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Forest Trails, Waterfalls and Highland Nature Above Çınarcık

Yalova City Forest – Visitor Guide

Explore a 95-hectare forest landscape near Erikli Plateau,
with walking trails, waterfalls, viewing terraces, a suspension bridge and rich woodland wildlife.

Explore Yalova City Forest

Yalova City Forest – A Green Escape in the Erikli Highlands

Yalova City Forest, known in Turkish as Yalova Kent Ormanı, is one of the province’s most rewarding destinations for forest walks, waterfalls, viewpoints and outdoor recreation. It lies in the Çınarcık district, near Teşvikiye and within the Erikli Plateau landscape.

Official visitor information states that the forest was arranged and opened for public use in 2005. It covers approximately 95 hectares and is located around 29 kilometres from Yalova city centre.

The forest is much more than a picnic area. Visitors can explore an approximately 2 km walking trail, viewing terraces, a suspension bridge, children’s play areas, sports areas, picnic spaces and the Erikli Double Waterfalls.

The woodland itself is a major attraction. Beech, oak, black pine, chestnut, hornbeam, linden and other species create a varied Marmara forest, while the wider habitat supports birds, squirrels, foxes, wild boar and other wildlife.

95 ha

Official sources describe Yalova City Forest as covering approximately 95 hectares.

2 km Trail

A roughly 2 km walking route allows visitors to explore the forest on foot.

2005

The city forest was arranged and opened for public use in 2005.

29 km

The forest is approximately 29 km from Yalova city centre.

Know Before You Go

Yalova City Forest – Quick Facts

Essential information for planning a nature day in one of Yalova’s best-known forest recreation areas.

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Location

Erikli Plateau area, Teşvikiye, Çınarcık district, Yalova.

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Type

Public forest recreation and nature-tourism area.

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Size

Approximately 95 hectares according to official visitor information.

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Opened

Arranged and opened for public use in 2005.

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Distance

Approximately 29 km from Yalova city centre.

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Walking

Approximately 2 km of designated walking trail.

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Highlights

Suspension bridge, viewing terraces, waterfalls and forest scenery.

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Facilities

Picnic spaces, seating, play areas, sports areas, fountains and visitor facilities.

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Entry

Official municipal information currently lists entry as free.

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Fire Rule

Lighting fires is not permitted inside the city forest.

Yalova Beyond the Coast and Thermal Springs

Why Yalova City Forest Is Special

Yalova City Forest brings together waterfalls, woodland, walking, viewpoints and family recreation in one compact highland landscape.

Yalova is often associated with thermal waters, Marmara Sea scenery and Atatürk heritage, but the province also rises quickly into densely forested hills. Yalova City Forest is one of the easiest places for visitors to experience this greener side of the province.

Its appeal comes from variety. A visitor can walk through mature woodland, cross a suspension bridge, pause at viewing terraces, relax in designated recreation areas and continue toward Erikli Double Waterfall without leaving the wider forest landscape.

Official sources also describe a notably diverse natural environment. The forest contains a mixture of beech, black pine, oak, chestnut, hornbeam, maple, plane, alder and linden, together with shrubs and woodland plants.

Because the forest combines structured visitor facilities with a genuine natural setting, it works equally well for short family outings, photography, gentle walking and longer nature-focused visits.

Above Teşvikiye in the Forested Hills

Where Is Yalova City Forest?

Yalova City Forest is located in Çınarcık district, within the boundaries of Teşvikiye and the Erikli Plateau landscape.

Official visitor information places the forest approximately 29 kilometres from Yalova city centre. The main approach from Yalova follows the coast toward Çınarcık before turning inland through Teşvikiye.

The route climbs away from the Marmara shoreline into cooler, more heavily wooded terrain. This change in landscape is one of the attractions of the journey itself, especially for visitors who have spent most of their time along the coast.

The forest also sits within a wider highland nature zone that includes Erikli Plateau, Erikli Double Waterfall, Delmece Plateau and the Dipsiz Lakes.

Province Yalova
District Çınarcık
Nearest Settlement Teşvikiye
Highland Area Erikli Plateau
From Yalova Centre Approximately 29 km
Created for Public Recreation in Nature

The Story of Yalova City Forest

Official tourism information states that Yalova City Forest was arranged in 2005 and opened for public use. The forest covers an area of approximately 95 hectares.

The site falls within the forestry administration area of Çınarcık and was developed to meet public recreation needs while retaining the character of the surrounding woodland.

This explains the combination visitors see today: natural forest and waterfalls alongside walking paths, viewing areas, seating, picnic spaces and recreational facilities.

The city-forest concept is not the same as an urban park. Although visitor infrastructure is present, the landscape remains a real forest environment with wildlife, uneven ground, seasonal weather and changing trail conditions.

2005

The year official sources give for the forest’s arrangement and opening to the public.

95 Hectares

A substantial forest recreation area rather than a small municipal garden.

Nature + Recreation

Walking and family facilities are integrated into a genuine woodland environment.

Highland Setting

The forest lies in the Erikli Plateau landscape above the Marmara coast.

Woodland, Streams and Highland Air

What Is Yalova City Forest Like?

The character of Yalova City Forest comes from the meeting of dense woodland, flowing water, slopes and highland recreation areas. It feels noticeably cooler and more sheltered than exposed coastal locations during warm weather.

Tree cover creates changing light throughout the day. Open recreation spaces and viewing points are followed by shaded forest sections, while streams and waterfalls add moisture and sound to the landscape.

The terrain is not completely flat. Visitors should expect inclines, natural surfaces, roots, wet leaves and occasional slippery sections, particularly after rain.

The forest changes dramatically with the seasons: fresh green growth in spring, deep shade in summer, warm foliage colours in autumn and a quieter, more open woodland appearance in winter.

A 2 km Route Through the Woodland

Walking in Yalova City Forest

Official visitor information describes an approximately 2 km walking trail inside the city forest. This gives visitors a structured way to experience the landscape beyond the main recreation areas.

The trail can be combined with viewing terraces, the suspension bridge and waterfall areas, making the walk more varied than a simple forest loop.

Conditions can change after rain. Mud, wet leaves, roots and sloping ground can make parts of the route more slippery, so closed walking shoes with reliable grip are a sensible choice.

Visitors should use marked routes where available and avoid creating shortcuts through vegetation. A visible side path is not necessarily an official or maintained trail.

2 km Trail

The official walking route is long enough for a relaxed woodland stroll without requiring a full hiking day.

Viewing Points

Pause at designated terraces to enjoy the forest landscape from safer established positions.

Wet Weather

Expect slippery leaves, mud and roots after rainfall.

Good Footwear

Walking shoes or trainers with grip are preferable to smooth-soled footwear.

The Forest’s Best-Known Natural Landmark

Erikli Double Waterfall in Yalova City Forest

One of the defining attractions of the forest is Erikli Double Waterfall, known in Turkish as Erikli Çifte Şelale.

Official sources place the waterfalls within the city-forest landscape, making it possible to combine a forest walk with one of Çınarcık’s most photographed natural attractions.

The appearance of the waterfalls changes with rainfall and season. Wetter periods can produce stronger flow, while summer emphasizes the contrast between moving water and dense shade.

Treat waterfall terrain with care. Wet rock, moss, mud, roots and stream edges can be slippery even when the main recreation areas are dry.

Explore in more detail: See our dedicated Erikli Double Waterfall guide for walking, photography, seasonal and visitor information focused specifically on the cascades.
One of the Forest’s Signature Recreation Features

Suspension Bridge and Viewing Terraces

Yalova City Forest includes a suspension bridge and viewing terraces among its official visitor facilities. These features add variety to a walk through the forest and create natural stopping points.

The bridge is part of the recreation landscape rather than a major transport crossing. For many visitors, it is one of the most memorable visual elements of the city forest.

Viewing terraces are especially useful in a steep or wooded environment, where safe open viewpoints can otherwise be limited by vegetation and terrain.

Use railings, bridges and terraces responsibly, and follow any temporary restrictions if maintenance or weather conditions affect access.

More Than a Walking Trail

Facilities at Yalova City Forest

Official tourism information lists a broad range of visitor facilities within the forest, including children’s play areas, sports areas, seating and resting areas, picnic places, toilets, fountains, drinking water points and wash facilities.

A multi-purpose hall is also included in official descriptions of the site. The availability or condition of individual facilities can change, so on-site information should always take priority.

These amenities make Yalova City Forest suitable for visitors who want more than a quick sightseeing stop. Families and groups can combine walking with a relaxed recreation break.

Picnic Areas

Designated spaces allow visitors to stop for food without leaving the recreation zone.

Children’s Areas

Play facilities make the forest easier to enjoy as a family outing.

Sports Areas

Official visitor information lists sports spaces among the recreation facilities.

Basic Amenities

Toilets, fountains, drinking water points and washing facilities are listed in official descriptions.

A Popular Outdoor Day Without Open Fire

Picnics in Yalova City Forest

The city forest includes designated picnic spaces and seating areas, making a picnic one of the easiest ways to extend a walking visit into a slower half-day outing.

Official municipal information currently states that entry is free and that lighting fires is not permitted inside the city forest.

Do not interpret the presence of picnic areas as permission to light a barbecue, campfire or other open flame. Forest-fire restrictions can also become stricter during hot, dry or windy periods.

Bring food that is easy to carry, use waste facilities where available and take all remaining rubbish away. Food waste should not be left where it can attract wildlife.

Important: The no-fire rule is part of official visitor guidance for Yalova City Forest. Always follow current signs and staff instructions on the day of your visit.
A Rich Marmara Woodland

Trees and Plant Life in Yalova City Forest

The botanical variety of the forest is one of its strongest attractions. Official information says that beech, black pine and oak are widely distributed across the area.

Smaller populations include chestnut, hornbeam, ash, maple, plane, alder, linden, wild cherry and wild plum. Together, these species create a mixed forest rather than a single-species plantation.

Official descriptions also mention shrubs and herbaceous plants such as broom, wild ivy, thyme, hypericum and strawberry tree, adding further variety close to the forest floor and open edges.

This diversity is especially visible in spring and autumn. Spring brings fresh leaves and flowering ground vegetation, while autumn produces strong colour changes across different tree species.

Beech

One of the principal tree species contributing to the forest’s cool, shaded character.

Oak

A major native woodland component with strong seasonal colour.

Black Pine

Evergreen structure contrasts with the forest’s broadleaf species.

Chestnut & Linden

Additional woodland species increase the ecological and visual diversity of the area.

A Recreation Area Inside a Real Wildlife Habitat

Wildlife in Yalova City Forest

Yalova City Forest is not only a visitor attraction. Official sources describe a broad wildlife community that includes bear, wild boar, fox, squirrel, jackal, badger, hedgehog, hare and reptiles.

The forest also supports many bird species, including woodpeckers, blackbirds, starlings, hawks, quail and other woodland birds. Birdsong is one of the most noticeable parts of a quieter morning visit.

Most visitors are far more likely to see birds, squirrels, insects or tracks than large mammals. Wild animals generally avoid busy human activity.

Do not feed wildlife, approach animals for photographs or leave food waste behind. If you encounter a larger animal, keep your distance and allow it space to move away.

Wildlife note: Keep noise moderate and children supervised. The city forest is a managed recreation area, but it remains part of a living natural habitat.
Extend the Nature Route Beyond the City Forest

Dipsiz Lakes Near Yalova City Forest

The wider Erikli highland landscape also includes the Dipsiz Lakes, two small forest lakes that can be combined with a nature-focused excursion.

Official tourism information places the larger Dipsiz Lake approximately 2.5 km from the city forest at about 530 metres elevation. The smaller lake is described as roughly 1.5 km farther away at about 570 metres elevation.

The lakes are surrounded by rich forest vegetation and wildlife habitat, adding a quieter, more secluded landscape to the better-developed recreation environment of the city forest.

If you plan to continue toward the lakes, check current road, trail and weather conditions locally. Do not assume that every forest route has the same maintenance level as the main city-forest visitor areas.

Four Seasons, Four Different Forest Moods

Best Time to Visit Yalova City Forest

Yalova City Forest can be visited in different seasons, but weather, daylight, trail condition and vegetation change the experience considerably.

Spring is excellent for fresh foliage, running water and cooler walking temperatures. Rain can leave trails muddy, so footwear matters.

Summer offers dense shade and a cooler atmosphere than many exposed coastal areas. Weekends and public holidays can be busier, especially around picnic and recreation spaces.

Autumn is one of the strongest seasons for photography, with mixed broadleaf woodland producing changing colour. Wet fallen leaves can make slopes slippery.

Winter can be peaceful and atmospheric, but shorter daylight, rain, cold and possible maintenance or access changes require more careful planning.

Spring Fresh greenery, active streams and comfortable walking temperatures
Summer Deep shade, family recreation and cooler highland air
Autumn Excellent forest colour and photography
Winter Quiet woodland scenery; check weather and access before travelling
Forest Light, Bridges, Water and Seasonal Colour

Photography in Yalova City Forest

The city forest offers a wide range of subjects within one excursion: tree canopies, walking paths, waterfalls, streams, the suspension bridge, viewing terraces, wildlife signs and seasonal foliage.

Early morning can provide quieter paths and softer light, while overcast weather often works well for woodland photography by reducing harsh contrast.

At the waterfalls, slower shutter speeds can emphasize moving water, but never place a tripod where it obstructs a narrow path or encourages you to stand on wet rock.

In autumn, look for layered colour through the mixed woodland. In spring, fresh greens, moss and flowing water create a very different visual character.

Forest Paths

Use curved paths, tree trunks and bridges to create depth in woodland compositions.

Water

Streams and waterfalls provide movement and reflections within the darker forest.

Seasonal Colour

Spring greens and autumn foliage can completely change the mood of the same viewpoint.

Wildlife

Use distance and patience rather than approaching animals for a closer photograph.

Walking, Play Areas and Outdoor Time

Visiting Yalova City Forest with Children

Yalova City Forest is well suited to family outings because official visitor information lists children’s play areas, picnic spaces, seating and recreational facilities.

Families can keep the visit simple by combining a short forest walk with the bridge, viewing areas and a picnic stop. Older children may enjoy extending the walk toward the waterfall areas.

Natural terrain still requires supervision. Children should be kept close near streams, wet rock, slopes, bridges and uneven forest surfaces.

After rain, a shorter route around established recreation areas may be more suitable than attempting every trail section.

Check Current Rules Before Staying Overnight

Camping Around Yalova City Forest

Official descriptions identify the wider Erikli area as attractive for camping, trekking and nature tourism. The highland forest setting naturally appeals to visitors who want a longer outdoor experience.

However, camping permissions, designated overnight areas and seasonal forest restrictions can change. Do not assume that a picnic space or open clearing is automatically an approved camping area.

If you plan to stay overnight, confirm current rules and the permitted location before setting up a tent.

Remember that fires are not permitted inside Yalova City Forest. Plan food, lighting and warmth without relying on an open fire.

Facilities Exist, but the Landscape Remains Natural

Accessibility at Yalova City Forest

The city forest includes developed recreational facilities, but not every part of the landscape should be expected to provide step-free or wheelchair-friendly access.

Natural areas can include slopes, gravel, roots, mud, uneven surfaces, bridge approaches and wet ground. Accessibility can also change according to weather and maintenance.

Visitors who need very short walking distances, wheelchair access or step-free routes should confirm current conditions before travelling.

Even when a waterfall route or trail section is unsuitable, some recreation and viewing areas may still be accessible, so it is worth checking which parts of the forest are currently easiest to reach.

From a Short Forest Walk to a Half-Day Nature Escape

How Much Time Do You Need at Yalova City Forest?

Allow around 60–90 minutes for a short visit focused on the main recreation area, a section of the walking trail and one or two viewpoints.

Allow around 2–3 hours for a fuller visit that includes the walking route, suspension bridge, viewing terraces and time around the waterfall landscape.

A half-day works especially well if you want to walk slowly, take photographs and enjoy a picnic or longer recreation break.

A full day can combine Yalova City Forest with Erikli Double Waterfall, the Dipsiz Lakes, Çınarcık or another Yalova nature stop.

60–90 Minutes

Main forest area, a short walk and selected viewpoints.

2–3 Hours

Walking trail, bridge, viewpoints and waterfall scenery.

Half-Day

A relaxed nature visit with photography and picnic time.

Full Day

Add Erikli, Dipsiz Lakes, Çınarcık or another nearby attraction.

Yalova – Çınarcık – Teşvikiye – Erikli Plateau

How to Get to Yalova City Forest

From Yalova, follow the coastal route toward Çınarcık and continue to Teşvikiye. From Teşvikiye, the route climbs inland toward Erikli Plateau and Yalova City Forest.

Official tourism information places the forest approximately 29 km from Yalova and describes the access road as fully asphalted.

Official sources also describe an approach from the Bursa, Gemlik and Armutlu side via Hayriye, Selimiye and Delmece Plateau.

A private car, taxi or arranged transfer usually provides the most flexibility, especially if you plan to combine the city forest with waterfalls, lakes or coastal stops.

Road conditions, parking arrangements and temporary forest access can change, so use current navigation and local signs on the day of travel.

From Yalova

Approximately 29 km via Çınarcık and Teşvikiye.

Road Surface

Official visitor information describes access to the forest as asphalted.

From Bursa Side

Official guidance also notes access through Hayriye, Selimiye and Delmece Plateau.

Navigation

Search for “Yalova Kent Ormanı” and verify the final approach with current local signs.

A Balanced First Visit

Suggested Visit to Yalova City Forest

Start from Yalova or Çınarcık and drive through Teşvikiye toward the Erikli highlands. An earlier arrival gives you more daylight for the walking areas and usually a quieter atmosphere.

Begin with the main forest walking route. Take time to notice the changing tree species, small streams and woodland light rather than treating the forest only as a route to the waterfalls.

Continue to the suspension bridge and viewing terraces, then explore Erikli Double Waterfall if trail conditions are suitable.

Finish with a break in an established picnic or recreation area. Remember that fires are not permitted inside the city forest.

1. Arrive via Teşvikiye Climb from the Marmara coast into the Erikli highlands
2. Walk the Forest Follow the designated route through the mixed woodland
3. See the Bridge & Viewpoints Add the suspension bridge and viewing terraces
4. Explore the Waterfalls Continue toward Erikli Double Waterfall if conditions are suitable
5. Relax Responsibly Use an established recreation area and leave no waste behind
Build a Wider Yalova Nature Route

Places to Visit with Yalova City Forest

The city forest can be combined with waterfalls, thermal heritage, coastal scenery and early Republican landmarks for a fuller Yalova itinerary.

Erikli Double Waterfall

Explore the paired cascades that form the best-known natural attraction inside the wider city-forest landscape.

Dipsiz Lakes

Continue into the Erikli highlands to two small forest lakes surrounded by rich vegetation.

Delmece Plateau

Extend the journey into higher forest and plateau scenery beyond the main recreation area.

Sudüşen Waterfall

Visit another of Yalova’s signature waterfall landscapes near the Termal district.

Yalova Termal Hot Springs

Exchange forest trails for the province’s historic spa landscape and mineral waters.

Termal Atatürk Mansion

Add an important early Republican heritage stop among the gardens of Termal.

Yürüyen Köşk

Continue the Atatürk story at Yalova’s famous waterfront pavilion.

Explore Yalova

Discover more forests, waterfalls, beaches, thermal landscapes and historic sites across the province.
Protect the Forest You Came to Enjoy

Responsible Visiting in Yalova City Forest

No Fires

Official visitor guidance states that lighting fires is not permitted inside the city forest.

Take Rubbish Away

Do not leave bottles, food packaging or picnic waste in the forest.

Stay on Routes

Use established paths and avoid shortcuts that damage plants or expose soil.

Respect Wildlife

Do not feed animals or approach them for photographs.

Protect Water

Keep soap, chemicals, food and rubbish out of streams and waterfall pools.

Keep Noise Moderate

A quieter visit protects wildlife and improves the experience for other visitors.

Use Safe Viewpoints

Do not climb barriers, unstable slopes or wet rock to improve a photograph.

Follow Current Rules

Weather, maintenance and forest-fire risk can temporarily change access arrangements.

Useful Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Yalova City Forest

Where is Yalova City Forest?

It is in Çınarcık district, near Teşvikiye in the Erikli Plateau area of Yalova Province.

What is Yalova City Forest called in Turkish?

Its Turkish name is Yalova Kent Ormanı.

How far is Yalova City Forest from Yalova?

Official visitor information places it approximately 29 km from Yalova city centre.

When was Yalova City Forest opened?

Official tourism information states that it was arranged and opened for public use in 2005.

How large is Yalova City Forest?

The forest covers approximately 95 hectares.

Is there a walking trail?

Yes. Official information describes an approximately 2 km walking trail.

What can I see in Yalova City Forest?

Highlights include mixed woodland, Erikli Double Waterfall, a suspension bridge, viewing terraces, walking areas and recreation facilities.

Is Erikli Double Waterfall inside Yalova City Forest?

Yes. Official sources place Erikli Double Waterfall within the wider city-forest landscape.

Is there a suspension bridge?

Yes. A suspension bridge is listed among the official recreation features of the forest.

Are there viewing terraces?

Yes. Official visitor information lists viewing terraces within the forest.

Can I picnic in Yalova City Forest?

Yes. The forest includes designated picnic and recreation areas.

Can I light a barbecue or fire?

No. Official municipal guidance states that lighting fires is not permitted inside the city forest.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yalova Municipality currently lists entry as free. Conditions can change, so check current information before travelling.

Are there facilities for children?

Yes. Official descriptions include children’s play areas among the recreation facilities.

Are there toilets and water facilities?

Official tourism information lists toilets, fountains, drinking water and washing facilities.

What trees grow in Yalova City Forest?

Principal species include beech, black pine and oak, with chestnut, hornbeam, ash, maple, plane, alder, linden and other species also recorded.

Are there wild animals in the forest?

Yes. Official sources list wildlife including bear, wild boar, fox, squirrel, jackal, badger, hare and many bird species.

Is Yalova City Forest good for birdwatching?

It can be rewarding for casual birdwatching because official sources record numerous woodland bird species in the area.

Can I camp in Yalova City Forest?

The wider Erikli area is associated with camping and trekking, but overnight-use rules can change. Confirm the current permitted camping areas before setting up a tent.

Are the Dipsiz Lakes near the forest?

Yes. Official information places the larger Dipsiz Lake about 2.5 km from the city forest, with the smaller lake around 1.5 km farther away.

What is the best season to visit?

Spring through autumn generally offers the easiest combination of greenery, daylight and walking conditions, while winter can be quieter but requires more weather planning.

Is autumn a good time to visit?

Yes. The mixed broadleaf forest can produce excellent seasonal colour, making autumn especially attractive for photography.

How much time should I allow?

Allow around 2–3 hours for a fuller forest visit, or a half-day if you want to walk slowly, photograph the area and enjoy a picnic break.

What should I wear?

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are recommended because forest surfaces can be wet, muddy or uneven.

Is Yalova City Forest wheelchair accessible?

Some developed recreation areas may be easier to access, but natural trails can include slopes, roots and uneven surfaces. Confirm current step-free access if mobility requirements are essential.

Can I combine the forest with Sudüşen Waterfall?

Yes. A full-day Yalova nature route can combine the city forest with Sudüşen Waterfall.

Can I combine the forest with Yalova Termal?

Yes. A longer itinerary can combine woodland scenery with Yalova Termal Hot Springs.

Is Yalova City Forest worth visiting?

For travellers who enjoy woodland, waterfalls, photography and relaxed nature walking, Yalova City Forest offers one of the province’s most complete outdoor experiences.

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