There are three main reasons to visit Boyali village:
- To enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside
- For trekking and bird watching in a rich natural habitat
- To observe authentic village life away from tourist routes
Tucked at the foot of a large hill, Boyali is visible from a distance but reached best by knowing the local back roads. The village population is roughly 55 people and it sits within the Beypazari region. The valley around Boyali is an important area for birdlife, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.
Boyali has no school building; children take a bus to the nearby town for classes. A mobile market visits occasionally, allowing residents to buy items they can’t produce themselves, like salt and sugar. Daily life in the village is simple and self-reliant.
On arrival, our car drew the attention of locals working in their gardens. Visitors are rare, so any stranger arriving naturally attracts curiosity. We followed a muddy path and met an elderly sheep farmer who also served as the village muhtar. With too few residents to warrant a full-time mayor, the muhtar handles administrative tasks and paperwork for the community.
At first I was uneasy about the spiked collar on the farmer’s sheepdog, but learned it protects the animal from wild predators rather than being a sign of aggression. The dog was clearly a loyal family companion; the collar is practical livestock protection. It was a reminder not to jump to conclusions about unfamiliar customs.
We passed a young man loading firewood onto his tractor while his small son—about eight years old—helped eagerly. The man’s wife came out of the house carrying a block of white cheese she had made herself. Many villagers still produce their own bread, cheese and other staples, reflecting a tradition of self-sufficiency.
The spontaneous hospitality of locals stood out. Coming from a Western background where strangers are often treated with caution, I remain struck by the generous, open-handed way people in rural Turkey welcome visitors. Small acts of sharing—an offer of homemade cheese, a cup of tea—are common and sincere.
After about an hour we left Boyali, and I haven’t returned. Village life appeals to those who value quiet and simplicity, but I prefer access to more amenities and the constant connectivity of town life. The thought of giving up reliable internet and learning to bake and make cheese full-time is not for me. Still, a short visit to Boyali offers a memorable glimpse of traditional rural living and beautiful natural surroundings.
