A Guide to Anadolufeneri: Istanbul's Stunning Coastal Village

Anadolufeneri, situated on a small peninsula between Çakaltepe and Kabakoz Decays, marks the point where the Istanbul Strait opens to the Black Sea. It is widely considered as the most famous village of Beykoz, boasting a rich history and cultural significance. While the exact date of the lighthouse's construction remains unknown, it is an iconic symbol of the area and draws visitors from all over the world. Anadolufeneri is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Istanbul, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's past.Anadolufeneri is a village located on a small peninsula. This place was founded in 1658. Anadolufeneri, one of the most famous villages of Beykoz, takes its name from the lighthouse here. This place entered the status of a neighborhood with the decision taken in 2014, but both economic activities and the general environment of the village bring with it a life away from urbanization.It is thought that the first reason for the establishment of this village was the settlement of those who came to burn the lighthouse located in the village around the village. The exact date the lighthouse was built is not known. According to the researches, the clearest information about the village environment and the lighthouse is that there was a wooden lighthouse in the area in 1755 and this lighthouse was turned into its current form in 1834.Some of those who live their lives in Anatolia are immigrants from the Caucasus. Some of them are those who came from Crete as soldiers and settled. The most important feature of this place is that it has the last bay at the exit of the Istanbul Strait. For this reason, the point where the Naval Forces control the Strait exits is provided by a radar unit located below the village.Anadolufeneri had the status of a military region until the late 1980s. It was later partially removed from this status. It is stated that Meliha Elçioğlu, the first and only female mukhtar of Anadolufeneri, has made great contributions to the development of the village. With his works, he has widened the village roads, provided the connection of the municipal bus to the village, renovated the village elementary school building are some of the things he has done.The protection of Anadolufeneri has ensured the existence of forests and natural life. Gazelles, wild pigs, jackals and various bird species lived in the forests here. A large part of the existing forests have been lost due to the fire, the works in the region and the third bridge.There is a “Hamid-i Evvel Mosque” built by II Abdulhamit in the village in 1880. At the same time, the Yoros Castle belonging to the Byzantine period is also located here.Transportation to Anadolufeneri, which is the village of Beykoz district of Istanbul, is quite easy. Anadolu Lighthouse is located at a distance of about 33 km from Üsküdar via the New Riva Road.About 4 km after passing Beykoz. Then you can reach here by following the Poyrazköy-Anadolu Lighthouse sign.Address: 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulThere are many places you can visit in Anadolufeneri. Some of them are as follows:Yoros Castle is a castle dating from the Eastern Roman period on the Anatolukavagi ridges in Istanbul. This castle fell into the hands of the Genoese after the empire weakened and remained with them for a long time.Some of the towers in the inner part are still in good condition and there are Greek inscriptions on the walls. When you come to the vicinity of Anadolufeneri, you should definitely stop by Yoros Castle.Address: Anadolu Kavagi, Fener Yolu No:3, 34825 Beykoz/IstanbulYou should definitely include the lighthouse that gives its name to the Anadolufeneri village in your visits. In addition to its magnificent appearance, Anadolu Lighthouse also offers a unique view by staying right opposite the bridge.It can be difficult to find a clean and comfortable beach to swim on in Istanbul. Anadolufeneri Beach is one of the alternatives that you can evaluate in Istanbul. You can cool off here on summer days with clean water.Jul.Address: Anadolufeneri, Beykoz Cd., 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulThe increase in the number of tourists visiting every day allows businesses to be opened around Anadolufeneri. Some of the restaurants, cafes and other businesses that you can visit here are:Güzelce Fener is one of the most visited establishments around the Anatolian Forest both in terms of its appearance and the variety of its menu. If you want to have something to eat and drink against the bridge, you can stop by here.Address: Anadolufeneri, Adatepe Cul-de-Sac 3/1, 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulPhone: 05322348541Working Hours: 09.00 - 19.00Efsunlu Garden is also among the most popular enterprises of Anadolufeneri with its delicious food and drinks, as well as its views. Decadent garden is also one of the most popular establishments of Anadolufeneri.Address: Anadolufeneri, Türbe Sk. No:11, 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulPhone: 05309105569This is a business where invitations such as weddings, engagements are given and also serves as a restaurant. Çifa Bosphorus, with its menu of delicious food, is a place you can choose for a stylish dinner.Address: Anadolufeneri Mahallesi Menekse Sokak(Akcakent Sokak, D:No:2/1 , 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulPhone: 05326793500Website: https://www.cifabosphorus.com/For those who want to spend a few days accompanied by the village atmosphere in Anadolufeneri, our hotel recommendations are as follows:This is both a hotel and a restaurant. You can enjoy the village atmosphere at Taşlıhan Boutique Hotel, which stands out with its comfortable and cozy rooms; you can explore every point of Anadolufeneri during your holiday.Address: Anadolufeneri Mah, Akçakent Sk. No:6, 34829 Beykoz/IstanbulPhone: 05495360015Website: http://www.taslihan.com/While you are in the vicinity of Anadolufeneri, there are many places you can visit here. Some of them are as follows:Yavuz Sultan Selim BridgeElmasburnu Nature ParkRiva BeachZucchiniOnion PeninsulaYusha Eminence Hill