8 Days

7 Nights

4 Days Riding

Intermediate

Contact for price

HISTORIC ISTANBUL AND BELGRAD FOREST

Historic Istanbul, once the capital of three great empires (Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman) is one of the world’s most significant cultural heritage sites..
Belgrad Forest, located in the northern part of Istanbul, covers approximately 5,500 hectares.

Historic Istanbul, once the capital of three great empires (Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman) is one of the world’s most significant cultural heritage sites. Adorned with iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, this ancient city offers a unique mosaic where history and modern life intertwine. Spanning both sides of the Bosphorus, Istanbul invites visitors to experience a magnificent past alongside a rich and vibrant cultural journey.

Belgrad Forest, located in the northern part of Istanbul, covers approximately 5,500 hectares. This forest is not only an ecological haven but also a historical treasure with Ottoman-era dams, scenic walking trails, and rich biodiversity. As one of Istanbul’s most significant green spaces, it offers a unique blend of nature and history.

HISTORIC ISTANBUL AND BELGRAD FOREST

Historic Istanbul, once the capital of three great empires (Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman) is one of the world’s most significant cultural heritage sites. Adorned with iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, this ancient city offers a unique mosaic where history and modern life intertwine. Spanning both sides of the Bosphorus, Istanbul invites visitors to experience a magnificent past alongside a rich and vibrant cultural journey.

Belgrad Forest, located in the northern part of Istanbul, covers approximately 5,500 hectares. This forest is not only an ecological haven but also a historical treasure with Ottoman-era dams, scenic walking trails, and rich biodiversity. As one of Istanbul’s most significant green spaces, it offers a unique blend of nature and history.

QUICK FACTS

Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.

All meals listed in the itinerary are included.

One non-alcoholic drink is included per meal.

Tours are guided by professional local guides.

Features include trail rides through valleys and canter/gallop opportunities.

Horses are well-trained, energetic, and gentle.

Accommodation in boutique hotels.

Safe, modern riding equipment is used.

Riders are encouraged to bring their own gear (helmet, boots, etc.).

Helmets can be provided upon request.

Riders should be fit, able to trot and canter, and experienced in trail riding.

MAXIMUM WEIGHT LIMIT: 85 KG.
If you weigh more than 85 kg, participation is possible using two horses (additional cost
applies, please contact us).

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 50% deposit

This tour is exclusively designed for individuals and private groups.
Enjoy a personalized experience tailored to your preferences and schedule. To book your preferred dates, please contact us. Limited availability — early reservations are highly recommended!

ITINERARY

Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change due to weather and other influencing factors.

Day 1 – Welcome to Istanbul!

Upon your arrival at Istanbul Airport, you’ll be greeted by our private transfer and taken to Kilyos, a charming town on the Black Sea coast nestled in nature. As you leave behind the city’s hustle and bustle, the scenery transforms into green hills and refreshing sea breeze.

After a scenic 45-minute drive, you’ll check into your hotel. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at sunset, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow riders. Together, you’ll discuss the exciting week ahead; horses, trails, and the unforgettable experience of being immersed in nature on horseback. Your holiday has just begun, but you’ve already started
breathing in the rhythm of nature. (Dinner included)

25–30 KM | Approx. 4–5 hours on horseback

You start the day with freshly brewed tea and a rich breakfast. At 09:30, we depart from the hotel and head towards our farm, surrounded by lush forest paths. A warm smile and the inviting aroma of morning coffee welcome you at the farm. As you sip your coffee, saddles are tightened… and then it’s time to mount up.
Our route takes us on a historical journey that stretches back centuries. The first stop is the magnificent Sultan Mahmud II Dam, a historical water structure that still stands in all its glory and showcases the marvels of past engineering.

New Dam – Wikipedia

Right next to it, we are greeted by the elegant Valide Sultan Dam, built in 1796. Riding on horseback past these silent witnesses of history feels like traveling back in time.

Valide Dam – Wikipedia

After visiting the Valide Sultan Dam, we ride 3 km further to reach the Topuzlu Dam. Built in 1750, this is one of the oldest water structures from the Ottoman era. Hidden deep within the Belgrad Forest, the dam gets its name from the knob-shaped stone ornaments on it. It is one of the first reservoirs built to meet Istanbul’s water needs. With its stone-arched architecture and steadfast stance through time, Topuzlu Dam offers riders a chance to trace the footsteps of the
past. Here, we take a short break in its peaceful atmosphere, accompanied by birdsong and the coolness of the forest, refreshing both body and soul.

Near the Topuzlu Dam, we stop at a private picnic area set in the heart of the forest. A lunch made with local delicacies awaits you, accompanied by the sounds of nature. After lunch, we take a short rest in hammocks strung under the shady trees. As you close your eyes, all you hear is the sound of the wind and the dance of the leaves.

We then return to our horses for a pleasant two-hour ride back to the farm. At the end of the day, transportation is provided back to your hotel. After a day filled with a special bond with nature and new memories, you return to rest with a tired yet peaceful body. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

25–30 KM | Approx. 4–5 hours on horseback
After breakfast, we head back to the farm at 9:30 AM. Familiar faces, fresh coffee, and a calm morning set the tone. We saddle up and begin riding deep into the heart of the forest. Our first stop is Ayazma Square, a place steeped in legends and local myths. From there, narrow forest paths lead us to the ruins of St. George’s Anglican Church, where the traces of time still linger. As you explore the remains of this historic site, the silence of the past blends seamlessly with the living nature around you. Being on horseback at this moment adds a deeply spiritual dimension to the experience.

St. George Church

Our route then takes us to the Kömürcü Dam, located in the very heart of the Belgrad Forest. As we shake off the day’s ride, a delicious picnic awaits in a scenic spot: grilled butcher’s sausage over open fire served with mulled wine. The scent of nature mixes with the flavors of smoke and spice, turning lunch into a true feast.

Kömürcü Dam – Wikipedia

After a short rest, we saddle up again and enjoy a 2-hour serene ride through the shaded forest trails. With birdsong, rustling leaves, and the rhythmic sound of hooves, we make our way back to the farm. Today’s journey was not just a route, but a passage through the spirit of time. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included)

We start the day with a delightful breakfast as usual, but today, we’re not riding horses, we’re riding through history. In the morning, we head towards the Historic Peninsula with our vehicle.

Upon arrival, we’re greeted by our professional licensed tour guide, and an enchanting walking tour begins through Istanbul’s thousands of years of heritage.
Our first stop is the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, with its magnificent dome. Once a church, then a mosque, later a museum, and now a mosque again, every stone in this architectural masterpiece holds a story of civilization.

Hagia Sophia

Next, we visit the Blue Mosque, dazzling with its blue tiles. A pinnacle of Ottoman architecture, this mosque impresses visitors with both its spiritual ambiance and stunning details.

Blue Mosque

We then take a short break at the Spice Bazaar, where the air is filled with colorful aromas, Turkish delights, saffron, dried fruits, and an array of flavors… a feast for the senses!

Spice Bazaar

Our journey continues at the heart of Istanbul’s shopping scene, the Grand Bazaar. With its labyrinth-like alleys, artisan carpets, jewelry, and antique shops, it transports you centuries back in time.

Grand Bazaar

Below the city, a completely different world awaits: the Basilica Cistern. With lights reflecting off the water between ancient columns and the mysterious Medusa head, we discover Istanbul’s mystical side.

Basilica Cistern

We arrange our lunch break based on the group’s preference whether at a traditional Ottoman cuisine restaurant or exploring authentic street food along historic lanes. At the end of the tour, we provide a comfortable transfer back to your hotel. But the adventure doesn’t end there! For guests who wish to discover Istanbul’s vibrant nightlife, we offer an optional transfer to a central evening venue. Whether you prefer a classic tavern night or a cocktail by the Bosphorus, this city enchants you even after dark. (Breakfast, Dinner included)

After breakfast, we leave behind the hustle and bustle of Istanbul and head towards the peaceful embrace of the sea. In the early morning, we transfer to the ferry terminal and set sail toward the Princes’ Islands. This approximately 2-hour ferry journey offers a magical glimpse of Istanbul, accompanied by the dance of seagulls and the refreshing breeze of the Bosphorus.

As our ferry docks at Büyükada, we’re welcomed into a completely different world. This car-free island enchants visitors with its pine-scented streets, historic mansions, and serene silence, creating a truly captivating atmosphere.

More about Büyükada

After a short orientation walk on the island, free time begins. Guests may rent bicycles and explore the island at their own pace. Cycling along the coastline, through historical mansions and tree-lined paths with a gentle breeze, may be one of the most delightful moments of this tour. Following lunch, we begin our return journey, viewing the other islands from the ferry. The green hills of Heybeliada, the red soil of Kınalıada, and their peaceful shorelines add unforgettable
touches to our day, balancing nature and history beautifully.

More about Heybeliada

More about Kınalıada

As we return to the city, this island escape leaves a gentle fatigue on our faces and a deep sense of peace in our hearts. After the ferry ride, we transfer back to our hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner included)

25–30 KM Ride, Approx. 4–5 Hours

We start the day once again with the call of nature. After breakfast, we depart from the hotel at 09:30 and head to our ranch. Our horses are ready, and our energy is high. After a short preparation, we begin our peaceful ride through the tranquil trails of the Belgrad Forest, making our way toward the village of Çiftalan.

As we ride, we’re accompanied by the soothing sounds of birds, the earthy scent of the forest floor, and the whisper of the wind in the trees. Leaving the quiet village behind, we reach the Çiftalan lakes. The winding paths between the lakes feel like a dream for horseback riders. We take a short break by the water to let both our horses and ourselves rest.

Next, we head north to our final destination, Kısırkaya Beach on the Black Sea coast.

Kisirkaya – Wikipedia

After this inspiring journey, a delicious lunch awaits us at a local seaside restaurant, featuring rich flavors of Black Sea cuisine and fresh seafood. After lunch, we immerse ourselves in the refreshing waters of the Black Sea. Whether you choose to take a relaxing walk along the wide sandy beach, go for a swim, or simply unwind to the sound of the waves this is your time to connect deeply with the moment. For those looking to make the experience even more unforgettable, we offer a unique opportunity: riding into the sea with your horse. Gliding through the waves on horseback takes your bond with nature to a
whole new level. At the end of the day, we slowly ride back to the ranch, where a transfer will take us back to the hotel.

Today brought together forest, lake, village, and sea, blending into one rhythm, in the very heart of nature.
(Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)

25–30 KM | Approx. 4–5 hours on horseback

The Final Morning of the Tour…

After breakfast, we depart the hotel at 09:30 AM and follow our now-familiar route toward the ranch. There’s a gentle sense of sadness on everyone’s face, but also the deep peace that comes from days well spent. Today, we rode our horses for the final time. And while it may be the last ride, the route ahead is one to remember.

We begin by riding through Ayazma Square, heading once more into the heart of Belgrad Forest. As we pass under the lush canopy of trees, our first stop is Kömürcü Dam, familiar, yet beautiful in a new light each time. We then continue toward Kurtkemeri Cottage, a peaceful countryside retreat where we pause for a farewell lunch, surrounded by nature.

Under the shade of towering plane trees, our picnic table is set. Here, over warm food and heartfelt conversations, the weariness of the journey fades.After lunch, we mount our horses again and ride through the tranquil trails around Ayvat Dam. This final ride lasts more than two hours, with each step slowing, each breath deepening, as if nature itself is asking us to savor the moment. As we return to the farm, it’s not only our horses who’ve changed, we, too, have become a little
more ourselves. At the end of the day, we provide a transfer back to the hotel. The scent of pine, the forest paths, morning coffees, and the rhythmic sound of hooves now turn into cherished memories.

But this is not the end…

The time to reconnect with nature, bond with horses, and rediscover yourself can always come again.

(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

On our final morning, we gather over breakfast one last time to share memories and warm goodbyes. After breakfast, depending on your flight time, we provide your airport transfer.

As we leave the streets of Istanbul behind, the connection with nature and horses lingers, perhaps we’re a little tired, but we feel completely renewed. This is not goodbye… just “see you again”.
(Breakfast included)

NOTES

  • Travel insurance is mandatory for all riders.
  • Accommodation is provided at the designated hotel for the entire tour duration.
  • Daily routes may be modified based on weather or local conditions.
  • Meals are traditional with fixed menus. Additional food or drink requests are not included.
  • Lunches may be served picnic-style.
  • Guests deviating from the standard program (late arrival or early departure) will cover any extra costs.
  • Dinners may be served at the hotel or a local restaurant.
  • For late arrivals on the first day, a sandwich will be provided in the room.
  • Optional activities are not included in the package and are subject to extra charges.
  • Transfers for evening entertainment are not included.
  • Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, ferry rides, or bicycle rentals are not included. Please carry cash for these.
  • Airport transfers are available between 08:30 – 18:30. Outside these hours, private transfers can be arranged (additional charges apply).
  • Minimum age: 12 years. Children below this age may join only with parents and prior approval.