Marmara Connection
What makes this route special?
The "Marmara Connection" is a multisport line connecting the four largest freshwater lakes of Northwest Turkey through pure human power. While the Marmara region is often synonymous with the dense urbanization of Istanbul, this route showcases the hidden, rugged soul of the region.
The trial begins at Lake Sapanca, followed by a bike transition to the historic Lake İznik. After completing a massive 95km loop around İznik on foot—crossing ancient olive groves and technical trails—the athlete cycles toward Lake Ulubat, a Ramsar-protected wetland. The journey continues with a run around Ulubat’s unique shoreline and a final bike segment to Lake Manyas (Bird Lake). The project concludes with a run around this ecological sanctuary, home to hundreds of migratory bird species.
This route is special because it bridges three major provinces (Sakarya, Bursa, and Balıkesir) and transforms a series of separate natural landmarks into one continuous, grueling, and aesthetically perfect endurance challenge. It is a true "shore-to-shore" odyssey through the hills, trails, and wetlands of the South Marmara corridor.
