At the gateway to Belgrad Forest, Bahçeköy is one of Istanbul's greenest settlements. At weekends the forest trails fill with walkers, runners, cyclists and picnickers. In this article we share ideas for a spa after walking in Bahçeköy and Belgrad Forest.
How Forest Trails Affect the Body
- Undulating trails: The calves, thighs and hips work hard.
- Uneven ground: The ankles and soles are constantly balancing.
- Long distances: Hours of walking or running leave fatigue in the lower back and back too.
Options for Recovery
- Sports Massage and Cold Plunge: A brisk leg-focused massage and a cold-water refresh after a long run or ride.
- Reflexology: For feet that carried the load on the trail for hours.
- Swedish Massage: Whole-body relaxation after a walk.
- Volcanic Hot Stone Massage: Softening with heat after a cool, damp day in the forest.
You'll find detailed tips for runners in Recovery After Running and for cyclists in Recovery for Cyclists.
Timing
A massage in the evening or the day after a long nature walk, rather than straight after, is usually more comfortable. For sauna and cold-water experiences, see our sauna guide and cold plunge guide.
From Nature to the City, From the City to the Spa
The road from Bahçeköy to Skyland Istanbul is a lovely way to carry the forest's quiet into the quiet of the spa. Fitting a nature walk and a spa ritual into the same day turns a weekend into a full day of renewal.
Caution
If you sprained an ankle, fell or felt sharp pain during your walk, see a doctor before having a massage.
Practical Information
- Address: Azerbaycan Cd., Skyflat Block A, 3rd Floor, Skyland, 34075 Sarıyer/Istanbul
- Hours: Every day 09:00–23:00
- Parking: Free indoor parking
