It’s easy to assume Türkiye is a just summer destination, but the country is a winter wonderland too! The mountains and volcanic peaks home several excellent winter sports centres. If you fancy avoiding the mainstream ski-set and the crowds in the Alps or Aspen this ski season, give Türkiye a chance as you may be surprised. Here’s a look at a few of the best ski resorts in Türkiye.
THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN TURKEY
Uludag, Bursa
The slopes of Mount Uludag, 10 km south of Bursa, is widely considered Türkiye’s premier ski resort. Just 200km from Istanbul, it’s where many of the Turkish city hot-shots and celebrities head for their winter fun. This well-established resort boasts several high-end hotels, chalets and some fabulous restaurants and bars that often throw star-studded parties with performances by Türkiye’s leading names in music. With its 28 km of slopes and 24 lifts, Uludag is an excellent destination to indulge in a little Alpine skiing, snowboarding or snow biking. Come and discover Uludag’s delights for yourself – CONTACT US for more details.
Kartalkaya, Bolu
Another ski centre popular with the elite Instanbul and Ankara city folk is Kartalkaya, tucked into the pine forests 38 km from Bolu, the western Black Sea province. It’s a low-key resort yet still has plenty of charm and accommodation options. The ski centre is the main highlight, with 18 lifts and it offers snowboarding and skiing on more than 20 km of skiable terrain.
Kartepe, Kocaeli
Although Kartepe is one of Türkiye’s smallest ski centres, it offers some convenient winter fun for those visiting Istanbul and is located just 100km from the city. Kartepe is a relatively new resort and ideal for those with novice and intermediate skills, so it’s favoured by families and those wanting to learn the sport. The site offers a dozen runs and four ski lifts.
Erciyes, Kayseri
One ski resort in Türkiye gaining a lot of attention is Erciyes, in the central Anatolian province of Kayseri. It’s one of Türkiye’s oldest ski resorts built on the volcanic Mount Erciyes, and it offers over 102 km of alpine terrain and 34 runs suited to all levels. It’s a centre that often gets mentioned in the ski press as one of the best low-key skiing destinations. It is even set to be included in the European Commission’s Destinations of Excellence Network. The resort has gained so much popularity that the global hotel chain Radisson Blu opened its first luxury winter sports hotel in Türkiye in the area, offering guests direct access to the best slopes and ski lifts. The hotel also offers excellent restaurants and some beautiful high-end rooms and suites. CONTACT US for more details.
Palandoken, Erzurum
Situated in Türkiye’s eastern province of Erzurum is Palandoken, often referred to as “Türkiye’s winter wonderland”. Established in 2011, the ski centre usually kicks off the season early, in December, thanks to its artificial ski-making system. The natural snowfall then lasts through until late February or March, depending on conditions. Palandoken boasts the longest slopes in Türkiye, two that are suitable for slalom. It also has 55 runs suited to advanced skiers and those perfecting their skills. In addition, the centre has an ice wall, giant swing, zip line, gondola, and aerial and regular chair lifts spread over the site. Guests tend to stay either at the ski centre or at one of the many hotels in Erzurum, 7 km away.
Sarikamis, Kars
The skiing on offer in Sarikamis Ski Centre in Kars, has been likened to the Alps. This beautiful pine-clad resort is still off the radar for many, but it offers 5 runs over Mount Cibitepe, one that’s 12 km long. Accommodation is limited at the ski centre, so most stay at one of the hotels or chalets in Sarikamis town.
Davraz Ski Centre, Isparta
The premium resorts in Antalya are well known for their winter breaks, so if you are visiting the region and keen to hit the slopes, the Davraz Ski Centre offers an easy snowy getaway. Located in the beautiful western Mediterranean province of Isparta, famed for its lavender fields during the summer, it homes 19 km of skiable terrain and 12 runs. The views of Egirdir Lake and Mount Davraz are spectacular, and it has tracks suited to all skill levels.
SKIING IN TURKEY
Türkiye is far more than simply a summer destination. If you want to know more about winter sports and activities or fancy heading to one of the best ski resorts in Türkiye, please CONTACT 360 YACHTING.
