Inciraltı Urban Forest is a large green area located within the borders of Bahçelerarası Mahallesi in the Balçova district of Izmir. It offers an important area to breathe for those who want to meet nature in the middle of city life. The forest is located to the east of Çakalburnu Lagoon and is used as a recreation area intertwined with natural life.
İnciraltı Urban Forest was known as Yenikale Burnu until 1999 and was an area covered in rubble for years. However, with the afforestation works that started in 2004, ecological richness was provided and the region was restored to nature with the project completed in 2006. This transformation has been an environmentally friendly and sustainable move for Izmir.
Inciraltı City Forest covers a total area of 622,000 square meters and is covered with 20,659 trees. Many different species such as acacia, pine, plane tree, redbud, and linden live here. In addition, Çakalburnu Lagoon, located to the left of the forest, is an attractive place for bird watchers. This region is among the most important natural habitats of Izmir.
Nature view from Inciraltı Urban Forest
Inciraltı Urban Forest offers many different activity areas for nature lovers. There are walking trails, bicycle paths and large recreation areas in the forest. In addition, open areas suitable for picnics and shady trees create a pleasant environment for families. Thanks to its walking and cycling tracks, it is a perfect option for those who want to adopt a healthy lifestyle intertwined with nature.
There are also facilities such as parking, district terminal and caravan park in the surrounding area. In this respect, a suitable nature area has been created for both individual and collective activities.
Hiking and cycling paths in the forest
Inciraltı Urban Forest is not only a nature area but also makes a name for itself with itssocial activities and cultural activities. Since 2017, it has hosted the İzmir Youth Festival every year during the week of May 19. Young people come together here for cultural and artistic activities. In addition, nature walks and environmental awareness-themed organizations organized on weekends contribute to society.
'Inciraltı Urban Forest is a living space that reminds us of nature in cities that are becoming more and more concrete.'
This forest, which everyone who wants to meet nature in İzmir should definitely visit, is not only a green area but also a place to escape from the stress of urban life.