Kıyıköy: camping by the streams and in deserted coves

Kıyıköy, in the Vize district of Kırklareli, is a small seaside town where two streams flow into the sea. The town itself is quiet. For anyone who wants somewhere a bit more remote, the coves around it are unspoilt in a way you rarely find this close to Istanbul anymore.

Where is it?

On the Black Sea coast in Vize, Kırklareli. About 160 km from Istanbul, roughly 2.5 hours by car.

How to get there

By car via Saray or Vize. By public transport, take a bus from Esenler Otogarı to Saray or Vize, then a local minibus to the centre of Kıyıköy.

Where to camp

• The banks of Pabuçdere and Kazandere. There are flat areas suitable for pitching a tent along the streams on either side of the town. Since they're close to the town, you can get to the centre quickly if you need anything.
• Around the Aya Nikola Monastery. The wooded area around this Byzantine monastery carved into the rock is also popular for camping.
• Selvez and Poliçe coves. These are the truly remote ones. There are no facilities, toilets or electricity at all. Only for people who can be completely self-sufficient.

There are also paid campsites in the town with toilets and showers.

When to go

June to September for the sea. Morning mist and birdsong by the streams make camping lovely in spring and autumn too.

Good to know

Do all your shopping in town before heading to the free spots. When camping by a stream, remember the water can rise in rainy weather. In the summer months, check the bans on lighting fires.

Sources

• Kıyıköy Kamp Alanları: Çadır Kamp İçin En İyi 4 Yer (Rota Senin)
• Kıyıköy kamp ve gezi rehberi (Arpaboyu Yol)
• Kıyıköy Nerede, Nasıl Gidilir (Yolcu360)