Fresh air, restaurants by the streams and ATVs in the forest. Why visitors love Sapanca, and what to do there.
Sapanca is a favourite with families: close to Istanbul yet completely different, with a wide lake framed by mountains and forest, quiet villages and cooler summers. Next to it, Maşukiye is known for its waterfalls and riverside restaurants.
What you do on the trip
- A Turkish delight and honey exhibition, with tastings.
- ATV rides on forest trails — the young ones' favourite.
- Time by the Mahmudiye waterfalls.
- A walk along Lake Sapanca for photos.
Food
Maşukiye is known for restaurants along the streams, where families sit by the water; the classic dish is grilled trout. Lunch is included on our trip.
When to go
Spring and summer for green views and outdoor fun, autumn for warm colours, and in winter you can add nearby Kartepe when it is covered in snow.
