Located within the Kocaeli province and recognized as one of Europe's largest wildlife parks, Ormanya stands out for its sustainable ecotourism practices, nature education opportunities, and contributions to biodiversity. This project, which aims to blur the boundaries between urban life and the natural environment, is considered a holistic model of environmental awareness, biological conservation, and ecological living practices beyond simply being a recreational area. Ormanya serves as a pioneering example of environmental awareness for both local residents and national and international visitors.

^{Ormanköy Entrance Sign (Photo: Ahsen Güneş)}

Geographic Location and Site Characteristics

Ormanya, located within the Kartepe district of Kocaeli, encompasses a vast area of approximately 4,000 acres. This size places it among the largest wildlife parks not only in Türkiye but also in Europe. The diverse area, featuring woodlands, wetlands, hiking trails, and thematic habitats, is designed to appeal to a variety of age groups and interests.

Thematic Sections and Their Functions

Wildlife Area

The wildlife area, one of Ormanya's key components, is home to many endangered and protected animal species. Species such as deer, roe deer, gazelles, wild goats, and pygmy kangaroos are housed in conditions similar to their natural habitats, serving both conservation and educational purposes.

Zoo

The zoo area, a popular destination for children and families, is designed to promote animal biodiversity and foster respect for the natural world. Educational panels, interactive narrative techniques, and habitats designed with animal welfare in mind promote ethical animal keeping practices.

^{Zoo (Photo: Ahsen Güneş)}

Nature School

Ormanya Nature School functions as a center for institutionalizing environmental education. It offers educational programs on ecology, forest science, sustainability, recycling, and climate change for a variety of age groups, from preschool to university level. This strengthens the bond between nature and individuals, fostering environmental awareness at an early age.

^{A Reading Area Intertwined with Nature (Photo: Ahsen Güneş)}

Caravan and Camping Areas

Ormanya also stands out with its camping and caravan sites designed in accordance with sustainable tourism principles. Visitors can enjoy a stay surrounded by nature with a low carbon footprint. Environmentally friendly infrastructure systems (grey water management, solar-powered lighting, etc.) are used throughout the areas to minimize environmental impact.

Hobbit Houses and Fairytale Village

These thematic areas, designed specifically for children, strengthen the connection between nature and play, offering learning environments with aesthetic designs that encourage imagination. Hobbit Houses are among the fun and striking examples of sustainable architecture.

^{Hobbit Houses (Photo: Ahsen Güneş)}

Botanical Gardens and Hiking Trails

The botanical gardens located within Ormanya's landscape bring together many plant species representative of Türkiye's flora. Hiking trails and bicycle paths offer visitors low-impact sports opportunities and create recreational areas that support physical and mental health.

Biodiversity and Nature Conservation

Ormanya, thanks to its forest texture and diverse species, functions as a regional biodiversity conservation area. It makes significant contributions to Türkiye's nature conservation strategies through the propagation of native species, the protection of rare species, and population monitoring efforts. It also aims to increase carbon sinks and enhance environmental resilience as part of the fight against climate change.

^{Insect Hotel (Photo: Ahsen Güneş)}

Ecotourism and Sustainability

Ormanya is a leading example of the widespread adoption of ecotourism in Türkiye. Unlike mass tourism, the resort operates with practices that minimize environmental impacts and support local development. It is planned and managed in line with sustainable tourism principles. Furthermore, sales outlets dedicated to local producers support the regional economy and enable consumers to access natural products.

Social Participation and Access

Ormanya offers an open, accessible, and participatory living space for people of all ages. Specialized paths for individuals with disabilities, information boards, and guidance services are structural improvements that support inclusivity. Additionally, environmental volunteering, nature conservation efforts, and public awareness activities are carried out in collaboration with various civil society organizations.

Ormanya stands out as one of the rare places in Türkiye where natural habitats integrate with modern life. Located in Kocaeli province, this nature park combines environmental education, biodiversity conservation, ecotourism, community participation, and sustainability principles under one roof. Ormanya is not only a physical recreation area; it is also a dynamic environmental learning platform that serves to convey life practices in harmony with nature to the public.