Sapanca Lake & Maşukiye Day Trip with Shopping

Important notices! Pick up is valid for centrally located hotels. Pick up times may change +-15 minutes due to the location of hotels. Please ask if pick-up is available for your hotel. Kartepe will only be visited during the winter season. Activities such as ATV and Zipline do not belong to the agency. The agency is not responsible for the use of or customer participation in activities external to the agency such as ATV and Zipline. This tour may end at around 22:00 23:00 (subject to change based on traffic and weather conditions). *The agency and the tour guide have the right to change the program according to weather conditions and traffic density.

Sapanca Lake & Maşukiye Daily Tour

If you seek to escape from the chaotic city life of Istanbul, daily tours are just perfect for you. With its natural and untouched beauty, Sapanca Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Turkey. The Maşukiye is also renowned for its peaceful nature and local river. You don’t need to be from Istanbul, since it’s been a popular tourist attraction. Sapanca Lake & Maşukiye Daily tour would be a great choice to unbrace yourself. By breathing the freshness of the country air, besides the beautiful scenery, you will free your soul completely. With Istanbul Tourist Pass, you can live this special experience budget-friendly. You can be sure you won’t regret so here is another daily tour you may be interested in Bursa Day Trip.

History of Sapanca

Sapanca, a charming district of Sakarya, is located on the city's western border. Today, Sapanca, which is described as a quiet and hidden paradise and attracts attention as one of the most beautiful places to visit near Istanbul, actually has a deep history. The first mention of Sapanca in history dates back to 1200 BC. According to the first written documents known at that time, the Phrygians came to the region. The transformation of this city into a settlement dates back to the Kingdom of Britain in 378 AD. As it is known, those who were in the region in 391, under the influence of the Greeks in the north, refer to this place as Siphonensis Lacus in a Laz source. During the Byzantine rule in the region, its name was known by the Eastern Roman Empire as Buanes, Sofhan, and Sofhang.

The Turkification of Sapanca began in 1075 when the Anatolian Seljuk State came here and gave the region the names Ayan and Ayanköy. However, during the Crusades, the region passed back to the Byzantines. In 1640, Evliya Çelebi wrote in the notes he took while passing through the town that this place was originally named Sabancı Koca, named after the old man who cleared the forest and bushes and that this village turned into a town during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent. For this reason, it is thought that the name of the Sabancı Koca settlement changed into Sapanca with the ease of saying it over time.

Sapanca Lake

Sapanca Lake, located within the borders of Sakarya in the Marmara Region, was once a part of the Marmara Sea. However, over time, it separated from the sea and became a freshwater lake on its own. Sapanca Lake, formerly known as Ayan Lake, was formed by the effect of the underlying fault line.

The lake, which is 16 kilometers long, spreads over an area of ​​42 square kilometers. Although the deepest point of Sapanca Lake is 61 meters, its average depth is around 30 meters. In the measurements made, the lake water temperature rises in winter and spring, while it decreases in summer. Therefore, the height difference of the water also changes from season to season. The difference, which is sometimes 80 centimeters, can sometimes go up to 150 centimeters.

It is mostly fed from the springs of Samanlı Mountain located in the south of the lake. The most important of these sources are as follows; Derbent Stream, Eşme Stream, Aygır Stream, Maden Stream, Keçi Stream, Arifiye Stream, Istanbul Stream and Yanık Stream. When the lake exceeds its volume, the excess water is poured into the Sakarya River, located on the eastern side.

Around 80 bird species live in Sapanca Lake, which is frequented by local and foreign tourists throughout the year. It is less polluted than other lakes because it is fed from many sources. However, there may still be pollution in some places. The most important bird species that accept Sapanca Lake as a natural habitat are apple-head patka and Hungarian duck. In addition, the cuckoo is the most common bird species to be found in the lake. Disproportionate growth is observed in plants on Sapanca Lake, as the grouse hunt in groups. The most common fish species in the lake are carp, pike and catfish.

About Maşukiye

Located in the east of Kocaeli, on the southwest coast of Sapanca Lake, on the outskirts of Kartepe, Maşukiye is one of Turkey's most popular villages. It has two neighborhoods, namely Soğuksu and Çınarlı.

It is the right address for those seeking peace with its forests, streams, waterfalls and orchards. Since it is located at the intersection of the Black Sea climate and the Mediterranean climate, it has been affected by both climates and a unique nature has emerged. The name Maşukiye comes from the word "maşuk". The word maşuk also means “in love”. For years, it has been a place preferred by newlyweds from the surrounding cities for their honeymoon. Local people say that those who come to Maşukiye will fall in love and say that the village is the village of lovers.

Maşukiye Village was established in the 1860s. After the Caucasian-Russian Wars, the Circassian tribes living in and around today's Sochi came and settled in today's Maşukiye Village in order to establish close relations with the Ottoman Palace. Among the Circassians who came, Murat Bey is known as the founder of the village. During the 93 War, a group called Mahde from Batumi came and settled in the village. Later, over time, migrations from the Black Sea and Romania formed the present population of the village. In addition, the first female mayor and the first female officer of the republican period came from Maşukiye.

The pleasure of experiencing every season in Maşukiye is different. The scenery in this village between Kartepe and Sapanca Lake is beautiful in every season.

About This Unforgettable Tour

Embark on an awe-inspiring expedition to Sapanca and Maşukiye, two hidden gems nestled in Turkey's breathtaking landscapes. Immerse yourself in the allure of Sapanca, a charming town renowned for its natural beauty, highlighted by the mesmerizing Sapanca Lake.

Journey to Maşukiye, a haven of picturesque landscapes and romantic ambiance, where the river meanders through verdant surroundings. Discover why this enchanting destination has become a favorite retreat for couples seeking a touch of serenity and affection.

Indulge in the flavors of Mahmudiye as you enjoy a delectable lunch amidst the cascading waterfalls of Naturkoy. Breathe in the invigorating countryside air and let the captivating scenery captivate your senses.

Experience the local culture with a visit to Organic House, where the art of Turkish delight and honey-making comes alive. Uncover the secrets behind these traditional delicacies and savor their authentic tastes.

For a touch of winter wonder, our seasonal itinerary includes an extraordinary visit to Mount Kartepe. Be enchanted by the snow-covered landscapes and immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of the winter season.

Join us on this remarkable journey through Sapanca, Maşukiye, and Mahmudiye. Book your Turkish adventure today and create memories that will stay with you forever.