A black-and-white lighthouse, a castle on a little island and boats on the river: the Black Sea trip closest to Istanbul.
On the Black Sea coast north of Istanbul are two small towns nothing like the big city: Şile with its harbour and lighthouse, and Ağva, a village where two rivers meet the sea. The trip is a full day of nature and sea air.
Şile: the harbour and the lighthouse
Şile's best-known sight is its old black-and-white striped lighthouse, one of the oldest still working on this coast. Near the harbour, the remains of a small castle stand on a rocky islet — a lovely view for photos.
Ağva: the village of two rivers
In Ağva you take a boat ride on the river between the trees and visit the hidden lake, a quiet picture in the middle of the forest. After lunch by the river comes a safari ride, then time on the Black Sea beach.
What to buy
Şile is known for its light cotton cloth, Şile bezi, made into summer shirts and scarves — a nice gift to take home.
