Turkey’s Top 10 Ski Resorts

Discover the best ski resorts in Turkey, a country renowned for its unique combination of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and excellent skiing facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Turkey’s ski resorts offer something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the top 10 ski resorts in Turkey, each offering a unique experience for winter sports enthusiasts.

1. Uludağ Ski Resort

Description: Uludağ Ski Resort is the oldest and most popular alpine village in Turkey, situated just 36 km from Bursa. The ski area lies between 1800-2500 meters, with the best season for skiing from December to April. Uludağ boasts a total ski track length of about 20 km, with the longest track being around 2 km. The resort is known for its vibrant après-ski scene and numerous facilities, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Palandöken Ski Resort

Description: Located in Erzurum, Palandöken Ski Resort is one of Turkey’s largest and most prestigious ski areas. The resort sits at an altitude of 3185 meters and is covered with snow for 4-5 months during winter. Known for its excellent hotels, facilities, and Colorado-type powder snow, Palandöken offers an outstanding skiing experience. The resort also hosted the 2011 Winter Universiade, adding to its international acclaim.

3. Kartalkaya Ski Resort

Description: Kartalkaya Ski Resort is situated 40 km from Bolu in the Black Sea Region. The ski area is located at an altitude of 1850-2200 meters, with the best season for skiing from late December to late March. Kartalkaya is renowned for its family-friendly environment and well-maintained slopes, catering to both beginner and intermediate skiers.

4. Erciyes Ski Resort

Description: Erciyes Ski Resort is one of Turkey’s oldest ski resorts, located on Mount Erciyes, which stands at approximately 3915 meters, the highest summit of Anatolia. The resort is 25 km from Kayseri and offers a variety of slopes suitable for all levels of skiers. The resort’s high altitude ensures a long ski season, from December to April, with excellent snow conditions.

5. Sarıkamış Ski Resort

Description: Sarıkamış Ski Resort is 50 km from Kars and is known for its pristine powder snow and serene environment. The best season for skiing is from December to April. The resort features a track length of 1200 meters and an altitude of 2100 meters. While the hotels are few and fairly basic, the resort’s natural beauty and excellent snow conditions make it a must-visit for skiing enthusiasts.

6. Ilgaz Ski Resort

Description: Ilgaz Ski Resort lies 40 km from Kastamonu and offers an altitude of 2850 meters. The skiing season runs between December and April, with ski runs located between 1800-2000 meters altitude. The resort is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more relaxed skiing experience amidst beautiful alpine scenery.

7. Saklıkent Ski Resort

Description: Saklıkent Ski Resort is located 50 km west of Antalya in the Beydağ mountain range. The resort has an altitude of 2550 meters, with skiing areas between 2000-2400 meters. The snow depth averages 1 meter, and the season is relatively short. Despite this, Saklıkent’s proximity to the Mediterranean coast allows for a unique experience where you can ski in the morning and swim in the sea in the afternoon.

8. Elmadağ Ski Resort

Description: Elmadağ Ski Resort is a few kilometers southeast of Ankara, situated on the northern slopes of Elmadağ between altitudes of 1500-1850 meters. The area is treeless and covered with alpine meadows, providing a unique skiing environment. The season runs from January to March, making it a convenient option for those based in the capital.

9. Kartepe Ski Resort

Description: Kartepe Ski Resort in Kocaeli is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate skiers. The resort features three chair lifts and a summit at 1700 meters. Kartepe is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained slopes, making it a popular destination for day trips from Istanbul.

10. Bozdağ Ski Resort

Description: Bozdağ Ski Resort is located 110 km southeast of Izmir. The skiing season runs from December to March, with ski areas situated at altitudes between 1700-2157 meters. The northern slopes are particularly suitable for alpine skiing. Bozdağ offers a peaceful and scenic environment, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.