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.
Inception: 1994
GPS coordinates: 41.11778,29.21028
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42
Istanbul offers photographers an uncommon range of subjects, combining architecture from multiple centuries with urban landscapes and waterways. This route includes Byzantine and Ottoman monuments such as Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, along with the Galata Tower that has stood over the old city since the 14th century. The Bosphorus separates Europe and Asia and provides the setting for historic sites including Rumeli Fortress, Maiden's Tower, and waterfront palaces like Dolmabahce Palace and Kucuksu Palace. The route passes through districts with different character. Balat displays Ottoman wooden houses and narrow lanes, while Karakoy is known for its renovated industrial buildings. The Princes' Islands off the coast offer car-free streets and neoclassical mansions. Viewpoints like Camlica Hill and Pierre Loti Hill provide panoramic views of the city and the Sea of Marmara. Additional destinations include Suleymaniye Mosque, Emirgan Park with its tulip beds, and modern structures like Zorlu Center.
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