Experience the winter wonders of Türkiye - Middle East Business News and Information
Türkiye, one of the world's top five most visited destinations, is a country where visitors can experience four seasons in all their glory. Aside from spring and summer, winter is an excellent time to view Türkiye's enchanting beauty in the snow. From various winter sports at world-class ski resorts to relaxing at balmy destinations, Türkiye's adventures for an unforgettable winter holiday are endless. Let's find out what winter activities await you in Türkiye.
Thrill of Ski and Winter Sports
The best way to fully enjoy the winter holiday in Türkiye is through its ski resorts on imposing mountains. With constant snow, impressive slopes, elegant hotels, and quality equipment, such resorts are suitable for winter sports, from skiing to snowboarding and heli-skiing to snowkiting . Uludağ in Bursa, popular for its proximity to İstanbul, offers excellent amenities like chairlifts and rental ski sets. Kocaeli's Kartepe, another popular destination close to İstanbul, provides more laid-back skiing adventures with slopes for skiers of every level. Kartalkaya in Bolu can also be another option near major cities. It has a lovely setting amid a lush forest, with snow parks and ski lifts. In central Anatolia, Mount Erciyes, an extinct volcano close to the Cappadocia region, impresses with 41 tracks and state-of-the-art facilities, easily accessible via frequent flights. Towards the east, Palandöken Mountain in Erzurum awaits to satisfy any pro with its steep slopes, the longest track in the country and powder snow. Then, there is Sarıkamış in the captivating winter wonderland in Eastern Anatolia, Kars. While the centre boasts Alpine-like crystal snow, nearby attractions like Çıldır Lake and the ancient city of Ani complete a magical winter experience in the city.
Cappadocia's Winter Magic
Cappadocia is always a mystical land to discover in Türkiye year-round; however, experiencing the region's fairy chimneys blanketed in snow offers an amazingly unique view. Staying in a cave hotel here is a bucket-list experience in winter. In these caves, converted into luxurious boutique hotels with modern amenities, you can sink into a deep sleep-in comfortable room, unwind in heated pools, spas and saunas, and warm up by the fireplace by sipping a glass of wine made from Cappadocia's local grapes . As the region has a deep historical background and rich cultural heritage, you can visit mysterious underground cities and attend a pottery workshop. Tasting the local cuisine, with delectable delicacies, such as testi (pottery) kebab and dry kaymak (cream), will perfectly complement this experience.
Cultural Immersions in İstanbul
Winter is the perfect time to explore the cultural scene of İstanbul, blending tradition and modernity in every corner. At every step, the city reveals panoramic vistas, historical landmarks, museums to visit, various events to attend, and local tastes to sample. You can visit the Historical Peninsula to see many of the city's iconic buildings, like Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, and feel the pulse of contemporary art and witness history at museums like İstanbul Modern, İstanbul Archaeology Museum and İstanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture. Before visiting İstanbul, don't forget to check the calendars of modern art centres such as Atatürk Cultural Centre (AKM) for a unique performance. As İstanbul is one of the world's top gastro cities, you can also dine at a Michelin Star restaurant or relish winter street tastes , from 'salep' and 'boza' to roasted chestnuts or corns and pickles with pickles juice.
Winter-sun Destinations: İzmir-Antalya
It's still possible to grasp a warm holiday during winter in Türkiye's Aegean and Mediterranean regions. The first city with warm weather is Aegean's pearl, İzmir, ranked in Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel 2024' list. While you can see many historical landmarks here, the city's charming villages are more welcoming during winter. For instance, in Urla, you can taste Aegean flavours at one of the Michelin Star restaurants , visit vineyards on the wine route and see the world's oldest olive oil workshop . Şirince, one of the Best Tourism Villages selected by UN Tourism, awaits visitors with its authentic atmosphere, delicious fruit wines, and vast olive groves on the other hand. The nearby ancient city of Ephesus also adds its allure. Another balmy spot is Turkish Riviera's star, Antalya, which has a mild year-round climate. The luxury hotels in the city offer relaxing spa amenities during this season. Then, you can visit ancient cities like Aspendos and natural beauties like Köprülü Canyon and play golf on Belek's top-notch courses. But if you feel like doing a winter activity, don't worry. After enjoying warm weather, you can ski at Saklıkent Ski Centre, just an hour from the city centre. Later, don't forget to sample local specialities, such as shellfish and piyaz (bean salad), and tasty delicacies from world cuisines with a glass of local wine.
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The Star
5 days ago
- The Star
Journey through the scenic wonders of Bohemian Switzerland
The rock formations seem straight out of a fantasy film, with some looking like giant mushrooms and others resembling turtles. Then there's the twisted Doggen tower and the Janus head, all part of the landscape of bizarre sandstone sculptures. Welcome to Tiske Steny (Tyssa Walls), a rock labyrinth in the Czech Republic, very close to the German border. It's been used as a backdrop for plenty of films, though, such as the location for The Chronicles Of Narnia. But anyone can go and hike through the area. And if you choose to head through the jagged formation of sandstone rocks and cliffs during off season, you can enjoy it almost to yourself. The German side, an Alpine-like area just south of Dresden called 'Saxon Switzerland' (Sachsische Schweiz), can get pretty crowded on weekends, drawing some two million walkers a year on weekends. But a few kilometres away, over the border in the Czech Republic, you can find peace and calm in the more remote areas of Bohemian Switzerland. 'That's exactly why I'm often drawn to this wonderful world of stones,' says Czech tour guide Sven Czastka, who often brings holidaymakers through the rocky landscape. 'The geological diversity in a small area makes the area a scenic jewel,' he says. 'Experienced hikers can get here from the Schweizermuhle mill through the Bielatal valley – a wonderful tour along the Hercules Columns, which measures around 20km as a circular route,' says Czastka. There's plenty to explore at the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. The rugged labyrinth of the Tyssa walls with its small caves and narrow passages is also a fun adventure for children who can enjoy clambering around. Young and grown up guests alike appreciate the refreshments available in the Turisticka Chata, a rustic restaurant at the entrance to the cliffs. On the way to the nearby High Snow Mountain (Decinsky Sneznik), at 723m the highest point in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Czastka talks about close cooperation with German partners. There are cross-border kayak trips on the Elbe Rover, cycling tours on the Elbe cycle path and the 105km-long Forststeig, a multi-day hike through both countries. Public and private local transport is coordinated across the border so that holidaymakers can explore both national parks and protected landscape areas, aided by a joint timetable. Photogenic place You can experience just how uncomplicated a cross-border tour can be on a trip on a hiking boat. It travels from Bad Schandau via Schmilka to Hrensko in the Czech Republic. The Schrammsteine tower up to 150m on the right side of the Elbe. The former border station behind Schmilka recalls times gone by. Once you arrive in Hrensko, one of the most exciting tours on Bohemian territory begins. The hiking trail winds steadily upwards along serpentine bends until you reach the Prebisch Gate (Pravcicka brana). At 16m high and with a span of 26.5m, the largest sandstone rock bridge in Europe is imposing and impressive. It is the landmark of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Mainly German hikers, but also tourists from Japan, Austria, Switzerland and Belgium compete for the best photo location. Even Prince Edmund Clary-Aldringen recognised the tourism potential of this natural wonder as early as 1881 and had a hiking trail and excursion castle built. Now, you can head to a restaurant offering goulash, dumplings and Czech beer. Good Czech food can be found along the border, refreshing for hikers who explore the national parks there. Impressive landscape Meanwhile if you are on the German side of the border, head to the Bastei bridge, a centuries-old stone structure built into a majestic 194m rock formation. It offers breathtaking views of the mystical landscape and the Elbe river winding through the valley below. The highlight for many is staring down the cliffs below the Bastei ramparts built into the sandstone landmark. However, if you have come to the Bastei for the perfect pic, you will need patience, as this is one of Germany's most popular day-trip destinations. But things should be easier thanks to a new platform 'floating' over the rock formation. After securing the rock, the platform, which is about 20m long and 3.5m wide, was placed above it. The US$3.4mil (RM14.45mil) construction is supported at the back of the rock and hangs freely in front at a low height, so that it seems to float. The Saxon Switzerland national park is located some 50km east of Dresden and can be easily reached via public transport. It's also great for a weekend trip from Berlin or Prague. Situated in a relatively inexpensive part of Germany, the nearby town of Bad Schandau with its hotels, restaurants and historic streetcar is a good starting point for hikes, and is about three hours from Berlin by train or car. – MICHAEL JUHRAN/dpa
Miami Herald
12-05-2025
- Miami Herald
Saxon-Bohemian Switzerland, a wonder world of weird rock formations
BAD SCHANDAU, Germany - The rock formations seem straight out of a fantasy film, with some looking like giant mushrooms and others resembling turtles. Then there's the twisted Doggen tower and the Janus head, all part of the landscape of bizarre sandstone sculptures. Welcome to Tiské stěny (Tyssa Walls), a rock labyrinth in the Czech Republic, very close to the German border. It's been used as a backdrop for plenty of films, though, such as the location for "The Chronicles of Narnia." But anyone can go and hike through the area. And if you choose to head through the jagged formation of sandstone rocks and cliffs during off season, you can enjoy it almost to yourself. The German side, an Alpine-like area just south of Dresden called "Saxon Switzerland" (Sächsische Schweiz), can get pretty crowded at weekends, drawing some 2 million walkers a year. But a few miles away, over the border int he Czech Republic, you can find peace and calm in the more remote areas of Bohemian Switzerland. Wonderful world of stones "That's exactly why I'm often drawn to this wonderful world of stones," says Czech tour guide Sven Czastka, who often brings holidaymakers through the rocky landscape. "The geological diversity in a small area makes the area a scenic jewel," he says. "Experienced hikers can get here from the Schweizermühle mill through the Bielatal valley - a wonderful tour along the Hercules Columns, which measures around 20 kilometers (12 miles) as a circular route," says Czastka. The rugged labyrinth of the Tyssa Walls with its small caves and narrow passages is also a fun adventure for children who can enjoy clambering around. Young and grown-up guests alike appreciate the refreshments available in the Turistická chata, a rustic restaurant at the entrance to the cliffs. On the way to the nearby High Snow Mountain (Decínský Snežník), at 2,400 feet the highest point in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Czastka talks about close cooperation with German partners. There are cross-border kayak trips on the Elbe Rover, cycling tours on the Elbe cycle path and the 65-mile Forststeig, a multi-day hike through both countries. Public and private local transport is coordinated across the border so that holidaymakers can explore both national parks and protected landscape areas, aided by a joint timetable. Photogenic natural wonderland You can experience just how uncomplicated a cross-border tour can be on a trip on a hiking boat. It travels from Bad Schandau via Schmilka to Hřensko in the Czech Republic. The Schrammsteine tower up to nearly 500 feet on the right side of the Elbe. The former border station behind Schmilka recalls times gone by. Once you arrive in Hřensko, one of the most exciting tours on Bohemian territory begins. The hiking trail winds steadily upward along serpentine bends until you reach the Prebisch Gate (Pravčická brána). At 52 feeet high and with a span of 85 feet, the largest sandstone rock bridge in Europe is imposing and impressive. It is the landmark of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Mainly German hikers, but also tourists from Japan, Austria, Switzerland and Belgium, compete for the best photo location. Even Prince Edmund Clary-Aldringen recognized the tourism potential of this natural wonder as early as 1881 and had a hiking trail and excursion castle built. Now, you can head to a restaurant offering goulash, dumplings and Czech beer. Impressive in Germany, too Meanwhile, if you are on the German side of the border, head to the Bastei bridge, a centuries-old stone structure built into a majestic 630-foot rock formation. It offers breathtaking views of the mystical landscape and the Elbe river winding through the valley below. The highlight for many is staring down the cliffs below the Bastei ramparts built into the sandstone landmark. However, if you have come to the Bastei for the perfect pic, you will need patience, as this is one of Germany's most popular day-trip destinations. But things should be easier thanks to a new platform "floating" over the rock formation. After securing the rock, the platform, which is about 60 feet long and 10feet wide, was placed above it. The $3.4 million construction is supported at the back of the rock and hangs freely in front at a low height, so that it seems to float. The Saxon Switzerland national park is located some 30 miles east of Dresden and can be easily reached via public transport. It's also great for a weekend trip from Berlin or Prague. Situated in a relatively inexpensive part of Germany, the nearby town of Bad Schandau with its hotels, restaurants and historic streetcar is a good starting point for hikes, and is about three hours from Berlin by train or car. _______ Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
Mid East Info
23-12-2024
- Mid East Info
Experience the winter wonders of Türkiye - Middle East Business News and Information
Türkiye, one of the world's top five most visited destinations, is a country where visitors can experience four seasons in all their glory. Aside from spring and summer, winter is an excellent time to view Türkiye's enchanting beauty in the snow. From various winter sports at world-class ski resorts to relaxing at balmy destinations, Türkiye's adventures for an unforgettable winter holiday are endless. Let's find out what winter activities await you in Türkiye. Thrill of Ski and Winter Sports The best way to fully enjoy the winter holiday in Türkiye is through its ski resorts on imposing mountains. With constant snow, impressive slopes, elegant hotels, and quality equipment, such resorts are suitable for winter sports, from skiing to snowboarding and heli-skiing to snowkiting . Uludağ in Bursa, popular for its proximity to İstanbul, offers excellent amenities like chairlifts and rental ski sets. Kocaeli's Kartepe, another popular destination close to İstanbul, provides more laid-back skiing adventures with slopes for skiers of every level. Kartalkaya in Bolu can also be another option near major cities. It has a lovely setting amid a lush forest, with snow parks and ski lifts. In central Anatolia, Mount Erciyes, an extinct volcano close to the Cappadocia region, impresses with 41 tracks and state-of-the-art facilities, easily accessible via frequent flights. Towards the east, Palandöken Mountain in Erzurum awaits to satisfy any pro with its steep slopes, the longest track in the country and powder snow. Then, there is Sarıkamış in the captivating winter wonderland in Eastern Anatolia, Kars. While the centre boasts Alpine-like crystal snow, nearby attractions like Çıldır Lake and the ancient city of Ani complete a magical winter experience in the city. Cappadocia's Winter Magic Cappadocia is always a mystical land to discover in Türkiye year-round; however, experiencing the region's fairy chimneys blanketed in snow offers an amazingly unique view. Staying in a cave hotel here is a bucket-list experience in winter. In these caves, converted into luxurious boutique hotels with modern amenities, you can sink into a deep sleep-in comfortable room, unwind in heated pools, spas and saunas, and warm up by the fireplace by sipping a glass of wine made from Cappadocia's local grapes . As the region has a deep historical background and rich cultural heritage, you can visit mysterious underground cities and attend a pottery workshop. Tasting the local cuisine, with delectable delicacies, such as testi (pottery) kebab and dry kaymak (cream), will perfectly complement this experience. Cultural Immersions in İstanbul Winter is the perfect time to explore the cultural scene of İstanbul, blending tradition and modernity in every corner. At every step, the city reveals panoramic vistas, historical landmarks, museums to visit, various events to attend, and local tastes to sample. You can visit the Historical Peninsula to see many of the city's iconic buildings, like Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, and feel the pulse of contemporary art and witness history at museums like İstanbul Modern, İstanbul Archaeology Museum and İstanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture. Before visiting İstanbul, don't forget to check the calendars of modern art centres such as Atatürk Cultural Centre (AKM) for a unique performance. As İstanbul is one of the world's top gastro cities, you can also dine at a Michelin Star restaurant or relish winter street tastes , from 'salep' and 'boza' to roasted chestnuts or corns and pickles with pickles juice. Winter-sun Destinations: İzmir-Antalya It's still possible to grasp a warm holiday during winter in Türkiye's Aegean and Mediterranean regions. The first city with warm weather is Aegean's pearl, İzmir, ranked in Lonely Planet's 'Best in Travel 2024' list. While you can see many historical landmarks here, the city's charming villages are more welcoming during winter. For instance, in Urla, you can taste Aegean flavours at one of the Michelin Star restaurants , visit vineyards on the wine route and see the world's oldest olive oil workshop . Şirince, one of the Best Tourism Villages selected by UN Tourism, awaits visitors with its authentic atmosphere, delicious fruit wines, and vast olive groves on the other hand. The nearby ancient city of Ephesus also adds its allure. Another balmy spot is Turkish Riviera's star, Antalya, which has a mild year-round climate. The luxury hotels in the city offer relaxing spa amenities during this season. Then, you can visit ancient cities like Aspendos and natural beauties like Köprülü Canyon and play golf on Belek's top-notch courses. But if you feel like doing a winter activity, don't worry. After enjoying warm weather, you can ski at Saklıkent Ski Centre, just an hour from the city centre. Later, don't forget to sample local specialities, such as shellfish and piyaz (bean salad), and tasty delicacies from world cuisines with a glass of local wine.
