Culture & Travel
8 October 2023For photography enthusiasts, the autumn season holds a unique allure. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of leaves scattered across the landscape is truly priceless. Autumn, a precursor to winter and a season of romance for many, also beckons photography aficionados. The vibrant images that unfold will undoubtedly find their way into people's frames this year, just as they do every year. While there are established routes for seasoned autumn photographers, we've curated some of our favorite locales for those seeking to explore new places and capture the distinctive essence of fall. Here are our recommended routes to immortalize the autumn landscape through your camera lens:
Bolu, Yedigöller
Bolu's Yedigöller is an enchanting place that mesmerizes all who behold it. Especially during the fall, Yedigöller is inundated with visitors and stands as one of the purest and most pristine regions. Amidst Yedigöller, where you can witness numerous large and small lakes, you'll have ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photos and create lasting memories.
Ankara, Kızılcahamam
If you reside in Ankara or have previously visited the city, Kızılcahamam will be a familiar name to you. Soğuksu National Park in Kızılcahamam attracts photography enthusiasts every fall. As it's also in close proximity to the Bolu border, you can explore natural areas on the Bolu side as well. Given the perfect forest climate of Kızılcahamam and Bolu, you'll want to capture plenty of photos here to add to your collection.
Istanbul's Atatürk Arboretum
Despite Istanbul's bustling and chaotic nature, you can escape the commotion to capture splendid fall photos. The Istanbul Arboretum is nestled in Sarıyer. This Arboretum offers an ideal retreat for those looking to connect with nature right in the heart of the city and presents a unique opportunity for photography. Besides photographing the lush surroundings, you can also explore the live plant museum and enjoy quality time with your family and friends.
İğneada Floodplain Forests
İğneada Floodplain Forests, a popular destination throughout the year, reveal their true beauty in the fall. This forested area offers not only photo opportunities but also a range of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, trekking, canoeing, swimming, and cycling, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its natural splendor.
Artvin, Şavşat
Şavşat, one of Türkiye's most tranquil locations, captivates visitors with its natural wonders. Especially popular among hikers, this place reveals the most enchanting aspects of autumn. You'll forever remember the sight of green and red leaves, and you'll surely recommend it to your loved ones. This destination attracts both local and international tourists each year.
Kartepe, Maşukiye
Kartepe Maşukiye, located in Kocaeli, is a frequented spot for photographers, thanks to its proximity to Istanbul. Maşukiye boasts nearly everything you could desire in a natural setting – national parks, streams, nature reserves, recreational areas, and more. Here, you can both witness the magnificent vistas of Maşukiye and indulge in photography, all while having a splendid time with your family or friends.
Sakarya, Sapanca
Sapanca Lake in Adapazarı is a standout destination for experiencing the beauty of autumn. This oxygen-rich area, surrounded by lush forests, is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You'll find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the lake and the surrounding forests. Additionally, Sapanca offers a range of outdoor activities, including boating on the lake, ATV riding, cycling, and picnicking in the scenic areas.
Kastamonu Küre Mountains
Renowned for its canyons, this oxygen-rich region ranks among the most ideal locales for photography. Protected by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the area boasts an exceptional diversity of plant species. What makes the Küre Mountains truly exceptional is how they take on unique colors with each passing season. Whether it's the snow-capped mountains in winter or the rushing streams in spring, you'll certainly want to include this destination on your list.
İstanbul Belgrad Forest
The Belgrade Forest, which spans across the Sarıyer and Eyüpsultan districts of Istanbul, is a fantastic spot to capture the beauty of fall. You can stroll through the Belgrade Forest, immerse yourself in its natural splendor, and capture the most breathtaking moments with your camera. Additionally, there are nine nature parks and national parks within the Belgrade Forest that you can explore.
İstanbul, Kuzguncuk
Kuzguncuk, one of Istanbul's most nostalgic neighborhoods, offers picturesque fall scenes that you'll definitely want to photograph. Its colorful houses, charming streets, cobblestone pathways, and houses with bay windows are just a few of the delights awaiting you in Kuzguncuk. You can also relax and enjoy a beverage at the cozy cafes lining the streets.
Bursa, Trilye
Trilye, one of the most enchanting villages in Bursa, promises visitors a magnificent experience. The historical streets leading to the sea, in particular, will captivate you. During the fall season, you won't be able to resist taking photos of these historic houses. And don't forget to savor a local mixed breakfast while you're in Trilye.
İzmir Karagöl Nature Park
Located 40 kilometers from the center of Izmir, this exquisite nature park is a top choice for autumn photographers. The park also offers camping and picnic areas, attracting visitors from Izmir and its surroundings. Keep this beautiful park in mind as a prime location for capturing the beauty of autumn.