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The Environs
of Istanbul
The
Princes' Islands, an archipelago of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, were
places of exile for Byzantine princes. Today, during the summer months,
Istanbul's wealthy, escape to their cool sea breezes, and elegant l9th century
houses. Büyükada is the largest of the islands. Here you can enjoy a ride in a
horse-drawn phaeton (carriage) among the pine trees, or relax on a beach in one
of the numerous coves that ring the island. The other popular islands are Kinali,
Sedef, Burgaz and Heybeliada. Regular ferry boats connect the islands with both
the European and Asian shores. A faster sea bus service operates from Kabatas in
the summer.
On the
European side of the Black Sea coast, 25 km from the outskirts of Istanbul,
Kilyos's long, broad sandy beaches draw crowds of Istanbul residents in the
summer months.
The
Belgrad Forest, inland from the Black Sea on the European side, is the largest
forest around Istanbul . On weekends, Istanbulites drive out to its shade for
family picnics and barbecues. Seven ancient reservoirs and a number of natural
springs refresh the air. The Ottoman aqueducts, of which the l6th Century
Moglova Aqueduct built by Sinan is the most splendid, lend a majesty to the
natural surroundings. Overshadowing the entrance to Kemer Golf and Country Club
is the 800-meter-long Sultan Süleyman Aqueduct, also built by Sinan; it is one
of the longest in Turkey. The 500-stable Equestrian Center offers trail riding.
On the
Asian side, Polonezköy, 25 km from Istanbul, was founded in the 19th century by
Polish immigrants. Istanbul residents come to its pastoral landscape for walks,
horseback riding and to enjoy the traditional Polish food served by descendants
of the original settlers. On the Black Sea, 70 km from Üsküdar, Sile's sandy
beaches, fish restaurants and hotels make it one of the most delightful holiday
places near Istanbul. Sile bezi, cool cotton clothing, popular with tourists, is
fashioned here.
The
Bayramoglu-Darica Bird's Paradise and Botanic Park, 38 km from Istanbul, is a
unique rest area; many species of birds and plants from all over the world can
be seen in this huge park, which also has restaurants and a promenade for
pedestrians.
The
charming fishing town of Eskihisar, southeast of Istanbul, boasts a marina where
yachtsmen can moor their boats after a day out in the Sea of Marmara. In town,
the house of Osman Hamdi Bey, Turkey's great 19th century painter, has been
converted into a museum. Neighboring sites include the tomb of Hannibal between
Eskihisar and Gebze, and a Byzantine castle.
Many
Istanbulites have summer homes near Silivri, the popular vacation area about 65
km from Istanbul. A large holiday resort, it offers everything from casinos to
sporting, health and fitness facilities, including the Klassis Country and Golf
Club, to excellent dining. The conference center attracts business people who
escape the city's fast pace for a working holiday. A regular sea bus service
connects Istanbul to Silivri.
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