Culture & Travel
31 January 2023In Turkiye, surrounded by natural wonders on all four corners, we have many national parks that are under protection so that we can leave a legacy for future generations. These national parks, where Turkish citizens who want to spend time with nature visit, have picnics, and could swim in the sea, are also the national values of Turkiye. Let’s get to know a little more about what we have chosen from these national parks for you.
Dilek Peninsula Büyük Menderes Delta National Park, Kuşadası / Aydın
Dilek Peninsula National Park, with its beautiful and legendary coves and beaches with stony or white sand, is the favorite of those coming from Aydın and the surrounding provinces. Dilek Peninsula, which stands out among the national parks with its picnic organizations, restaurants and cafes, underwater riches, and plant diversity, is also named by the Council of Europe as ‘Flora Biogenetic’ because it contains all plant species from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. It is classified as a ‘Reserve Area.’
Köprülü Canyon National Park, Manavgat / Antalya
Many alternatives to see, such as the magnificent observation deck, the Köprüçay River that opens the door to adrenaline-filled rafting, the wonderful views of the Taurus Mountains, and the Selge Ancient City in the western part, await its enthusiasts in Köprülü Canyon National Park. In this national park, which is one of the most important points in terms of rafting tourism in our country, one should not return without giving a place to different sports options such as nature photography, trekking, rock climbing, swimming, fishing, camping, and jeep safari.
Kızıldağ National Park, Sarkikaraagac / Isparta
Kızıldağ National Park, at an altitude of approximately 1,840 meters, has plenty of oxygen thanks to the blue cedar trees that create a magnificent view. Thanks to the second largest lake in Turkiye, Beyşehir, located in the south, thanks to the winds blowing from the lake, more oxygenated and productive air is formed. There are also bungalow houses, tents, and camping alternatives for staying in Kızıldağ. There are trekking spots for climbing and hiking lovers to the Büyük Sivri Hill in the National Park.
Munzur Valley National Park, Ovacik / Tunceli
Munzur Valley National Park, which is spread over an area of approximately 42 thousand hectares, reached the lush Munzur Mountains during the valley. It has been declared a national park thanks to its river sources, wide endemic plant varieties, and wild animal species. As you know, due to the harsh continental climate in Tunceli, it is possible to perform sportive activities such as fishing, trekking, rafting, and mountaineering, especially from the end of May to the beginning of October, instead of winter conditions.
Uludağ National Park, Uludağ / Bursa
Uludağ National Park, which is the favorite of ski enthusiasts from both our country and the world, is next. Uludağ, which is almost the symbol of Bursa province, has drawn attention as a region where skiing can be done since the 1930s. Winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice skating can be practiced. It is possible to come across nature animals such as wild boars, wild cats, badgers, jackals, foxes, and wolves in the national park.
Spil Mountain National Park, Manisa
Spil Mountain National Park is one of Turkiye’s oxygen stores and one of the regions that have left its mark on natural landscapes with its lush forests. In addition to its picturesque beauty under the snow in winter, it is also a favorite of captors with its lush forests in summer and spring. There are chalets, country cafes, cafes, and picnic areas in the Atalanı area of the National Park. In addition, visitors can stay in chalets or in their own tents and caravans.
Beyşehir Lake National Park, Beyşehir / Konya
Beyşehir Lake and its region are entitled to be a national park with an area of more than 80 thousand hectares. Especially the sunset in Beyşehir Lake, with its duration and unique colors, has managed to be among the few sunset beauties in the world. Right next to the national park, there are Eflatun Spring and Monuments, the wooden Eşrefoğlu Mosque and complex, which date back to the Hittites. There are also forested areas, streams and reeds, scrub, and marsh areas within the national park.
Kazdağı National Park, Edremit / Balikesir
Although Kazdağları villages and magnificent holiday paradise come to mind when Kazdağları is mentioned, Kazdağı National Park is again one of the magnificent spots full of oxygen in Turkiye. It is possible to set up tents and camp at the allowed points within the National Park. The region, which is also known for its world-famous olive oils, has written its name as one of the few oxygen-producing regions in the world. In the area with daily use areas, you can take nature walks and end the day with a picnic.
Mount Nemrut National Park, Kahta / Adıyaman
Mount Nemrut National Park, which has an ancient city belonging to the Kingdom of Commagene, also contains monumental sculptures and pyramids built on the skirts of Mount Nemrut at an altitude of 2,150 meters. Let’s also mention that there are creatures such as oak trees, bears, wolves, and jackals. One should not return without seeing the Cendere Bridge, which was built from a single arch on two main rocks. Those who wish to stay in the region can benefit from the pensions in the Nemrut Mountain region.
Saklıkent National Park, Antalya – Muğla Border
Saklıkent Canyon, which was formed because of erosion by Karaçay Stream, a branch of Eşen Stream, is between two mountains and is quite high. In the national park, where the canyon is located, it is possible to do rafting and trekking, which is one of the best in the world.
