Edirne Söğütlük National Garden: The City's New Green Oasis

Edirne Söğütlük National Garden: The City's New Green Oasis

Nestled along the banks of the Meriç (Maritza) River in Edirne's historic Karaağaç district, Söğütlük National Garden opened its doors to the public on June 2, 2025, becoming the city's largest green space. This magnificent 515-acre (51.5-hectare) park transforms a centuries-old recreation area into a modern urban garden.

History: Söğütlük's Century-Old Legacy

Söğütlük takes its name from the willow trees (söğüt) that grow naturally along the Meriç riverbank. Since Ottoman times, this area has been Edirne's beloved picnic and leisure spot — a cherished part of the city's collective memory.

The area encompasses three state forests: Asker Söğütlüğü, Pazarkule, and Karaağaç Söğütlüğü. In 1995, İzzet Arseven, the provincial chairman who fought against the commercialization of this public space, lost his life in the struggle. The forest park was renamed in his honor.

Designated a Natural Protected Area in 2019, Söğütlük was transformed into a modern national garden by TOKİ (Turkey's Housing Development Administration).

Park Features and Facilities

Walking and Cycling

• 10 km natural walking trails winding through the forest
• 5 km cycling paths — 3 km through woodland, 2 km along the river
• Dedicated bicycle lane entrance at the main gate

Sports and Recreation

• Football and basketball courts
• Children's playgrounds
• Picnic areas with seating
• Terraced riverside viewing platforms

Water Sports

• 2 km rowing course on the Meriç River
• Canoe and kayak docks
• Water sports center on the opposite bank (in development)

Social Spaces

• Library
• Countryside cafes
• Local produce markets
• 100-acre concert and event area near Mehmet Müzezzinoğlu Bridge
• 64 drinking fountains throughout the grounds

Events and Festivals

Söğütlük National Garden has become Edirne's premier large-scale event venue:

• Edirne Living Heritage Festival (September) — Traditional crafts workshops, calligraphy, and concerts
• Edirne Gastronomy Festival (September) — Chef workshops, cooking competitions, local food markets
• Regular rowing competitions and water sports events
• Open-air concerts for thousands of attendees

How to Get There

Söğütlük National Garden is just 2 km from Edirne city center:

• Bus: ETÜS line 3/C (Karaağaç-Bus Station) — "Söğütlük" stop
• Taxi: Approximately 5 minutes from the center
• By car: Straight road via Karaağaç Yolu (Lozan Caddesi)
• On foot: About 25-30 minutes from the center
• From The Plaza Hotel Edirne: Approximately 10 minutes by car

Visitor Information

• Admission: Free
• Parking: 100 TL per vehicle
• 24/7 security with 200 cameras and ~50 staff

Why Visit?

Söğütlük National Garden perfectly captures Edirne's spirit of living in harmony with nature. With 2,336 newly planted trees, white willows, plane trees, elms, and maples, this space offers the perfect escape from the bustle of city life.

Whether you want to cycle along the Meriç River, hike through forest trails, enjoy tea at a countryside cafe, or have a riverside picnic — Söğütlük has something for everyone.

Stay at The Plaza Hotel Edirne and reach Söğütlük National Garden in just 10 minutes. After exploring Edirne's historic treasures, unwind in this tranquil green paradise.

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