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Türkiye's premier ski destinations, Palandoken in Erzurum and Erciyes in Kayseri, are experiencing a surge in popularity among foreign tourists seeking affordable winter holidays.
This season, Erciyes aims to host 3 million visitors, while Palandoken targets over 500,000 guests.
These numbers reflect a growing trend in Türkiye's winter tourism, driven by competitive pricing, diverse attractions and enhanced accessibility.
Erciyes Ski Center, located near Kayseri, has emerged as a hub for international visitors. Charter flights from Poland and the Czech Republic have already begun, with Scandinavian tourists expected for the first time this year.
Kayseri Erciyes AS General Manager Zafer Aksehirlioglu stated that their goal is to double last year's foreign visitor count, aiming for 100,000 international guests. In 2024, Erciyes attracted 50,000 foreign tourists out of a total of 2.5 million visitors.
Erciyes's appeal lies in its affordability and convenience.
Visitors to Erciyes can also enjoy additional winter activities such as snowboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing.
Latin American visitors, especially from Brazil and Mexico, along with travelers from Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, often combine their visits to Cappadocia with Erciyes.
Scandinavian families and groups from the U.K. are also among the anticipated arrivals this year.
Palandoken Ski Center, nestled in the Palandoken mountains near Erzurum, boasts some of the longest and steepest slopes in the world. With 22 runs, including two Olympic-standard tracks, the center is ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
According to Dedeman Hotels' Chairman Ergun Demiray, foreign interest in Palandoken continues to grow, particularly from European countries such as Italy, Germany and Poland. Iran and Russia also remain significant markets, despite occasional declines in tourist numbers from these regions.
Palandoken's high-altitude location ensures consistent snowfall throughout the season, and its dry climate provides ideal skiing conditions. The resort is also famous for its night skiing experience, where visitors can enjoy the slopes under floodlights.
For those who prefer a mix of adventure and relaxation, Palandoken offers cozy mountain lodges and luxurious spa facilities.
While Palandoken and Erciyes lead the way, Türkiye offers numerous other ski resorts catering to different preferences and skill levels. From the crystal snow of Sarikamis to the alpine charm of Uludag, the country's winter destinations provide unique experiences.
Uludag is known as Türkiye's oldest and largest ski resort.
The resort is easily accessible by cable car from Bursa city center, offering stunning views along the way.
Famous for its "kristal kar" (crystal snow), Sarikamis offers an unparalleled skiing experience.
Many tourists pair their ski trips with explorations of the region's rich heritage.
This ski destination is located in the Koroglu Mountains.
Situated near the Mediterranean, Davraz combines stunning views of Lake Egirdir with pistes ranging from beginner-friendly trails to advanced courses.
Davraz's relaxed ambiance appeals to families and couples seeking a peaceful retreat.
Just 130 kilometers from Istanbul, Kartepe is a favorite for short trips and day visits.
Visitors can enjoy local specialties such as trout and cornbread at nearby restaurants.
Uniquely positioned near the Mediterranean coast, Saklikent allows visitors to ski in the morning and swim in the sea by afternoon.
Its cozy chalets and small-town charm provide a relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
This lesser-known gem in Eastern Anatolia offers pristine "crystal snow" similar to Sarikamis and caters to skiers looking for a quieter destination. Its unique geographical location adds to its appeal to adventurous travelers.
Yalnizcam's unspoiled natural beauty makes it a great choice for eco-tourists and photographers. The region's local culture and cuisine also provide a distinct flavor to the travel experience.
With increasing global recognition, Türkiye's ski resorts are carving a niche in the competitive winter tourism market.
Affordable prices, high-quality facilities, and the added allure of cultural and historical sites make the country an attractive option for tourists.
3 min read
