Best Ski Resorts in Turkey
As the chill of winter settles across Turkey (Türkiye), the country transforms into a patchwork of snow-laden peaks, unspoiled landscapes, and winter sports culture. The renowned slopes of Uludağ and Kartalkaya and the quiet charm of Sarıkamış transcend just ski runs, delivering a unique Turkish experience. If one is drawn to the warmth, Turkey has a majestic secret: here, winter isn't only about snow. Sun-kissed coastal retreats such as Antalya, Marmaris, Alanya, and Pamukkale still shimmer with eternal sunshine.
In Turkey, you'll discover the best of both worlds: powdered mountains where winter sports reign supreme and the Mediterranean havens where you can bask in rare seasonal warmth. Skiing in Erciyes one day and diving into Antalya’s pristine waters, or celebrating local festivals while sampling the craft of Turkey’s artisans, is what Turkey delivers in winter.
Best Ski Resorts in Turkey
In wintertime, the green Bursa wraps itself in a radiant cloak of purest white. The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia are transformed into a mesmerising sight; the stunning peaks of Palandöken, the snow-laden woods of Uludağ, the thrilling descents of Sarıkamış, and the picturesque escapes of Kartalkaya, with its gentle slopes and the enchanting Bolu region along the Black Sea, shine brightly, ready to bring you unforgettable winter adventures.
Uludağ Ski Resort and the Nine Glacial Lakes
Uludağ, meaning "Big Mountain" in Turkish, stands at the peak of the country's winter resorts—literally and figuratively. This snowy getaway is settled on the two hills named Fatintepe and Kuşaklıkaya, just half an hour from Bursa and on a scenic drive away from Istanbul, and has risen 2,543 metres high in Uludağ National Park. Here, the trails are for every level of adventurer, with their specific colours assigned to particular levels.
For beginners, there are 10 green trails winding through the lower slopes. Those seeking more spirited descents will find eight blue and six red runs, while Uludağ’s singular and high-profile black trail awaits the most daring skiers.
Reaching Uludağ is almost as effortless as gliding down its slopes. You can arrive at Bursa’s Yenişehir Airport (YEI), and get on a bus to the snowy sanctuary. Additionally, the longest cable car ride in Turkey, Bursa Teleferik, or, in other words, Bursa Uludağ Gondola, will get you to the resort along the breathtaking picturesque landscapes such as snow-powdered forests, rugged mountain terrain, quaint villages with charming chalets, and sometimes even glimpsing the Sea of Marmara depending on the weather.
Uludağ ski resort (Uludağ kayak merkezi)-Bursa remains a must-see and an essential stop on any Turkey winter holiday. Whether you’re here for the thrill of the trails, the serenity of the views, or a combination of both, "Big Mountain" won’t disappoint you.
Best season: From mid-December to late March.
Davraz Ski Resort on the Heights of the Taurus Mountains
Davraz Ski Resort (Davraz kayak merkezi)-Isparta, with a highland wonderland reaching 2,635 metres, near Isparta in Turkey's Lakes Region, combines scenic landscapes and slopes for all skill levels, from gentle green to challenging black ski tracks. Rising between 1,500 and 2,500 metres, the resort includes pine, juniper, and cedar forests and breathtaking views of Eğirdir and Kovada Lakes.
With its snowy season stretching from December to May, Davraz enjoys mild winter temperatures, rarely dipping below -5 °C, and reliable snow cover from 60 to 80 centimetres. Only two hours from Antalya, Davraz provides convenience and quality at the same time, featuring ski schools, equipment rentals, and diverse options for Nordic and alpine skiing and ski touring, making it an ideal Turkey ski holiday spot.
Best season: From the end of December to the beginning of May.
Sarıkamış Ski Resort close to the Ancient Silk Road
Sarıkamış (Sarıkamış kayak merkezi), often called the "Innsbruck of Turkey," is distinguished by its powder crystal snow, a rare phenomenon found only in the Alps and in Sarıkamış, making it uniquely suited for skiing. This exceptional snow, coupled with the region's natural beauty, sets Sarıkamış apart from other ski resorts.
Sarıkamış sits 53 kilometres from Kars, with breathtaking alpine charm and trails reminiscent of Austria. With 9 main slopes spanning 25 kilometres and one of the longest ski slopes in the world—ranging from gentle blues for beginners to challenging blacks for advanced skiers—the resort has something for everyone. Snowboarders can enjoy a renowned snow park, and cross-country routes beckon Nordic skiing fans. Chairlifts ascend to heights of 2,300 metres, while lower trails cater to novices. Beyond skiing, Sarıkamış shines as a family-friendly destination, with kids’ programs, ski schools, and excursions to the ancient Ani ruins on the Silk Road, the 12th-century Seljuk fortress, and Armenian palaces, making it a top winter holiday choice in Turkey.
Best season: From December to March.
Palandöken Ski Resort, the Ultramodern on the Silk Road
Mount Palandöken (Palandöken kayak merkezi) or Ejder 3200 is a standout destination on the ancient Silk Road, nestled in Erzurum. Towering at 3,185 metres, it boasts Turkey's longest 12-kilometre trail, the third-longest ski track globally, and 30 kilometres of pristine slopes that cater to all skill levels. The resort’s iconic Ejder (Dragon) Trail and Olympic-standard tracks make it a hub for athletes and winter enthusiasts alike.
As the first Sustainable Tourism Certified Destination in Turkey, with GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) approval, Palandöken demonstrates its commitment to sustainability by reducing environmental impacts and preserving natural resources. Adventurers can indulge in unique activities such as paragliding, the giant swing, zipline, human slingshot, and ice wall climbing, complementing the resort’s premier skiing experience.
Just minutes from Erzurum Airport (ERZ), Palandöken combines elite alpine adventures with heated sky lounges at 2,700 metres, luxurious hotels, and après-ski elegance.
Best season: From early December to mid-April.
Kartalkaya Ski Resort, Alpine Skiing in the Köroğlu Mountains
Tucked into the Koroglu Mountains near Bolu (Bolu-Köroğlu Dağı), Kartalkaya (Kartalkaya kayak merkezi)-Bolu brings a fusion of thrill and tranquillity to winter sports. This ski enclave sits amidst prodigious forests between 1,850 and 2,200 metres and satisfies all needs, from entry-levellers to slalom enthusiasts and snowboarders. The resort splits into two main skiing areas, one of which is Kartal, with two hotels and smooth tracks, and Doruk (Dorukkaya), providing an Austrian-designed snow park and winding trails, the largest snowparks of European standards in Turkey, with total length kilometres of tracks. Nearby, you'll find Seven Lakes National Park (Yedigöller Millî Parkı), DJ performances, and mulled wine around every corner.
Best season: From late December to late March.
Ericyes Ski Resort sitting on a Dormant Volcano
At the foot of Anatolia's soaring peak, Erciyes Ski Resort (Erciyes Kayak Merkezi)-Kayseri thrives on volcanic terrain. This alpine outpost near Kayseri extends across the Tekir plateau, with snow depths of up to two metres from November to May. Higher spots of the mountain are covered by snow year-round, as it is the highest point in Central Anatolia (3,916 metres), while there's a glacier on its north side. A network of high-speed lifts, whisking 26,750 people hourly, guides skiers and snowboarders across 34 tracks, covering 102 kilometres in total, while beginners ease into the rhythm on conveyor lifts. Après-ski brings Turkish tastes — succulent pastırma, gilaburu suyu (juice) — served at mountainside eateries.
Best Season: From early December to late April.
Saklıkent Ski Resort, Skiing Near Antalya
Saklıkent Ski Resort is the place where the Mediterranean sun meets alpine heights. Perched on the northern slopes of Bakırlıdağ within the Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları), in Saklıkent Ski Resort you can enjoy a unique winter near Antalya. Accessible by car or cable car, this Turkish ski destination boasts stunning views of the Antalya Bay (Antalya Körfezi) and the majestic Taurus peaks.
As the closest ski resort to the Mediterranean and equator, Saklıkent’s daytime temperatures rarely dip below -5 °C. The resort enjoys 70-80 sunny days per season, and its snow depth averages 100-230 centimetres, occasionally reaching up to 5 metres at the summit.
Skiers can explore 10 kilometres of slopes ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced, supported by three lifts, including a 1,400-metre chairlift. The cosy mountain huts adopt refreshments like tea, coffee, and salep. Just an hour’s drive from Antalya, Saklıkent is perfect for a quick escape to enjoy Turkey winter travel and one of the best ski resorts in Turkey.
Best Season: From mid-December to early April.
Ilgaz Ski Resort, Surrounded by the Sea of Trees
Encircled by Ilgaz National Park (Ilgaz Dağı Milli Parkı), the forestry around is named “Sea of Trees” (ağaç denizi). At an altitude of 2,850 metres, Ilgaz Ski Resort brings one of the greatest scenic winter sports experiences in Turkey. Located on the Ilgaz Mountain Range between Kastamonu and Çankırı, this Turkish ski destination is perfect for winter enthusiasts and year-round nature lovers.
Ilgaz Ski Resort is a hotspot for Turkey winter travel, with two well-maintained tracks catering to skiers of all levels, including a 1,410-metre teleski on Track 2 and a night skiing option on Track 1. The summit café, Zirve, at 2,010 metres, showcases breathtaking views.
Accessible via Ankara or Kastamonu, the resort is just 1.5 kilometres from the main park entrance. Hotel shuttles and public transport make the journey seamless.
Best Season: From early December to April.
Other Ski Resorts in Turkey
Turkey's ski resorts are a goldmine of snow-filled adventure, with an assortment of destinations across every region.
Central Anatolia Region
With 9.4 kilometres of trails and five lifts, Ergan Dağı Ski Resort (Ergan Dağı kayak merkezi) reaches heights of up to 2,970 metres. Yıldız Dağı – Sivas (Yıldız Dağı kayak merkezi, Sivas), 2.552 metres high, has 8 kilometres of trails with three lifts.
Just 20 km from Ankara, Elmadağ Ski Resort (Elmadağ kayak merkezi) sits 1,850 metres above sea level. Perfect for day trips or short winter breaks, the resort features 1.5 km of slopes ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers. A single lift serves guests, with a T-bar encompassing 548 metres. Even though it’s small, the resort provides essentials like ski rentals and lessons. Visitors can enjoy nearby accommodations in Ankara, making it a convenient option for those seeking winter sports close to the capital. Accessible by road, train, or flights to Ankara, Elmadağ is a charming winter getaway.
Eastern Anatolia Region
Ardahan–Yalnızçam ski resort (Ardahan–Yalnızçam kayak merkezi) stretches across 9.6 kilometres with three lifts, set at 1,952 to 2,750 metres on Uğurludağ.
Abalı Ski Resort (Abalı Kayak Merkezi) is a hidden gem in Turkey’s winter wonderland, employing 8.7 kilometres of trails for skiers of all skill levels. With two lifts ascending to an impressive 2,800 metres, it’s a haven for snow enthusiasts. The resort’s crowning feature is its 2.5-kilometre chairlift, which provides effortless access to the summit. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Mount Süphan (Süphan Dağı), the expansive Van Lake (Van Gölü), and the iconic Akdamar Island (Akdamar Adası), creating a postcard-perfect panorama.
With 8.5 kilometres of slopes and a single lift, Nemrut Ski Resort (Nemrut kayak merkezi) is perched between 2,248 and 2,772 metres. Erzincan-Bolkar Ski Resort (Erzincan-Bolkar kayak merkezi) includes four lifts and rests between 1,940 and 2,275 metres. 4 kilometres of slopes are served by three lifts from 2,200 to 2,500 metres at Bubi Dağı Ski Resort (Ağrı) (Bubi Dağı kayak merkezi). A small setup with three lifts and a 200 metres descent, Zigana Ski Centre Resort (Zigana kayak merkezi) is located 40 kilometres from Gümüşhane, and the nearby airport lies in Trabzon (TZX).
Sit atop 25 kilometres from Bingöl city centre in Central Eastern Anatolia, Yolaçtı Ski Resort (Yolaçtı kayak merkezi) is equipped with a T-bar lift between 1,650 and 1,890 metres, serving a 1-kilometre slope suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. With a 50-bed ski lodge and essential services available in Bingöl, the resort welcomes visitors from December to March. Easily accessible by bus or car, the closest airport is in Muş (MSR), 80 kilometres east.
Hazarbaba Ski Centre Resort (Hazarbaba kayak merkezi) is located just 30 kilometres from Elazığ city and 6 kilometres from Sivrice. The resort will take your breath away with views of Lake Hazar (Hazar Gölü) and its serene alpine charm. With an 1,100-metre ski track and a 1,700-metre T-bar, in the resort snow depths range from 2 to 3 metres during the ski season from December to March. Facilities include a chairlift, a ski lodge, and a cosy café. While accommodation isn’t available on-site, nearby hotels near Lake Hazar provide comfortable options.
Near Lake Van, Bitlis Sapgõr Centre Ski Resort (Bitlis Sapgõr kayak merkezi) invites you on its challenging slopes on Dideban and Sapgor mountains. With snow depths of up to 2 metres from December to April, the resort features a 726-metre T-bar lift. Easily accessible via Muş (85 kilometres) or Van (160 kilometres).
Black Sea Region
Çambaşı Ski Resort (Çambaşı kayak merkezi) suggests 17.3 kilometres of slopes with two lifts, set amidst stunning Black Sea landscapes and peaking at 1,998 metres. With its 4.5 kilometres of slopes and two steady lifts, Yurduntepe Ski Resort (Yurduntepe kayak merkezi), nestles at 2,315 metres, inviting skiers to lose themselves in the quiet grandeur of the Black Sea highlands.
Marmara Region
Green Park Kartepe Resort & Spa (Kartepe Kayak Merkezi)-Izmit: nestled within its snowy embrace, the resort has 17 meticulously designed tracks, catering to both novices finding their footing and seasoned skiers chasing precision. Adhering to international benchmarks in safety and navigation, it crafts an experience where thrill and assurance glide seamlessly together.
Denizli Region
Three lifts serve Denizli Ski Resort's (Denizli kayak merkezi) intermediate-friendly area with 610 metres of vertical range.
Heli-Skiing Sites in Turkey
Kaçkar Range (Kaçkar Dağları), Anti-Taurus Mountains named also Aladağlar Range, Dağbaşı and Düldül Mountains—and Düziçi: Rugged terrains are ideal for untouched heli-skiing.
How to Spend the Best Ski Holidays in Turkey?
- Getting ready before travelling to a ski resort (body preparation)
Get ready for thrilling snow adventures in Turkey with these fitness tips! Strengthen your core and legs with squats and planks, perfect for undertaking the slopes at top Turkish ski destinations like Uludağ and Erciyes. Boost your stamina with cardio exercises such as cycling or running, ensuring you're prepared for the chilly air of Turkey’s winter sports havens. Whether it's snowboarding in Kartalkaya or skiing in Palandöken, proper preparation keeps you energised for Turkey’s unforgettable winter magic.
- Should You Buy a Ski Pass for the Day or the Entire Stay? Advice and Tips
Deciding between a day pass or a longer ski pass can shape your winter adventure. If you’re skiing infrequently, day passes give flexibility and cost efficiency. Families or avid skiers, however, may find multi-day or season passes more budget-friendly, especially with early booking discounts. Evaluate your plans, check for online promotions, and consider local or group pass options to customise the experience to your needs without overspending.
- Booking ski or snowboard lessons for groups, children, beginners, etc.
The perfect ski or snowboard lessons in Turkey are adjusted for groups, kids, and beginners alike. From the snowy slopes of Uludağ to the thrilling runs at Palandöken, Turkey has a variety of winter sports destinations ideal for learning and fun. Book lessons in advance to secure the best deals, save time, and enjoy an absolute adventure. Whether it’s your first time or you’re polishing your skills, Turkey’s top ski resorts, like Erciyes and Kartalkaya, provide expert instructors and trails for all levels.
- What ski equipment and outfits to wear on the slopes to be comfortable in?
Packing for a ski holiday doesn’t have to be exhausting. Stick to the basics: breathable base layers, waterproof jackets and trousers, and sturdy ski gloves. Renting gear like skis, boots, and helmets at the resort can save space in your luggage, while essentials like UV-protective lip balm and a flask for hot drinks are must-haves.
Plan ahead—book rentals early, especially for peak weeks, and wear your ski jacket on the plane to save luggage space. Don’t forget après-ski comfort: a beanie, comfortable shoes, and extra layers go a long way.
- Bring or Rent Ski Gear in Turkey: What’s Best for You?
Skiing in Turkey is a unique blend of stunning slopes and modern resorts, but the choice between renting or bringing your own gear can make or break your trip. Renting is ideal for beginners or travellers who want to avoid the hassle of transporting equipment, with plenty of options at Turkish resorts to suit varying needs. However, if you're a frequent skier and prefer customised gear, bringing your own might enhance your experience. Consider your budget, travel plans, and skiing style to make the best decision for a seamless adventure in Turkey's winter wonderland.
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance for Your Ski Holidays in Turkey
Ensure peace of mind whilst on ski holiday in Turkey with comprehensive travel insurance. Most of the insurances cover essential services like 24/7 emergency assistance, medical expenses, trip cancellations, and baggage protection. Whether you’re skiing or enjoying other winter sports, insurance plans offer coverage for snow activities and more. Protect yourself with added benefits like trip delays, rental vehicle excess, and pre-existing medical conditions coverage.
- Après-ski in Turkey
After a thrilling day on the slopes, Turkey provides après-ski adventures at its top ski resorts. Whether you're unwinding at a cosy mountain lodge in Uludağ or enjoying a lively atmosphere in Palandöken, the après-ski scene is a highlight of winter travel in Turkey. From relaxing with a warm drink to enjoying the local nightlife, Turkish ski destinations provide the perfect way to end your snow adventures. Explore the best skiing and snowboarding in Turkey while indulging in its unique après-ski culture.