Sapanca

Known for its enchanting nature and unique architectural texture, Sapanca is a delightful region with a history dating back to 1200 BC, wooden houses, and countless flavors. It is in an extremely convenient location even for your weekend getaways. It is one of the most preferred regions in recent years to spend a quiet, peaceful weekend in touch with nature.

How to get to Sapanca?

You can reach Istanbul in 2.5 hours by bus. When you go by private vehicle, this time will be reduced to 2 hours. You can also reach Pendik high-speed train station with Marmaray and reach Sapanca with a train journey of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

History of Sapanca

Sapanca also draws attention to its historical values. According to written documents, the first inhabitants of Sapanca were Phrygians around 1200 BC. In 378 AD, the Bithynians established the settlement in the region. At that time the name of the region was called Siphonensis Lacus. During the time of the Eastern Roman Empire, which later dominated the region, the town was also called Buanes, Sofhan, and Sofhange. The Anatolian Seljuks, on the other hand, called it Ayan or Ayanköy when they established dominance in the region. The region, which looks like a village, grew into a town during the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Things to do in Sapanca

Cycling, especially around Sapanca Lake, is one of the most enjoyable activities that must be done by those who come to the town. If you want to enjoy nature you can also choose Sapanca camping areas. If you came to Sapanca with your group of friends, activities such as Paintball and ATV can be fun for you. In addition, numerous restaurants in this region bring their visitors together with magnificent tastes.

Justinianus Bridge

One of the most interesting historical places in Sapanca is the Justinian Bridge. The bridge is located in Beşköprü, only 20 minutes away from Sapanca, and is also called Beşköprü. The bridge was named after the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, who had the bridge built in 558-560. It is thought that the structure, which has an impressive length of 365 meters and 12 arches, was built to facilitate transportation between the eastern region and Istanbul.

Byzantine Sarcophagi

The sarcophagi from the Byzantine period in front of the Government House are among the famous historical monuments of Sapanca. Byzantine Sarcophagi; It can be visited every day and hour of the year, completely free of charge. There are 4 sarcophagi in total. These sarcophagi, located in a central location, can offer you important clues about Sapanca's history.

Sapanca Station Building

The Station Building is one of the first places to visit in the center of Sapanca. Built-in 1890. It was completed during the reign of Abdülhamit. The architecture of the building was undertaken by French Hazelaire. Sapanca Station Building is among the must-see historical places of Sapanca, as it is one of the buildings that best reflects the architectural elements of the period and sets an example for administrative structures. Sapanca Station Building is approximately 2 km away from Sapanca.

Rustem Pasha Mosque

Rüstem Pasha Mosque is one of the most important Ottoman architectural structures in Sapanca that has survived since the 16th century, and it is one of the places that should be added to your Sapanca trip. Rüstem Paşa Mosque is located 1 km from Sapanca.

Sapanca Lake

Sapanca Lake is a natural wonder, surrounded by forests, approximately 40 square kilometers wide. The diversity of plant species on its shore and the clear blue of its water create a full blend of colors, especially in the spring months when nature comes alive. The shady paths stretching between plane trees and vegetable orchards add a different beauty to the region and the lake. Sapanca Lake, which is 1.5 km away from Sapanca, is ideal for spending a day in touch with nature. Here you can take a ride on lake bikes with your family or friends.

Maşukiye Park

Maşukiye Park, which is approximately 10 km from Sapanca, is a very touristic area where bird sounds are mixed with the sounds of waterfalls. Here, you can dine against the view, camp, have pleasant walks in nature, and observe the diversity of living things around you. Also, you can take a tour with ATVs

Sakarya Provincial Forest Nature Park

In Sakarya Provincial Forest Nature Park, which is 6 km away from Sapanca, you can spend a day in touch with nature and have a camping and picnic at the same time. You can organize bicycle tours with your friends and go on pleasant and long nature walks.

Kartepe Ski Center

In Kartepe Ski Center, which is 30 km away from Sapanca, you can enjoy the unique view via cable cars and experience a pleasant skiing adventure with your family or friends. In Kartepe, which is one of the most popular spots for winter tourism and weekend holidays, you can stay in Kartepe hotels where you will witness the most beautiful reflections of nature.

Doğançay Waterfall

You can camp, trek, and enjoy the fresh air and scenery at Doğançay Waterfall, which is 30 km away from Sapanca. 

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