DEAR/BELOVED/LOVED ONE (depending on the context) NATURE. SEVERE. FRIENDS ,

Belgrade Forest, like a benevolent father, has always provided support to the people of Istanbul and to all living creatures within the forest, whether they reside there or simply visit. Consequently, throughout history, almost all rulers, including emperors and sultans, have been grateful to the forest. Therefore, regardless of how challenging the social and economic conditions were, the idea of undertaking any activity that would harm the forest's natural environment never even crossed their minds. Indeed, during the Ottoman period, the wood needs of both the palace and the people were largely met from Anatolia, but the thought of even taking a single branch from this forest, located so close to the city, was never considered.

The historical significance of Belgrade Forest has not diminished over time; in fact, it continues to grow. This is not solely due to the water structures within the forest. Just as major cities like Vienna have their "Wienerwald," Berlin has its "Grünwald," and Paris has its "Boulogne" forest, Istanbul has only "Belgrade Forest" that could potentially hold a similar identity. It is our historical responsibility to ensure that this unique blend of nature and culture, which has been passed down to us from societies that have inhabited the forest since prehistoric times, continues to thrive for centuries to come.

We are walking through Belgrad Forest, the most important green space on the European side of Istanbul, a place that embraces and protects countless forms of life, including 18 tree species, 400 plant species, 169 bird species, 56 butterfly species, and hundreds of mushroom varieties, as well as numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. It is home to invaluable architectural works that have survived for centuries, connecting the past to the present.

Event Coordinator:

Zeki Karaçavuşoğlu, phone number: 0532 638 33 18.

(WhatsApp only)

MEETING POINT: Bahçe Cafe, located in the center of Bahçeköy.

MEETING TIME: 10:00 AM.

01.11.2026 SUNDAY

MOVEMENT TIME: 10:15 AM

Participants who register for the event but do not attend will have -50 points deducted.

TRANSPORTATION: For those using public transportation, you can take the Hacıosman Metro Station (line 42HM), get off at the last stop, and then reach Bahçe Cafe. Those arriving by car can park directly in the center of Bahçeköy and walk to Bahçe Cafe.

Course Structure:

Dirt roads, forest roads, and trails within the forest.

Parkour Information & Route:

Route.Belgrade Forest Ring Road.

Walking distance.Approximately 11-12 kilometers.

Operating period.Approximately 4-5 hours.

Height. Change.231 meters of altitude gain, 231 meters of altitude loss.

(This trail is ideal for those who are trying hiking for the first time.)

Breakfast & Shopping:

You can arrive early for the meeting and have breakfast at the Garden Cafe.

There are supermarkets located near the meeting place.

Lunch:

We're bringing our own food for lunch. We recommend bringing nuts, sandwiches, fruit, and snacks.

Preparation:

You will need hiking boots that provide ankle support, a whistle, and trekking poles.

General Information:

The day before the event, a WhatsApp group will be created to provide participants with detailed information.
The information provided in this announcement may be subject to change depending on the circumstances during the event.
The vegetation may be overgrown, so it might be suitable for short, exploratory walks.
The tour group and the itinerary are subject to change based on the conditions.

Activity Difficulty Level:Normal.

Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required. This hike is suitable for those who are new to hiking.
Terrain: The elevation changes are minimal, and the trail consists of gently sloping paths and tractor roads. There are occasional sections where you may need to navigate through bushes.
Trail: Typically, it's a dirt road, but it can also include paths and unpaved roads.
Distance: Varies between 5 and 15 kilometers.
Who can participate: Anyone who is new to hiking and does not have any health problems can participate.