Istanbul, Turkey

Belgrade Forest

A great wilderness escape, 15km north of Istanbul. Belgrade Forest is 13,500 acres with many km of trails great for running. Lots of deciduous trees and opportunities for shady running, which especially nice in summer. It’s a popular spot for walking, hiking, and running. There are nine nature parks and many recreational areas in the Forest.

Atatürk Arboretum

One of the best running options is the 6.5km (4 mile) jogging track that begins at a fountain by the Neset Suyu (Neset Spring), with exercise equipment stationed along the way for public use. Another treat is the Atatürk Arboretum, which is 2.5 km from the spring.

Belgrade Forest is easiest to reach by car, but the the small town of Bahçeköy, located in the center of the forest, is served by public buses and is a good spot to start a run. Note that there aren’t any good public maps of the forest.

 

 

 

Essentials
  • Many km of paths. There is a dedicated 6.5 km (4 mile) jogging track.
  • Jogging track starts at Neset Spring. Town of Bahçeköy, near the Arboretum, is good departure point for trails
  • 06 Highway. Buses serve Bahçeköy

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Essentials
  • Many km of paths. There is a dedicated 6.5 km (4 mile) jogging track.
  • Jogging track starts at Neset Spring. Town of Bahçeköy, near the Arboretum, is good departure point for trails
  • 06 Highway. Buses serve Bahçeköy