Experiences
Mount Ida
Mount Ida spreads over a wide geography between Çanakkale and Balıkesir. Its highest peak is on the Biga Peninsula. The mountain is the subject of many legends of Greek mythology. Its rich flora includes unique plant species, and its fauna features several endemic creatures such as the red-spotted trout.
Camping and discovering the local villages hidden away in lush nature are very popular on Mount Ida. There are twelve villages to explore and organic local products are available in local shops and stands. In Zeytinli, you can find high-quality olive oil.
The Legends and the Ancient Stories
You can feel the aesthetics of nature with mythological stories in Kaz Mountain National Park (Kaz Dağı Milli Parkı) with its magnificent views, relaxing forests and many hot springs.
In mythology, it is believed that the world's first beauty contest between Aphrodite, Hera and Athena was held in Kaz Mountains (Kaz Dağları).
According to the story, when the gods gathered for the wedding of Thetis and Peleus; Eris, who was not invited to the wedding, throws a golden apple where Athena, Hera and Aphrodite were "for the fairest" was written on the apple. The argument of "I am the most beautiful" begins between the three goddesses. Zeus orders Paris on Mount Ida (Kaz Dağları) to be assigned as the arbitrator in the selection of the fairest. Goddesses boast of their beauty in front of Paris and promise him gifts. Paris gives the golden apple to Aphrodite and the rest is the Trojan War.
Şahinderesi Canyon
Nestled in the greenery of the district of Altınoluk, a popular holiday destination on the skirts of the Ida Mountains, Şahinderesi Canyon is the reason this district is called an “oxygen paradise.” The canyon is located on Mount Ida that is known in Turkish as “Kaz Dağları”. The mountain separates the Aegean and Marmara regions of Türkiye, and in antiquity it was described as the "Mountain of the Goddess” and was considered sacred. Mount Ida is mentioned in Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid.
With all its greenery and astounding production of oxygen, Şahinderesi Canyon is a favored destination of nature lovers. The canyon is approximately 27 kilometers long with healing plants and herbs.
It reminds one of a paradise. Reaching the canyon is only possible with a four-wheel drive vehicle. If you would like to discover the area in more depth, joining a guided tour is highly recommended.
Ayazma Spring Nature Park
The history of Bayramiç district, which includes the Ayazma Spring Nature Park (Ayazma Pınarı Tabiat Parkı), dates back to the Kingdom of Troy. Although the settlements in and around Bayramiç date back to a very early period, there are very few ruins that have survived and can be seen.
Kazdağı-Ayazma forest recreation place is very important for recreational tourism with its historical background, unique flora and fauna, having the highest oxygen rate after the Alps in the world and cold waters.
