History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Alibey Dam Observation Hill and Nature Trail, rising on the slopes of Sultangazi City Forest overlooking the Alibeyköy Dam Lake, is a unique recreation route that brings together the dam lake mirror and the forest view in the heart of the city. This historical basin, where Mimar Sinan's Kırkçeşme water galleries used to supply water to Istanbul, is today the most popular escape point for nature lovers with its rich bird population, wooden viewing terraces hidden among pine trees and walking paths along the lake. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
It is located on the western ridge of the Alibeyköy Dam Lake, at an altitude of approximately 75 meters above sea level, on a slightly rugged pine forest land rising from the lake shore. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Entrance to the public viewing hill and nature hiking trails is completely free.•Visiting Hours and Days:Open 7 days a week during daylight hours.•Rules and Health/Safety Warnings:It is strictly forbidden to enter the reservoir or light uncontrolled fires near the water; Comfortable shoes should be preferred for hiking.•Facilities and Facilities:There are wooden observation towers, walking and jogging paths, picnic tables, fountains and parking. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:75. Yıl Mahallesi, Baraj Yolu Caddesi, Sultangazi / İstanbul.•Road Condition and Vehicle Suitability: It can be easily reached by passenger vehicle from the asphalt road from the entrance of Sultangazi City Forest.•Real Public Transportation Information: It is close to the T4 Topkapı - Mescid-i Selam Tram Line Sultangazi stop or the surrounding IETT bus stops.•Parking Availability:The large parking area at the entrance of the Urban Forest can be used. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photography Spots and Frames:The serene water mirror of Alibey Dam from the wooden viewing pier, water birds floating on the lake and green groves on the opposite shore provide wonderful photographs.•Light and Shooting Hours:Water mist in the early morning hours and reflections of the afternoon sun are the ideal light for photographers.•Time to Visit:Watching the awakening of nature around the lake in spring and the views of leaf fall in autumn are fascinating.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:You should enjoy Turkish tea brewed in a samovar and simit in the rural tea garden on Seyir Hill.