Taraklı Travel Guide, Sakarya – A Timeless Ottoman Gem in the Heart of Nature

Nestled in the gentle folds of the mountains of Sakarya Province, Taraklı is a living heritage town that feels untouched by time. With its cobblestone streets, traditional Ottoman houses, slow-paced lifestyle, and nature-kissed surroundings, Taraklı is the embodiment of the “Cittaslow” movement in Türkiye—an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility, authenticity, and cultural depth.

History & Cultural Heritage

Taraklı’s history stretches back to the Roman and Byzantine periods, known then as “Dablar.” However, it gained prominence during the early Ottoman Empire, serving as a significant caravanserai stop on the Istanbul–Ankara–Baghdad route. Its name is believed to come from local craftsmen who made wooden combs—“tarak” in Turkish.

The town preserves its Ottoman roots not just in spirit, but also in architecture. Taraklı’s 200+ year-old Ottoman mansions, such as Hıdırlık Mansion and Fenerli House, stand as enduring testaments to the craftsmanship and aesthetic of the past. Their wide eaves, wooden frames, and inner courtyards offer a captivating glimpse into 18th and 19th-century life in rural Anatolia.

A must-visit is the Yunus Paşa Mosque, built in 1517 by Ottoman Grand Vizier Yunus Paşa. With its elegant single dome and classical Ottoman architecture, the mosque continues to be the spiritual heart of the town.

Things to Do

Taraklı is not a place to rush through. It’s a town to be savored.

• Stroll the Old Bazaar (Arasta): Lined with artisans selling copperware, wooden crafts, and woven goods, this area is a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs.

• Explore Ottoman Mansions: Many are open to visitors or operate as boutique hotels and cafes.

• Hıdırlık Hill: Climb for panoramic views of the entire town with red-tiled roofs and minarets rising against forested hills.

• Thermal Springs in Göynükdere: Just outside Taraklı, this area is famed for natural hot springs said to have healing properties.

Taraklı also offers nature trails, especially around Karagöl Plateau and Acısu, perfect for light trekking and picnics under pine forests.

Culinary Delights

Taraklı’s food is as hearty and humble as the town itself. Be sure to try:

• Keşkek: A slow-cooked dish of meat and wheat, often served at weddings.

• Taraklı Baklavası: A local twist on the classic dessert, made with fewer layers but richer flavor.

• Pumpkin dessert (Kabak tatlısı): Especially delicious when made with local honey and tahini.

• Mıhlama (Kuymak): Cornmeal and cheese dish, borrowed from the Black Sea region but loved here too.

Many small family-run restaurants and village-style breakfast spots in Taraklı serve up local, organic meals with warm hospitality.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) are the ideal seasons. During these months, the weather is mild, and the natural beauty surrounding the town is at its most vibrant. Autumn paints the hills in gold, while spring brings a symphony of blossoms.

Winter, though cold, has its own charm—especially for those seeking a peaceful retreat, often under a dusting of snow.

How to Get There

Taraklı is located approximately:

• 60 km from Sakarya city center

• 65 km from Bolu

• 160 km from Istanbul

• 85 km from Ankara

By Car: The D650 highway from Sakarya or the E89 route from Ankara provide scenic drives through forests and hills.

By Bus: Regular minibuses run from nearby towns like Geyve, Akyazı, and Göynük. Intercity buses connect to Sakarya, from where you can transfer.

By Train: The nearest train station is in Arifiye (Sakarya), connected to Istanbul by high-speed train. From there, a taxi or minibus can take you to Taraklı.

Story in the Streets

Walking through Taraklı feels like slipping into a sepia-toned photo. The elderly sit by teahouses exchanging stories, cats nap on sunny windowsills, and time seems to slow down just enough for you to catch your breath. One traveler once called Taraklı “the place where your soul can hear itself think,” and that sentiment lingers in every breeze that passes through its narrow alleys.

The scent of wood smoke, the echo of the call to prayer, and the sight of a craftsman hammering copper over an open flame—all create a symphony of timeless rural life in Türkiye.