Turkiye, the destination known for its breathtaking beauty all year round; beckons travellers to discover unique adventures with the changing seasons. As winter blankets the landscape, Turkiye transforms into a winter sports paradise, with world-class ski resorts promising unique and unforgettable experiences. With its breathtaking mountain ranges, Turkiye has earned its place as one of the world’s premier destinations for winter sports.
Explore Turkiye’s top five winter destinations, each serving as a testament to the country’s vibrant winter sports culture and awe-inspiring natural landscapes.
Uludağ: Recognised as a symbol of winter enchantment, Uludağ, is one of Turkiye’s favourite and most beloved winter sports centers. As the highest mountain in Western Anatolia, Uludağ invites visitors to immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere of its snow-covered peaks. Easily accessible from major cities such as Istanbul and Bursa, Uludağ guarantees comfortable suites, shopping halls, restaurants, cafés and bars and vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable winter holiday experience.
Kartepe: Situated along the shores of Lake Sapanca, Kartepe stands out as Turkiye’s nearest ski resort to Istanbul. Kartepe is the winter wonderland you’ve always imagined, with its hillside fruit orchards, villages, and forests of hazelnut, oak, and chestnut trees. With its off-slopes that suit skiers of all levels and its proximity to renowned attractions like Maşukiye and Lake Sapanca, Kartepe offers the perfect combination of skiing excitement and serene lakeside tranquillity.
Kartalkaya: Nestled in the Köroğlu Mountains in Bolu, Kartalkaya is renowned as a favoured ski destination near major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Visitors can immerse themselves in alpine bliss, experiencing expert slopes catering to snowboarders and seamlessly integrating nature with winter sports.
Mount Erciyes: Situated in Central Anatolia, Erciyes Ski Center on Mount Erciyes (3,916 m), the highest summit of Anatolia, emerges as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. This extinct volcano, characterised by dramatic angles, offers excellent slopes and ideal conditions for skiers in search of delightful snowy experiences. While in Erciyes, you can also visit the fairy-tale winter destination of Cappadocia, stay in cave hotels and explore the region’s famous underground cities.
Palandöken: Embark on a journey to Palandöken Mountain in Erzurum, in Eastern Anatolia. As the most famous ski resort in the region and one of the country’s largest ski resorts, Palandöken Ski Center, stands out with its snow quality and long tracks. It is possible to experience an uninterrupted ski track of 14 kilometres at the facility. With its challenging steep slopes, expansive long trails, and the allure of light powder snow reaching heights of two or three meters, Palandöken Ski Centre is also attracting professional skiers.