Explore Atatürk Urban Forest: Istanbul’s Green Escape for Nature Lovers
In a metropolitan city like Istanbul, spending time in nature is highly valuable for those seeking to escape the city's stress and adopt a healthier lifestyle. At this point, Atatürk Urban Forest, which is located in the north of Istanbul and has attracted more and more attention in recent years, is an urban forest that attracts attention not only with its hiking or jogging trails, but also with its biodiversity, landscaping, free public areas and easy access. So, where is Atatürk Urban Forest? And how to get to Atatürk Urban Forest? Let's explore together 👇
(Image Source: Ibb Yeşil Istanbul)
Detailed Information About Atatürk Urban Forest
Atatürk Urban Forest is one of the most comprehensive green area projects brought to nature by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. This urban forest, located on an area of more than 1 million square metres between Hacıosman and Darüşşafaka districts of Sarıyer district, was opened to public use in 2020. With an area of over 1000 acres, it is one of the largest breathing spaces on the European Side.
The forest was known as ‘Hacıosman Grove’ in the past. However, with a comprehensive transformation process, its infrastructure has been improved and it has been given the identity of a modern urban park in terms of ecological sustainability. The concept of ‘urban forest’ stands out as a park model that is in nature but integrated with the city; Atatürk Urban Forest has become one of the most successful examples of this concept in Istanbul.
Walking paths, ponds, bird watching areas, observation terraces, children's playgrounds, outdoor sports areas, cafes and social facilities in the forest offer the people of Istanbul the opportunity to spend quality time in touch with nature. Moreover, all of these services are provided free of charge, which makes the urban forest a centre of attraction easily accessible to Istanbulites of all ages and income groups.
Where is Atatürk Urban Forest? How to get there?
The location of Atatürk Urban Forest provides a great advantage in terms of its proximity to the city and being accessible by metro. Located within the borders of Sarıyer district, the forest is located in the valley between Maslak and Hacıosman. The entrance gates are very close to both Hacıosman and Darüşşafaka metro stations; this makes the forest accessible to visitors from different parts of Istanbul.
Access by Public Transport:
M2 Metro Line: You can get off at the Darüşşafaka or Hacıosman stops of the Yenikapı-Hacıosman metro and walk for a few minutes directly to Atatürk Urban Forest.
Bus and Minibus Lines: Many buses (29M, 25A, 25E, etc.) passing through Büyükdere Caddesi will take you to Darüşşafaka or Hacıosman stops and you can reach the forest with a short walk.
Travelling by Private Car:
If you want to come with your own car, you can reach the forest by heading towards Sarıyer from Maslak and following the Darüşşafaka signs. There are car parking areas operated by ISPARK around the forest. It is possible to find parking spaces more easily, especially in the morning hours and on weekdays.
Atatürk Urban Forest Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
Entrance Fee:
Entrance to Atatürk Urban Forest is completely free of charge. Open to visitors of all ages, this area offers an economical nature break to the crowds of Istanbul.
Visiting Hours:
The forest is open to visitors between 05:00 am and 10:00 pm every day. Thanks to the illuminated walkways, it is very pleasant to take evening walks, especially in summer. Although the gates close at night, you can spend time until sunset.
Atatürk Urban Forest Walking and Running Trails
There are walking and running trails of different lengths and difficulty levels in the forest. Each of them is designed following the natural terrain structure and supported by directional signs.
Snapbird Track: It is approximately 1.8 km long. It is a quieter and more secluded walking route in the natural habitat.
Water Trail: It is 2.8 km round trip in total. It offers a flat track around the ponds. Ideal for families and children.
Forest Track: It is a 3 km circular route. It leads to deeper parts of nature with gentle ascents and descents.
Disability Friendly Route: It is designed as a level track between the metro gates and is suitable for wheelchair or pram use.
Benches, water fountains, litter bins, lighting and information boards are placed along all trails. Smoking is prohibited in the forest and nature conservation awareness is encouraged.
Ponds and Viewing Areas
Three separate ponds have become the symbol of Atatürk Urban Forest. These ponds are both important in terms of ecosystem and visually offer visitors an atmosphere intertwined with nature:
The Great Pond: It is the largest and most central pond. It is flanked by walking paths, seating areas and bird watching points.
Small Pond: Ideal for those who want to meditate with its silence and naturalness.
Vadidibi Pond: Located on the valley floor, this pond with a cooler and more humid climate is an attractive location for birdwatchers.
In addition, the observation terraces located high up in the forest offer a panoramic view of both the distant silhouette of the Bosphorus and the green valley.
Plant and Animal Diversity in Atatürk Urban Forest
Atatürk Urban Forest is an ecosystem with a high level of biodiversity despite being located within the city. This makes it not only a recreation area but also a nature conservation and observation centre.
Tree and plant species:
Oak species (sessile oak, thuja oak)
Pine species (pistachio pine, larch, yellow pine)
Poplar, walnut, apple, fig, cherry, cranberry
Dogwood, spruce, rosehip, hawthorn, heather and ground cover plants
Bird and Animal Species:
Sparrow, goldfinch, robin, hedgehog, blackbird
Carrion crow, mallard duck, grey heron, waterfowl
Parrot species, small cormorant, moorhen
Bird observation areas have been established throughout the forest for the protection of these species. If the rules of silence are observed, many bird observations can be made in the morning hours.
Other Places to Visit in the Surroundings
If you want to turn your visit to Atatürk Urban Forest into a richer and more cultural trip, you can also visit these places in the immediate vicinity:
Emirgan Grove: A green area famous for its tulip festival, especially in spring.
Sakıp Sabancı Museum: A cultural stop on the shores of the Bosphorus with its art galleries, exhibitions and library.
Rumeli Hisarı: One of the classics of Istanbul with its historical texture and Bosphorus view.
Belgrade Forest: An alternative nature area a little further north for those who want a bigger forest experience.
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