Where is Sapanca?
Sapanca is a lake town in Sakarya province, about 150 km east of Istanbul. Maşukiye is a village in the forest nearby, known for its streams, waterfalls and riverside restaurants. Kartepe, a mountain with a cable car, is close as well.
How to get there
By private car the drive takes about two hours each way, depending on traffic. A private Mercedes Vito with Istanbul VIP costs €175 for the whole day and the whole vehicle, up to 6 passengers.
Group bus tours are cheaper per person but follow a fixed plan and leave from set points.
What to do
Walk along the lake and have a coffee on the shore. In Maşukiye, eat by the river, walk to the waterfalls and try the activities: ATV rides, giant swing, zipline. On the way back you can stop in İzmit.
Best time to go
Spring and autumn for the colours, summer for the shade of the forest, winter for snow on Kartepe. Weekends are busier; weekdays are quieter.
Spellings
You may see Sapanca written as Sapanja, Sabanca or Sapança, and Maşukiye as Masukiye or Mashukiye.
How far is Sapanca from Istanbul?
About 150 km, around two hours by car each way.
How much is a private car to Sapanca?
€175 for a Mercedes Vito with driver for the whole day, up to 6 passengers.