In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ski resorts in Türkiye, where captivating mountains and sparkling snow await you.

Erciyes

Located on the highest mountain in Anatolia, Erciyes is the best ski resort in Türkiye for the average skier.

With 41 ski slopes stretching across 112 kilometers (69.59 miles) and 19 mechanical lifts, Erciyes is among Türkiye’s most significant ski centers, attracting both domestic and international tourists,

The station is open from the beginning of December to the end of April. It is located at an altitude of 3000m. The ski resort is located just a 30-minute drive from Kayseri airport and a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

You can find out more about Erciyes Ski Resort here

Palandöken – Ejder 3200 World Ski Centre

Located only a few kilometres from Erzurum, over 40 kilometres of slopes await you at Palandöken (Ejder 3200 World Ski Center), with its renovated slopes and luxury facilities. This ski resort is popular with beginners and professional skiers as well as snowboarders. 

The resort is open to skiers and snowboarders from mid-December to mid-April. If there is not enough snow, over 200 snow cannons make for ideal conditions on the slopes. Palandöken features one of the longest ski runs in Türkiye – as well as a terrain park.

You can find out more about Palandöken Ski Resort here

Sarıkamış

With 20 km of slopes, this ski area located at an altitude slightly above 2000 metres, is one of the best ski resorts in Türkiye.

Sarıkamış is a ski resort suitable for skiers of all levels, from beginner to professional. It is a good choice for those travelling in groups or with families who have different individual levels.

For skiing and snowboarding, there are 21.3 km of slopes and 1.1 km of ski routes available

The resort is located 45 minutes from Kars airport.

You can find out more about Sarıkamış Ski Resort here

Sources: European Best Destinations/Skiresort.info

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Located in the southwestern part of Türkiye, winter in Fethiye is not as harsh as it is in other places. With its steep cliffs that stand as high as 350 meters, the region is not only an attraction centre for those who are looking for sunny beaches but also for adventure seekers who want to climb high and follow the trails of ancient civilizations. So it is not surprising that despite the cold season, Fethiye, located in the foothills of Babadağ (ancient Mount Cragus) is one of the more popular places for adventure-loving tourists.

Ölüdeniz in winter transforms into a turquoise paradise, often framed by dark, looming skies or illuminated by a breathtaking array of colours as the sunset paints the horizon.

Be sure to add a visit to your Türkiye bucket list!

Photos by Hamdi Yaman and Şefik Akkurt

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You can discover Istanbul’s iconic minarets, the Roman ruins of Antalya, or the cultural treasures of Ankara and Cappadocia, all set against stunning winter landscapes.

Why you should consider a Winter getaway to Türkiye

Escape the Crowds:

Winter in Türkiye means fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the country’s famous sites. While Istanbul remains lively year-round, other parts of Türkiye offer a peaceful, crowd-free experience during this season.

Budget-Friendly Adventure:

Winter months bring lower prices for flights, accommodations, and attractions, making it an affordable time to visit Türkiye. You can enjoy the same stunning scenery and cultural richness for a fraction of the summer cost.

Authentic Cultural Experience:

Winter provides a more traditional Turkish experience, with a local feel that summer’s tourist-heavy season often overshadows. You can immerse yourself in the local way of life and enjoy Türkiye’s rich culture without the international buzz of peak season.

Mild and Dry Weather:

While some regions experience colder temperatures, Türkiye generally enjoys a milder and drier winter than much of Europe. The country’s diverse geography ensures comfortable weather, particularly along the southern coast.

• Eastern Türkiye: Coldest, with places like Erzurum seeing snow and freezing temperatures.

• Ankara: The capital gets chilly, with occasional snowfall.

• Istanbul: Mixed weather, from sunny days to rain and occasional snow.

• South Coast: Areas like Fethiye, Bodrum, Izmir, and Antalya remain mild, with temperatures in the 20s°C by late winter.

Winter weather varies by region, so packing for all possibilities is essential.

Highlights of Things to See and Do

Cappadocia’s Winter Wonderland:

Cappadocia is enchanting year-round, but in winter, its fairy-tale landscapes blanketed in snow are truly magical. Don’t miss the iconic hot air balloon rides and stay in a cozy cave hotel for an unforgettable experience.

Fethiye’s Tranquil Winter Charm:

While a summer hotspot, Fethiye offers a peaceful retreat in winter, showcasing its authentic Mediterranean charm. For thrill-seekers, paragliding in nearby Ölüdeniz remains a top adventure.

Bursa’s Cultural and Thermal Baths:

Bursa is rich in history and renowned for its thermal baths. Despite chilly temperatures, the city’s landmarks, such as the Grand Mosque, and its delicious cuisine, particularly kebabs, offer a fulfilling winter experience.

Skiing in Uludağ:

Near Bursa, Uludağ is a winter sports haven, with ski resorts offering various activities from December to March. Whether skiing or simply enjoying the snowy landscapes, Uludağ is a lively yet spacious retreat.

Ancient Wonders of Çanakkale and Troy:

Close to Istanbul, Çanakkale is a charming seaside town and gateway to the ancient city of Troy. Winter is the perfect time to explore its historic ruins without the summer heat and crowds.

Pamukkale’s Winter Sunsets:

Pamukkale’s famous thermal springs are especially inviting in winter. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy peaceful strolls around the Greek ruins of Hierapolis and catch breathtaking sunsets.

Exploring Ephesus in Winter:

Visiting Ephesus during winter means fewer crowds and a more comfortable climate for exploring its ancient ruins. The off-season allows for more personal, tranquil experiences.

Ankara’s Snowy Wonderland:

Türkiye’s capital, Ankara, turns into a picturesque winter city. Its historic sites, like Ankara Castle, and Ottoman architecture, offer a perfect backdrop for a snowy city break.

Winter Beach Retreats in Antalya:

Antalya offers warm winter weather and luxurious beach resorts. Its spa offerings, along with stunning views of landmarks like Alanya’s Castle and Kızıl Kule, make it an ideal spot for a relaxing winter getaway.

Nature Escape at Yedigöller National Park:

Situated between Ankara and Istanbul, Yedigöller National Park is a serene winter retreat known for its seven lakes, formed by an ancient landslide. The park’s winter beauty, fragrant woodlands, and abundant wildlife make it a nature lover’s paradise.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Izmir

Skip Istanbul’s overwhelming New Year’s Eve crowds and head to Izmir, a vibrant city on the Aegean coast. With stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich history, it’s a perfect winter destination.

Mesmerizing Whirl of the Dervishes:

A winter visit to Türkiye isn’t complete without witnessing a Whirling Dervish performance. Held indoors in historic venues, these traditional dances are a spiritual and mesmerizing spectacle.

Türkiye’s winter season is full of diverse attractions, offering everything from snowy mountain adventures to peaceful beach retreats, making it a year-round destination worth exploring.

Source: Turkey evisa

You may also enjoy this article written by Ayla Jean Yackley for Matador Network:

9 Compelling Reasons to Visit Turkey in Winter

The post Exploring the magic of Türkiye in Winter appeared first on Fethiye Times.

1959 meters above sea level, it is the second-largest lake in the Eastern Anatolia Region after Lake Van, and the tenth-largest in Türkiye, with an area of 123 km².

The nature and beauty surrounding Lake Çıldır draw tourists from far and wide all year round.

The lake attracts thousands of visitors during each season, but it is especially enchanting in winter.

An icy wonderland

Lake Çıldır is almost totally covered by ice in the winter months. It usually starts to freeze at the beginning of winter as the temperature drops to minus 10 degrees during the night. The lake can stay frozen for up to eight months.

One of the things that makes Lake Çıldır unique is that the livelihood of local fishermen and many tourism activities don’t start until the lake is frozen.

Lake Çıldır is famous for several different fish species which can be tried at the local fish restaurant, Gunayin Yeri.

The troika experience

Once the ice sheet above the lake thickens to over 25 centimetres, Lake Çıldır becomes a stage for sleigh rides, providing tourists with an unforgettable experience.

A unique way to enjoy the lake is to take a tour on a troika, a traditional Russian sleigh pulled by horses.

Cycling on ice

When the ice is not thick enough for the sleighs, visitors can rent bicycles and enjoy the natural wonder as they cycle on the lake.

Getting there

Türkiye’s” Doğu Ekspresi” (Eastern Express), takes travellers on a magical journey from Ankara to Kars.  The route is one of the world’s most amazing scenic train journeys.

The journey takes 26 hours and the popularity of the express is incredible given that it was about to close a few years back.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Lake Çıldır is very limited however you can stay at the Lake Çıldır Lodge or stay in Kars and visit Lake Çıldır on a day trip. 

Sources: Anadolu Agency, Turkey From the Inside, Go Turkey Tourism, Always on the Way

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