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The Environs of Эstanbul
The Princes' Islands, an archipelago of nine islands in
the Sea of Marmara, were places of exile for Byzantine princes.
Today, during the summer months, Эstanbul's wealthy, escape
to their cool sea breezes, and elegant l9th century houses.
Bьyьkada is the largest of the islands. Here you can enjoy
a ride in a horse-drawn phaeton (carriage) among the pine
trees, or relax on a beach in one of the numerous coves
that ring the island. The other popular islands are Kinali,
Sedef, Burgaz and Heybeliada. Regular ferry boats connect
the islands with both the European and Asian shores. A faster
sea bus service operates from Kabatas in the summer.
On the European side of the Black Sea coast, 25 km from
the outskirts of Эstanbul, Kilyos's long, broad sandy beaches
draw crowds of Эstanbul residents in the summer months.
The Belgrad Forest, inland from the Black Sea on the European
side, is the largest forest around Эstanbul. On weekends,
Эstanbulites drive out to its shade for family picnics and
barbecues. Seven ancient reservoirs and a number of natural
springs refresh the air. The Ottoman aqueducts, of which
the l6th Century Moglova Aqueduct built by Sinan is the
most splendid, lend a majesty to the natural surroundings.
Overshadowing the entrance to Kemer Golf and Country Club
is the 800-meter-long Sultan Sьleyman Aqueduct, also built
by Sinan; it is one of the longest in Turkey. The 500-stable
Equestrian Center offers trail riding.
On the Asian side, Polonezkцy, 25 km from Эstanbul,
was founded in the l9th century by Polish immigrants. Эstanbul
residents come to its pastoral landscape for walks, horseback
riding and to enjoy the traditional Polish food served by
descendants of the original settlers. On the Black Sea,
70 km from Ьskьdar, Sile's sandy beaches, fish
restaurants and hotels make it one of the most delightful
holiday places near Эstanbul. Sile bezi, cool cotton clothing,
popular with tourists, is fashioned here.
The Bayramoglu-Darica Bird's Paradise and Botanic Park,
38 km from Эstanbul, is a unique rest area; many species
of birds and plants from all over the world can be seen
in this huge park, which also has restaurants and a promenade
for pedestrians.
The charming fishing town of Eskihisar, southeast of Эstanbul,
boasts a marina where yachtsmen can moor their boats after
a day out in the Sea of Marmara. In town, the house of Osman
Hamdi Bey, Turkey's great l9th century painter, has been
converted into a museum. Neighboring sites include the tomb
of Hannibal between Eskihisar and Gebze, and a Byzantine
castle.
Many Эstanbulites have summer homes near Silivri, the popular
vacation area about 65 km from Эstanbul. A large holiday
resort, it offers everything from casinos to sporting, health
and fitness facilities, including the Klassis Country and
Golf Club, to excellent dining. The conference center attracts
business people who escape the city's fast pace for a working
holiday. A regular sea bus service connects Эstanbul to
Silivri.
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