Polonezköy Nature Park, Nature park in Beykoz district, Istanbul, Turkey
Polonezköy Nature Park is a large protected natural area in the Beykoz district featuring extensive forests of black pines, oaks, horse-chestnuts, and Mediterranean cypress. The grounds are crossed by numerous hiking and cycling routes that lead to various observation towers and resting spots.
The village was founded in 1842 by Polish emigrants after the November Uprising and was originally called Adamköy. The name changed in 1923 to Polonezköy to more clearly reflect its cultural origins.
The village preserves Polish heritage through traditional-style houses and regular festivals that reflect the lives of early settlers. The church and village center still show traces of this particular settlement today and draw visitors interested in learning more about this history.
The park offers various facilities for lodging, camping, and picnicking at several locations, making it suitable for day trips or longer stays. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, as the hiking trails have different demands depending on the route.
The park houses red deer, wild boars, jackals, and various bird species including pheasants and multiple hawks in designated wildlife zones. These animals can be spotted while walking through, making up much of the area's natural inhabitants.
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