Routes to Discover in Autumn

When the weather starts to turn cold, the heating comes on at home, and the trio of blanket, book and coffee makes its reappearance. For a restless traveller, autumn is the perfect season for exploration. Outside, nature prepares for winter, displaying its colours one by one; a tableau of yellows, oranges, reds and browns. Is it possible to just sit and watch these scenes? Of course not. If your answer to the question ‘Are you ready to hit the road?’ is ‘Yes,’ then here are the beauties that await you:

The autumn routes across our country are like treasures. Bolu's Abant Lake offers a peaceful escape with its calm waters and surrounding forests. Yedigöller National Park, with its seven lakes and vast green spaces, is an ideal stop for those seeking to escape Istanbul and its surroundings. In Artvin, Şavşat and Karagöl offer a captivating atmosphere for travellers wishing to walk among wooden houses and colourful forests. Observing nature's changing hues with every step provides a soul-soothing adventure. On the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, the quiet streets of Bozcaada allow you to enjoy autumn with wine tastings among the vineyards. Alaçatı, with its stone houses and gentle breeze, is ideal for walking accompanied by a slight coolness from the sea. Bodrum retains its charm in autumn for those who still want to enjoy the sun and sea. Around Istanbul, Ağva, Polonezköy and Beykoz are perfect for escaping the city, offering both nature walks and a tranquil atmosphere. In Ağva, walks by the lakes and riverside, the tranquillity of village life in Polonezköy, and the forest trails in Beykoz soothe the soul. The historical and natural texture of the Black Sea also offers a unique beauty in autumn. Safranbolu's narrow streets and Ottoman architecture take you on a journey into the past. Cumalıkızık's stone houses and village life, combined with the tranquillity of autumn, offer an unforgettable experience. Whether domestic or international, places to visit in autumn tell a different story to each visitor. All that remains is to pack your bags, book your flight, and set off on your holiday plans. For those who wish to feel the magic of autumn and lose themselves in the colours and landscapes, these routes offer an unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on your own journey through nature's autumn palette.

Autumn Routes to Discover

1. MC Sapanca, Sapanca
2. Sadef Akkonak, Amasra
3. Kefi Beach & Suites, Bodrum
4. Habitat Mesire Bungalow Houses Yedigöller, Bolu Mengen
5. Babil Bungalow Hotel, Kartepe Maşukiye
6. Yeşil Çizme Nature House, Safranbolu
7. Redpine Guest House, Lake İznik
8. Saliha Hanım Taş Konak, Birgi
9. İksir Resort Town Daday, Kastamonu
10. Büyükada Glamping, Büyükada

MC Sapanca

MC Sapanca, located in the heart of Sapanca, offers a nature-immersed holiday experience. Its bungalows are thoughtfully designed for comfort, surrounded by lush greenery and private gardens within the forest. Wooden floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and high ceilings combined with a bohemian touch make your stay unforgettable. Here, you can fully embrace nature, breathe in the fresh air, and admire every shade of green around you. MC Sapanca is not only visually stunning but also prioritizes guest happiness. Its warm and friendly atmosphere, breathtaking views, and the sense of calm you feel with each deep breath are central to the experience. From the bungalows to communal areas, gardens, cafes, and relaxation spaces, every detail is designed for your comfort. As a pet-friendly hotel, it also allows you to enjoy time with your furry companions. Staying here is not just a vacation; it’s a heartfelt, peaceful, and nature-connected experience. Including MC Sapanca in your “Autumn Routes to Explore” list means more than discovering a place it’s about reconnecting with nature, slowing down, and dedicating time to yourself. Every step leaves a memory that brings you closer to peace and life itself.

Sadef Akkonak, Amasra

For a calm autumn stay where you can breathe deeply and feel rejuvenated, Sadef Akkonak is an excellent choice. Nestled within the lush greenery of the Black Sea region, this quiet cove with its red-stone buildings offers a refreshing sea breeze and a chance to rediscover your own rhythm with nature. Time here passes away from the city’s rush, with the soothing melody of waves and wind providing inner peace. Sadef Akkonak is more than just accommodation it’s also a culinary experience. Each dish, prepared with fresh ingredients carefully selected by the chef, tells a story of the flavors of the Black Sea and nature. Combined with the warm and welcoming atmosphere, every meal refreshes and relaxes you. Surrounded by the colorful palette of autumn, this small haven is perfect for travelers who want to reconnect with nature and soothe the soul. Strolling along paths lined with golden leaves or sitting by the sea, stress slowly melts away. Every moment at Sadef Akkonak is not only a comfortable stay but also a journey back to your own rhythm and a chance to create unforgettable memories.

Kefi Beach & Suites, Ortakent Bodrum

Located in a quiet corner of Bodrum, just 100 meters from the sea, Kefi Beach & Suites offers a peaceful autumn retreat amidst green gardens. With private entrances and balconies, guests feel at home in this rare setting for those seeking a nature-connected, relaxed, and welcoming stay in Bodrum. For years, it has maintained its signature warmth and attention, making every guest feel special. The rooms feature tasteful simplicity with white décor, reflecting Bodrum’s charm. Garden-floor rooms have private seating areas, family-connected rooms, and balcony suites all prioritize comfort and convenience. Independent garden-floor rooms are ideal for guests traveling with pets, while safe shared gardens offer additional comfort for families. Kefi’s restaurant is a highlight of a Bodrum stay. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared dishes while enjoying the sea, including grilled frankfurters, oat-crusted cheese balls, fried calamari, wood-fired pizzas, tahini pide, grilled octopus, hamburgers, and cocktails and craft beers during happy hours. Healthy options such as fresh artichoke garden salad, quinoa salad, and cheese summer salad are also available, alongside Bodrum’s famous stone oven lahmacun. Run by a native Bodrum family, the hotel offers music events and unique culinary experiences, making your stay not only relaxing but also full of discovery and joy. In autumn, Kefi Beach & Suites is perfect for experiencing Bodrum’s tranquil atmosphere, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying moments by the sea. Every moment spent here rejuvenates the soul through Bodrum’s colors, flavors, and warmth.

Habitat Mesire Bungalov Evleri, Yedigöller

Situated in the heart of Bolu-Yedigöller National Park, Habitat Mesire Bungalov Evleri is a perfect destination for nature-loving travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. While the park is beautiful year-round, autumn transforms it into a vibrant canvas, captivating visitors with its reds, oranges, and yellows. Forests, quiet lakes, and tranquil walking paths enchant nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy oxygen-rich walks, picturesque photo opportunities, waterfalls along hiking trails, and the seven stunning lakes. Highlights include smiling rocks, the Pythagoras Tree, and scenic viewpoints offering close encounters with hundreds of tree and plant species. Guests can also observe wildlife, fully immersing themselves in nature. The bungalows accommodate six guests, equipped with a double bed, two single beds, and an L-shaped sofa. There are no TVs or other technology, and kitchens are not included, emphasizing a true mountain cabin and bungalow experience. With no nearby stores, preparing in advance is recommended. Evenings by the fire in front of your bungalow allow for serene conversation and enjoyment of fresh air. Choosing Habitat Mesire Bungalov Evleri in autumn is not just about staying overnight it’s about experiencing the colors, tranquility, and peace of nature. Time spent here provides a restorative break from city life and a chance to reconnect with the natural world.

Babil Bungalow Hotel, Kartepe

Babil Bungalow Hotel is nestled in the lush nature of Kartepe, surrounded by lake and mountain views, filled with birdsong and fresh air. Upon arrival, the noise and rush of the city instantly fade away, leaving only the rhythm and calm of nature. The single-story wooden bungalows are spacious and comfortable; bedrooms and bathrooms provide a relaxing stay, while the charming verandas in front of each house allow guests to enjoy the scenery all day long. The wide lawns in front, combined with swings and hammocks, offer spaces to read a book or simply savor moments immersed in nature. Time seems to pass unnoticed here. Morning breakfasts are served à la carte, and the warm dishes served on ceramic tiles become almost a ritual to start the day. Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to capture nature’s vibrant colors. As the closest lake-view and cozy hotel to Kartepe Ski Center, Babil Bungalow allows guests to experience the vivid hues of autumn up close. You can take walks by the lake, sip tea on the veranda, and enjoy a peaceful retreat with yourself. Every moment spent here leaves a lasting impression on both your eyes and soul.

Yeşil Çizme Nature House, Safranbolu

Waking up in Yeşil Çizme, Safranbolu feels like leaving the city behind and surrendering to nature’s embrace. The surroundings evoke a sense of starting anew: trees offer tiny fruits, the soil smells fragrant, and every breath restores a long-lost piece of oneself. Being so far from urban life is both startling and rejuvenating. Long daytime walks feel like therapy. Every step in Tokatlı, Horma, Valla, and Şeker Canyons is mesmerizing. Small waterfalls along the way invite you to slow down, which is exactly why you’re here. Yeşil Çizme allows you to escape the city’s pace and rediscover your own rhythm. Local cuisine is also a highlight: Safranbolu’s famous Peruhi, a light vegetarian dumpling with yogurt and mint, is a delightful surprise. I also indulged in minced meat börek and spinach pide at Kilcioğlu Pide crispy, slightly charred, and exactly as I liked. For pet owners, the garden is home to two dogs, Luna and Sole, who are friendly but protective; prior introduction is required, and unfortunately, cats are not accepted. Though Safranbolu has no coastline, a short trip to Amasra allows for a seaside experience. Returning to Yeşil Çizme after dinner with fresh fish completes the perfect day. Every moment here relaxes both body and soul, making it ideal for connecting with nature, walking, tasting new flavors, and living fully in the present.

Redpine Guest House, İznik, Bursa

Redpine Guest House, located in the Çamoluk neighborhood of İznik, offers a serene escape surrounded by nature. Set among red pine trees, it is ideal for those seeking respite from urban chaos. The property consists of six standalone wooden houses, each offering comfortable living spaces. Interiors are warm and spacious, with fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and barbecue areas to ensure a pleasant and relaxing stay. The garden and open-air yoga platform provide a perfect setting for spending time immersed in nature. In autumn, Redpine’s surroundings transform into a picturesque scene with golden leaves and crisp air. Guests can take peaceful walks, enjoy the evening by the lake, and listen to the sounds of nature. As a pet-friendly property, it allows you to share this tranquility with your four-legged companions. Staying here is not just about accommodation—it’s about rejuvenating the soul, clearing your mind, and reconnecting with nature. Redpine Guest House is an ideal choice for exploring İznik’s unique beauty, embracing tranquility, and creating unforgettable memories. Every moment in these autumn-colored houses reminds guests of nature’s restorative power.

Saliha Hanım Stone Mansion, Birgi

Saliha Hanım Stone Mansion perfectly blends the warmth and comfort of home with historical charm. Built in the 1920s using stone and wood, it has been carefully restored and opened to visitors. As a fine example of Republican-era houses listed as cultural heritage, the mansion is one of Birgi’s rare historic structures. Decor is natural and handcrafted, with no industrial or mass-produced items. Most details were created by local artisans, giving each corner a sense of historical authenticity while radiating warmth and hospitality. In autumn, the mansion transforms beautifully. Yellowing leaves and crisp air create the feeling of sitting in a painting, and with birdsong accompanying your tea, you can fully experience the calm of Republican-era homes and Birgi’s history. Walking the narrow streets, exploring old stone paths, and tasting local delicacies make the experience unforgettable. Saliha Hanım Stone Mansion is a retreat where history and nature meet, offering rest for the soul and a chance to reconnect with yourself.

İksir Resort Town Daday, Kastamonu

Located in the heart of Butterfly Valley in Daday, Kastamonu, İksir Resort Town is a living village designed for those who want to “be reborn every day.” Staying in the historic İksir Hanım Mansion, the village has 60 rooms and offers activities suitable for all ages and interests. Guests can relax, seek adventure, or enjoy educational and entertaining experiences. The property is fully licensed for accommodation and carefully designed. Its farm offers local and international cuisine, a 250-person restaurant, and a disco area, providing diverse experiences. Equipped meeting rooms for 25 and 100 people and over 50 activity options—including horseback riding and safaris, ATV and jeep tours, trekking, fishing, mushroom tours, cycling trips, carriage rides, barbecues, and local excursions ensure each day is unique. In autumn, İksir Resort Town transforms with golden leaves, cooler air, and scenic valley views. Morning walks offer silent encounters with nature and birdsong, while daytime activities energize guests. The resort is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying full and varied experiences every day.

Büyükada Glamping, Istanbul

Büyükada Glamping is a truly special destination for those who want to fully experience the tranquillity of autumn. When you stay in the glamping tents nestled among the pine trees, you feel the serenity of nature while also enjoying the freshness of the sea. Located in the Yörükali area, just a few steps from the sea, this tranquil corner is a wonderful opportunity for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and catch their breath. The rooms are spacious and comfortable; some even have a jacuzzi. Waking up to the chirping of birds among the pine trees in the morning, breathing in the fresh air with the gentle autumn breeze, makes every moment spent here special. Throughout the day, you can explore the island on foot, cycle around, or simply savour the pleasure of slowing down while watching the sunset by the sea. Büyükada Glamping is not just a place to stay; it is a place where you become one with nature, relax your soul, and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. An unforgettable experience awaits you, where you can feel the tranquillity offered by the pine trees and the sea, accompanied by the yellowing leaves of autumn and the slightly cooler air.

Don't forget to check out our list of the Best Places to Take Photos in Autumn for inspiration to capture the enchanting colours of autumn.