Small and Boutique Hotels in Sapanca Lake
Sapanca hotels, with their magnificent views overlooking Sapanca Lake, can be a suitable option for your weekend getaways, especially in the fall and winter months. Sapanca is a district of Sakarya, located in the west of the city. Sapanca Lake with its magnificent view has made this district a tourism paradise. With its nature surrounded by lush green trees and the beauties of the lake, Sapanca is a town worth seeing. Sapanca hotels, open for service in all seasons of the year, host many local tourists every season. The density of the hotels increases especially on weekends. The most beautiful period of the town and Sapanca Lake is autumn... Sapanca hotels and Sapanca bungalow houses usually serve bed and breakfast or half board. In addition to the big hotels in Sapanca, boutique and small hotels are generally concentrated. Some of the Sapanca hotels are family-run. Therefore, they offer their guests a more intimate holiday environment. When you stay in Sapanca hotels, even if it is a short weekend getaway, it will be very good for you. You will feel rested with the nature and the tranquility of the lake. If you want to stay in Sapanca hotels, which serve intensively during the winter months and weekends, do not forget to make a reservation. You can browse our website to find the most suitable Sapanca hotel for your budget and taste.
When to Visit Sapanca?
Summer is the ideal time to visit Sapanca Lake for water sports, hiking, and enjoying nature.
How to Get to Sapanca?
You can reach Sapanca by car, bus, or train. If you're taking the bus, after arriving in Adapazarı, you can use local transportation to reach Sapanca in about 20-25 minutes. Some cities also have direct bus routes to Sapanca.
If you're using the train, you can take the trains that arrive in Adapazarı and from there, continue to Sapanca.
If you're driving, the easiest option for those coming from Istanbul is to use the TEM highway. Here’s the travel time from different cities:
- Sakarya - Sapanca: about 25 km, 30 minutes
- Istanbul - Sapanca: about 135 km, 1 hour 45 minutes
- Eskisehir - Sapanca: about 185 km, 2 hours 15 minutes
- Ankara - Sapanca: about 320 km, 3 hours
- Bursa - Sapanca: about 165 km, 2 hours 10 minutes
- Izmir - Sapanca: about 490 km, 6 hours 15 minutes
Must-Visit Places in Sapanca
When you arrive in Sapanca, the first place to see is Sapanca Lake. You can take a nice walk around the lake, enjoy the greenery, and admire the diversity of nature.
You can also explore the historical mosques, inns, and baths left over from the Ottoman era in Sapanca's town center. You can visit Rahime Sultan Mosque and its tuğra (calligraphy), and the Rüstem Paşa Mosque built by the vizier of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent.
In the town center, there are tombs from the Byzantine period on display in front of the Government Building. You can also visit about 60 historical houses from the 1800s, which are considered museum houses.
Don’t forget to visit the Vecihi Arch, built by Mimar Sinan, located in the town center.
Another beautiful and charming village of Sapanca is Maşukiye. As its name suggests, you’ll fall in love with the beauty of this village.
If you're visiting in winter, you can go to Kartepe for a snowy experience and enjoy skiing.
Another nearby location worth visiting is Derbent, which is as famous for its natural beauty as Sapanca.
You can also visit Kırkpınar, located along the shores of Sapanca Lake. It is just as beautiful and captivating as the other districts.
For a peaceful and serene time surrounded by nature, consider visiting the İstanbuldere area, where you can unwind amidst the sounds of birds.
On Fridays, you can visit the local market in Sapanca, and on Saturdays, you can visit the Kırkpınar market.
You can take a walk in Uzunkum and Ormanya, buy natural cosmetic products from Otama Balsam (Health Ministry approved), enjoy coffee in Lulus, and buy decorative items from Ugurlu Dükkan and taste their delicious desserts.
You can also visit the nearby towns of Taraklı and Göynük, both Slow Cities, and enjoy nature walks in the region's highlands.
Lastly, you can take a stroll down Kırkpınar’s Baghdad Street.
Shopping Recommendations in Sapanca
Tea Houses and Cafés: Sapanca's cozy tea houses and cafés are ideal places to experience local flavors and relax in a peaceful environment. You can buy local handmade products and souvenirs here as well.
Eco Markets: The eco markets in Sapanca are great places to find organic and natural products. You can purchase organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products, honey, and olive oil, among other healthy and natural items.
Entertainment Recommendations in Sapanca
Boat Tours: Taking a boat tour on Sapanca Lake is a great way to explore the stunning scenery. You can enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the lake and the nearby mountains.
Water Sports: Sapanca Lake offers an ideal environment for water sports. You can engage in sailing, canoeing, kayaking, or even rent a jet ski for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Nature Walks: There are many hiking trails around Sapanca, where you can discover the region's natural beauty and enjoy the fresh air.
Horseback Riding: You can also participate in horseback riding tours in Sapanca. Enjoy a relaxing ride through nature and take in the area's breathtaking views.
History of Sapanca
The history of Sapanca dates back to ancient times. The modern settlement gradually developed, and the area has hosted various civilizations throughout history. There are remnants from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The area gained importance during the Ottoman Empire, and various settlement policies were implemented to create settlements. In the late 19th century, Sapanca’s natural beauty and cool climate caught the attention of wealthy families from Istanbul, and the region became a popular destination for summer houses and hunting lodges. During the Republican period, Sapanca's tourism potential grew even further. The construction of tourist facilities and accommodations along the lake shore increased. Today, Sapanca is a major tourist destination, attracting both domestic and international visitors due to its proximity to Istanbul and its natural beauty.
What Sapanca is Famous For
Nature Walks and Trekking Routes: Sapanca is known for its natural beauty, with many hiking and trekking routes. The Gölcük, Kartepe, and Sakarya River trails are particularly popular among nature lovers.
Natural Parks and Picnic Areas: Sapanca is famous for its green spaces, parks, and picnic areas. It's ideal for having a picnic and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Thermal Springs: There are many thermal springs around Sapanca, which offer visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot waters.
Best Things to Do in Sapanca
When you arrive in Sapanca, the first thing you should do is take a lovely morning walk or a sunset stroll along the lake shore (Sapanca Harmanlık walking path). You can also ride a bike if you prefer. A morning walk in the fresh air with the magnificent lake view will surely make you feel great.
Afterward, you can have a nice breakfast either at one of the lakeside facilities or at your hotel.
During the day, you can take a tour of Sapanca’s town center, explore the streets, and shop at the local bazaar. Be sure to take lots of photos!
You can also visit the historical remnants and artifacts from the Byzantine period, including tombs and inscriptions. Don’t miss the Vecihi Arch, believed to have been built by Mimar Sinan, and the Rüstem Paşa and Rahime Sultan Mosques.
For water sports enthusiasts, Sapanca Lake offers perfect conditions for various activities like water skiing, canoeing, catamaran sailing, and windsurfing.
You can also explore nearby Maşukiye, Derbent, and Kırkpınar for hiking, cycling, or a peaceful picnic. You can even rent a boat or pedal boat.
If you're visiting in winter, don't miss Kartepe for skiing and enjoying the snowy landscapes.
For a local delicacy, you can enjoy a delicious trout meal along the lake shore or in Maşukiye.
Top Things to Do Take a walk along Bağdat Street, the greenest street in Sapanca, and try activities like ziplining for those who enjoy alternative sports. You can also enjoy nature walks in Maşukiye or along the stream at İstanbuldere.
For adventure lovers, there are ATV safaris, zip biking, paintball, hiking, and water skiing at Kartepe Sukaypark!
Sapanca Eating - Drinking Suggestions
Best Breakfasts in Sapanca
Uğurlu Dükkan, Beta Home Gölevi Ortanca Restaurant, Heinz, Menzara Restaurant, Sasa Harmanlık, Titiz Grill, Menzara Restaurant (for those who like natural products and local dishes for breakfast).
Cafe / Dessert
Uğurlu Dükkan, Matranç (ice cream), and those who love dessert should definitely try the different cakes of Lulus Sapanca
Dinner
You can try İskele Cafe and Restaurant. Seasonally delicious seafood and meat dishes are recommended. There is also live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. It is recommended to make a reservation. It is recommended to try especially the oreo pudding at Adı Bahçe Sapanca. Eker lokantası (high price but first on tripadvisor), Atıştır (medium price and delicious), İskele Restaurant, (especially leaf liver is recommended)
Beta Home Gölevi serves lunch and dinner. Goulash, oven lamb with mint, fish in paper, roasted red pepper salad with tahini and pistachio and pumpkin cup are among the most popular winter dishes.
Sasa Harmanlık is a place famous for its breakfast. The restaurant's menu includes both Italian and Turkish dishes. It has a magnificent view. You can have breakfast or dinner with this view.
Naturkoy, which is a very beautiful and fun place where families with children can have a very pleasant time with their children, is also built on a magnificent area. In this area, there is a continuously flowing stream and a lush green land. In addition to the food, there are activities especially designed for children. One of them is children's parks. Another is clowns. In the place, you can enjoy the most delicious grilled products accompanied by this beautiful view.