanca! It is close enough to Istanbul to go for the day and a picnic next to Sapanca Lake! For longer stays, the area has cozy bungalow rentals and both upscale and modest hotels.
Sapanca’s special charms
Sapanca Lake and its thermal hotels are well known in Türkiye. The lake, which is calm, is ideal for canoeing. As well, the area offers nature walks that pass along waterfalls and streams in Maşukiye and Kırkpınar!
Dining in Sapanca
Our two favorite meals in Sapanca are breakfast and dinner. A scrumptious breakfast, preferably eaten outdoors and accompanied by birdsong. Dinner is fresh fish and tasty appetizers eaten along Sapanca Lake!
Also in the area
In addition to the beautiful natural surroundings, Sapanca features important historical structures. The Rüstempaşa Mosque, built by Mimar Sinan during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, is in the center of Sapanca. The Vecihi Gate is also notable; set at the entrance of the old Ünlüce Street, the gate dates from the Ottoman Empire. The date of the original construction of the Vecihi Gate is unknown, but allegedly it was built by Mimar Sinan. It is believed to have been a trade gate and crossing point of the Silk Road.
Even more beautiful in the spring: Abant
How to get to Abant
Ankara Esenboğa Airport is the closest airport to Abant; the distance of 230 kilometers can be drive in approximately two hours. Abant is about a three-hour drive from Istanbul. For information on flights, click here!
Places to visit in Abant
As you can imagine, Yedigöller National Park is our top pick. This breathtaking park, featuring seven lakes, features incredible nature and amazing photo opportunities. Yedigöller also has walking and hiking paths, as well as camping facilities. Other notable places in Abant are the Örmeci Plateau, the Abant Nature Museum, Sinekli Plateau and Samandere Waterfall.
Dining in Abant
Around Lake Abant is a privately owned restaurant, along with numerous self-catering facilities.
In the area
The Seben Kaya Houses in the Seben district of Bolu, a historical settlement featuring rock-carved structures, are near the Alpagut and Solaklar villages and the Muslar neighborhood. It is believed that the Seben Kaya structures date from the Early Christian Period.
The Magnificent Çağlayan canyons: Ballıkayalar Nature Park
Why you should visit Ballıkayalar Nature Park
With its extraordinary nature and a variety of endemic plant species, Ballıkayalar Nature Park is a wonderful getaway – it is about a 45-minute drive from Istanbul! The park was taken under protection in 1995 by the decision of the Council of Ministers.
Ballıkayalar Nature Park’s special charms
Ballıkayalar Nature Park is famous for its canyons and paths, as well as its waterfalls and streams, especially the Ballıkaya Stream, which cascades from the center of a rocky canyon. Ballıkayalar is also popular for activities such as ATV safaris, trekking, and paintball.
Dining in Ballıkayalar Nature Park
If you ask us, the best dining in the park is self-catered: bring a thermos and some sandwiches for a relaxing picnic amid nature!
A world heritage: Safranbolu
How to get to Safranbolu
The closest airport to Safranbolu is Kastamonu Airport, about a 90-minute drive. Click here to investigate flights to Kastamonu. At the airport, you can take advantage of car rental opportunities with Turkish Airlines privileges. ☺
Why you should visit Safranbolu
Safranbolu, within the borders of the Karabük province, was one of the first values in Türkiye to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, in 1994. Safranbolu takes its name from saffron, one of the most precious and expensive spices in the world.
Safranbolu’s special charms
The saffron of Safranbolu is, unsurprisingly, famous for its high quality. The area is believed to have been settled around 3000 BC and gained its present structure in the 17th and 18th centuries; the historical Safranbolu Houses are excellent examples of Ottoman civil architecture. Many of these houses now serve as museums. Safranbolu’s charming cobblestone pavements and narrow streets offer lovely springtime walks. And, while you’re strolling around town, sample the Safranbolu Lokumu (Safranbolu Turkish delight)!
The rainy paradise of the Aegean: Köyceğiz
How to get to Köyceğiz
Köyceğiz is about a 30-minute drive from Muğla Dalaman Airport. And affordable flights to Dalaman are just a click away!
Why you should visit Köyceğiz
One of Muğla’s thirteen districts, Köyceğiz is second only to Rize in terms of rainfall per year. Accordingly, Köyceğiz is a calmer destination than Muğla’s more popular tourism settlements, such as Fethiye, Marmaris and Bodrum.
Köyceğiz honey and other famous local products
The honey in Köyceğiz is quite famous, as is the region’s sweetgum oil. Its citrus groves, especially orange groves, are renowned across Türkiye.
Places to visit in Köyceğiz
Lake Köyceğiz is at the top of our list. The lake was formed during an earthquake approximately 7,500 years ago. The resulting crater filled with water and alluviums blocked the front of the bay. In addition to the wetlands and flora and fauna of the area, Lake Köyceğiz is home to Türkiye’s largest trout farm. Other natural wonders in Köyceğiz are the Gökçeova Pond and Ölemez Mountain which, at seven hundred meters, is not difficult to climb. Hikers often ascend Ölemez for views of the Sandras Mountains, Dalyan Canals, İztuzu Beach and the reed maze. Other wonderful Köyceğiz attractions are the Ağla Plateau and the Sultaniye Hot Springs, which is known for its healing waters.
A Black Sea Tale: Amasra
How to get to Amasra
The closest airport is Zonguldak Çaycuma Airport, which is about 52 kilometers from Amasra. For information on flights to Amasra, click here.
Why you should visit Amasra
Amasra, a small and charming resort in the Western Black Sea Region, offers a splendid springtime holiday featuring natural beauty and 3,000 years of history! Not to mention the pristine Black Sea air and the magnificent views…
Places to visit in Amasra
We suggest that you spend at least a couple of days in this pleasant district, which offers plenty to see and do. First is Amasra Castle, on the UNESCO World Temporary Heritage List. Other sites include the historical Çekiciler Castle, the Ağlayan Ağaç (Weeping Tree), and the Fatih Mosque, a church converted into a mosque following the conquest of Amasra by Fatih Sultan Mehmet. The historical Kemere Bridge, which connects the two neighborhoods, is another essential place to visit, as are the Büyük Liman Beach and Direkli Kaya.
Dining in Amasra
Naturally, fish and seafood from the Black Sea are prominent in the Amasra dining scene. Another local dish is the Amasra salad, made with 27 different ingredients. The pita of Amasra is justifiably famous and the area’s honey yoghurt dessert is spectacular!
