Aydos Forest Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to See in Istanbul's Green Escape
Aydos Forest, located within the city limits of Istanbul, has managed to attract attention in a short time thanks to its natural beauty. This forest, which can be described as the “lungs” of Istanbul, is surrounded by a residential area on the Anatolian side. Do you want to get away from the stress and crowds of city life? Then Aydos Forest is for you! So, what to see in Aydos Forest? How to visit Aydos Forest? And what to do in Aydos forest? Let's explore together...
Everything You Need to Know About Aydos Forest
Full of hiking trails, various kiosks and picnic areas, Aydos Forest is one of the natural areas located in the south of the Anatolian Side and extending from the past to the present. With a height of 537 meters, Aydos Hill, the highest point of Istanbul, is also located in this forest.
Used as a hunting ground during the Ottoman Empire, Aydos Forest is home to many different plant species.
Although Aydos Forest does not have a specific opening or closing time, the time arrangements of the facilities within it may vary.
Entrance Fees:
Student: 20 TL
Pedestrian / Bicycle: 25 TL
ATV: 55 TL
Motorcycle: 60 TL
Automobile: 70 TL
Minibus: 200 TL
Midibus: 240 TL
Bus: 450 TL
How to Get to Aydos Forest?
Aydos Forest (or Aydos Lake) is located between Pendik, Kartal and Sultanbeyli districts of Istanbul. Due to its location in the city, transportation is very easy. It increases its popularity day by day with its central location and natural beauty.
Transportation by Public Transportation
The first transportation option is public transportation. For this, you first need to come to Kadıköy. From Kadıköy, take bus number 19F from Çemenzar Station and get off at Kozyatağı Metro Station. Then take bus number 16U to Çamlık Station. After walking about 150 meters, you will come across Aydos Forest Park Social Facilities.
Transportation by Minibus
You can get from Kadıköy to Kartal either by metro or by bus. When you reach Kartal, you can take the Aydos minibuses directly to Aydos Forest Park Social Facilities.
Transportation by Private Vehicle
If you want to come by private car, just follow the Kartal-Yakacık-Sultanbeyli signs using the E-5 or TEM connections.
Places to Visit in Aydos Forest
From Aydos Hill, the highest point of Istanbul, to Aydos Lake on the opposite side, many areas await you. Have a picnic, go for a walk, or just enjoy the silence...
Aydos Forest Lake
You can reach Aydos Lake about 5 kilometres after entering the forest, either by car, bicycle or on foot. The lake welcomes you at the end of a pleasant 30-40 minute walk following the signs.
Traveller Reviews:
“It was quieter 15 years ago, now there are facilities and it is crowded. The barbecue smoke and meat smell are a bit disturbing. The entrance is 70₺ per vehicle. You can drive to the pond, but I wish you didn't. The tables on the top are free, and the facilities below are paid. Instead of lighting a fire, we enjoyed sandwiches, fruit and thermos tea. The sunset was beautiful. Weekday morning hours are more ideal for hiking.”
“The area around the lake is very nice for hiking and picnics. However, there is a lot of garbage in the free areas. I collected a big bag of garbage. Maybe it would be cleaner if there were a fee.”
Aydos Hill
Aydos Hill, located in the opposite direction of Aydos Lake, draws attention with its Byzantine ruins and its 537-meter height. From its summit, it is possible to watch the view extending to the islands of Istanbul.
Traveller Comments:
“As the Kurtköy cycling group, we often organise tours. The view is great, everyone should see it.”
“It is an area intertwined with nature in the city. There are barbecue places, cafes, even fruits and vegetables plucked from the branches.”
Aydos Recreation Area
It is an ideal area for those who want to enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees. If you wish, you can bring your own barbecue, or you can have a pleasant day in the “cook yourself” areas.
Traveller Comments:
“The place becomes very crowded during the weekends. The toilet line is very long. The businesses are like roadside shopkeepers, but the area is big and beautiful.”
Activities You Can Do in Aydos Forest
Aydos Forest offers many alternatives for nature lovers. You can enjoy the water with a pedalo in the lake, have a picnic by the lake or run on the hiking trails. Although there are no campgrounds, you can camp by setting up your tent, fish in Aydos Lake, or take long nature walks in the forest area.
Aydos Forest Traveller Reviews
Aydos Forest through the eyes of nature lovers:
“There are 6 entrances from the Kartal Uğur Mumcu neighbourhood. Vehicle entrances are paid. Tables are paid. Pedestrian access is difficult; steep slopes and hot weather make walking difficult. There are stray dogs inside. Be careful. One side of the lake belongs to the state, the other to a private company; prices are expensive.”
Another nature enthusiast:
“This forest on the Anatolian side is one of the favourite places for trekking groups. It is far from the city but very close. It is very pleasant to walk among pine trees with plenty of oxygen. Unfortunately, environmental pollution is a problem again. Entrance by car is paid, I recommend going with a few people. There is a lot of barbecue around the pond, the inner parts are quieter and cleaner.”
Lastly:
“Aydos Forest is not just a lake. There are also Aydos Castle, entertainment areas, picnic areas, countryside wedding venues and streams. It is said that there is a stream here that reduces kidney stones. On a clear day, you can see Istanbul from Aydos Hill to the Princes' Islands. You can also buy natural products such as cow's milk, goat's milk and tomatoes in the village. Camping and controlled fires are allowed. Please let's not harm nature.”
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