Photo: Antoloji / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Sapanca Lake
A freshwater lake in green hills, the nearest lake weekend for Istanbul.
Overview
East of Istanbul, the motorway runs past a long lake in green, wooded hills. This is Sapanca Lake, where Istanbul families come for a weekend by the water.
About Sapanca Lake
Sapanca is a freshwater lake in a long valley between the Adapazarı Plain and the Gulf of İzmit. Its eastern shores belong to Sakarya and its western end to Kocaeli, and its catchment covers 252 km². It is one of the most important drinking-water sources of the region. The water rises in winter and spring and falls toward autumn.
Things to Do by the Water
Walking and cycling paths run along the shore for kilometers. So start with a walk by the water, then sit down for breakfast or a long lunch. Afterwards, drive up to the streams and forest restaurants of Maşukiye.
Maşukiye and the Kırkpınar Shore
The lake runs about 16 km (10 miles) long and 5 km (3 miles) wide, and its deepest point lies at about 61 m (200 ft). More than 80 species of migratory birds stop here. On the shore, the Kırkpınar side is known for its calm water, and a walking and cycling route of about 3 km (2 miles) runs along it. Nearby, the village of Maşukiye is known for the waterfalls of its forest stream, its trout farms and its pears, which have their own festival. From Maşukiye, the Kartepe ski center lies 16 km (10 miles) up the mountain.
Our notes for Sapanca
- ProvincesSakarya and Kocaeli
- Catchment252 km²
- WaterFresh; a drinking-water source
- PathsWalking and cycling along the shore
Our suggestion Come on a weekday morning; weekends bring Istanbul traffic.
How to Visit Sapanca Lake
The lake is about two hours from Istanbul by car, depending on traffic. For more of the region, see our Marmara guide. We plan your day at Sapanca Lake, drive from Istanbul included. From Istanbul, see our Sapanca day trip.
Would you like a green day out from Istanbul? The lake shore and a lunch by the streams of Maşukiye make an easy day out of Istanbul; pick yours. See our tailor-made trips and our drivers.
Because it is the green escape closest to Istanbul. Walk the shore path in the morning, when the water is still.
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Sapanca Lake?
In the eastern Marmara, between Sakarya and Kocaeli, about 33 km from Kocaeli city center.
Can I swim in Sapanca Lake?
It is a drinking-water source for Sakarya and Kocaeli, so follow local signs.
What can I do there?
Walk or cycle the shore paths, eat by the water and add Maşukiye nearby.
How big is Sapanca Lake?
About 16 km (10 miles) long and 5 km (3 miles) wide, with its deepest point at about 61 m (200 ft).
