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 Kınalı,
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 l9th 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, Şile's sandy beaches, fish
restaurants and hotels make it one of the most delightful holiday places
near Istanbul. Şile bezi, cool cotton clothing, popular with tourists, is
fashioned here.
The Bayramoğlu-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
l9th 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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