t's friendly, beautiful, culturally rich and good value for money. It's modern enough to be comfortable yet traditional enough to be interesting.
Turkey is one of the world's top 10 travel destinations, welcoming more than 23 million visitors every year.
Culture & Art: Turkey's history of human habitation goes back 25,000 years. Some of the earliest-known human communities are here. Hittites, Phrygians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, Seljuks, Mongols, Ottomans and others have all left their works of art and culture in what is now the Turkish homeland. Modern Turkey has all this—and more mobile phones than you've ever seen in one place before.
Special-Interest Activities: With nearly 8400 km (5200 mi) of coastline, water sports and yachting are big favorites. Hiking, white-water rafting, mountain-climbing and bicycling are all important, and growing, as is skiing. My favorite of all is hot-air ballooning.
Cuisine: Turkish food is now world-famous, and rightly so. The abundance of its fields, farms, orchards, flocks and fishing boats is exceptional, and Turkish chefs take full advantage of this bounty. Everyone comments on how good the food is. Not only that, the moderately-priced gourmet dinner (plus wine) is still easy to do. Then there's Turkish tea....
Good Times: Sit at a long table in a taverna in Istanbul, Kusadasi, Bodrum, Antalya, order a glass of beer, wine or pungent raki and join in the songs and stories. Turks revel in good food, good friends, good times, and good nightlife.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Purchase craze continues to increase: Therapy places are not sufficient
Purchase craze is just as far common in Germany as depression. In the meantime there is proven therapies, which help concerning from the craze, the demand exceeds however meanwhile the therapy places, which there are in this country.
Attain Ludwigshafen - at the first sight Michael Neuner was shaken. In the cellar of the woman the bags to under the cover piled up themselves, as far as the eye is enough. Not possibly to also only enter the area. From the shopping bags articles of clothing, on which still the labels hung, poured untouched and ungetragen. The shock sits deeply, although Michael Neuner knows long: The lady is purchase addicted. It contacted it, because it concerns itself at the transatlantic institute of the college of further education in Ludwigshafen with the diseased purchase.
Ever more and ever more expensively
The concerning would feel the irresistible urge to buy, say Neuner. At the sight of the commodity they lose any control and feel in a forced manner to slam shut. Untreatedly this impulse control disturbance accepts ever more drastic extents: It is bought ever more and ever more expensively. Only for the moment the purchase action makes itself thereby a feeling of the satisfaction broadly, that shortly thereafter
into debt feelings however often changes, because the concerning it becomes conscious that they transacted an unnecessary provision.
“Nearly always buy the products concerned, which never use it, which keep it then at home or” Neuner give away, describe. Pretty often the behavior disturbance is noticeable only if the account slips due to the constant expenditures in the minus. The existence-threatening situation does not make it possible then longer to lock before the mental problem the eyes.
Purchase craze is as far common as depression
Although the phenomenon of the purchase craze hardly made speeches so far of itself, it is just as far common as depressions. The Leipziger psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin described it already at the beginning 20. Century as “Oniomanie”. In the meantime about, calculated the Ludwigshafener purchase craze researcher is purchase-look for-endangered eight per cent of the Germans on the basis an inquiry. “I assume the number will continue to rise”, says Neuner.
Women and men prefer thereby different products: While to shoes, clothes, Kosmetika or food seizes you, it avails itself with electronic devices and sports articles. With the purchases the concerning compensate a self value feeling lacking or displace fears, describe Neuner some the causes. In addition, the temptations of the Shoppings were never larger than today. Special offers signs at each corner, commodity can be acquired in rates or on credit, and in the Internet is enough even more only one click. The money disappears meanwhile quietly and invisibly from the purse.
Behavior therapy analyzes purchase behavior
Although the purchase craze ruins many households burdening and relations, so far nobody had systematically examined, how can be helped to the concerning. Martina de Zwaan of the Psychosomati and Psychotherapeuti department of the University of attaining Nuremberg closed this gap now. It submitted of ten weeks a group of 62 purchase-addicted long one
Behavior therapy.
First the purchase behavior was analyzed, all purchases had to be logged. “An indispensable first step is, between inadequate and appropriate purchases to differentiate”, describes it. “The group dynamics constitute thereby very much because the concerning can expose themselves mutually better.” In the reality the useless provisions often become as necessary
justified. A female patient umdekoriert for example once in the month their dwelling and had to buy Deko articles for it constantly. Only after the unnecessary purchases are uncovered, becomes in that
Therapy searched for possible causes.
With this working method de Zwaan could achieve a large success: All participants profited of the group therapy. A great many could control their inclination to buy. A half year after
nobody had suffered a relapse, how she reports in the “journal OF Clinical Psychiatry”. Somewhat less effectively the therapy proved with those participants, those the bought products strongholds. One must include that strongholds into the therapy, believes de Zwaan. It would like to develop the therapy further for it.
“Absolute Abstinenz cannot be a therapy goal”
The concerning will not have healed in addition, after the therapy - similarly as alcohol or drug-dependent. They will feel the urge again and again to buy much. It becomes also back cases
give, get straight de Zwaan. Buy is socially appreciative, neither tabuisiert nor dispensable like drug consumption. “Absolute Abstinenz can be no therapy goal”, says the Erlanger female scientist. Purchase-susceptible mind must learn to deal with their Faible and to understand a unique shopping frenzy as warning signal, in order to seize measures.
Since the Erlanger offers group of therapy meetings for purchase-addicted, announce themselves more and more concerning. Long the places in the courses are not sufficient. De Zwaan hopes now that other Psychotherapeuten likewise offers the specific therapy. (strip packing)
Attain Ludwigshafen - at the first sight Michael Neuner was shaken. In the cellar of the woman the bags to under the cover piled up themselves, as far as the eye is enough. Not possibly to also only enter the area. From the shopping bags articles of clothing, on which still the labels hung, poured untouched and ungetragen. The shock sits deeply, although Michael Neuner knows long: The lady is purchase addicted. It contacted it, because it concerns itself at the transatlantic institute of the college of further education in Ludwigshafen with the diseased purchase.
Ever more and ever more expensively
The concerning would feel the irresistible urge to buy, say Neuner. At the sight of the commodity they lose any control and feel in a forced manner to slam shut. Untreatedly this impulse control disturbance accepts ever more drastic extents: It is bought ever more and ever more expensively. Only for the moment the purchase action makes itself thereby a feeling of the satisfaction broadly, that shortly thereafter
into debt feelings however often changes, because the concerning it becomes conscious that they transacted an unnecessary provision.
“Nearly always buy the products concerned, which never use it, which keep it then at home or” Neuner give away, describe. Pretty often the behavior disturbance is noticeable only if the account slips due to the constant expenditures in the minus. The existence-threatening situation does not make it possible then longer to lock before the mental problem the eyes.
Purchase craze is as far common as depression
Although the phenomenon of the purchase craze hardly made speeches so far of itself, it is just as far common as depressions. The Leipziger psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin described it already at the beginning 20. Century as “Oniomanie”. In the meantime about, calculated the Ludwigshafener purchase craze researcher is purchase-look for-endangered eight per cent of the Germans on the basis an inquiry. “I assume the number will continue to rise”, says Neuner.
Women and men prefer thereby different products: While to shoes, clothes, Kosmetika or food seizes you, it avails itself with electronic devices and sports articles. With the purchases the concerning compensate a self value feeling lacking or displace fears, describe Neuner some the causes. In addition, the temptations of the Shoppings were never larger than today. Special offers signs at each corner, commodity can be acquired in rates or on credit, and in the Internet is enough even more only one click. The money disappears meanwhile quietly and invisibly from the purse.
Behavior therapy analyzes purchase behavior
Although the purchase craze ruins many households burdening and relations, so far nobody had systematically examined, how can be helped to the concerning. Martina de Zwaan of the Psychosomati and Psychotherapeuti department of the University of attaining Nuremberg closed this gap now. It submitted of ten weeks a group of 62 purchase-addicted long one
Behavior therapy.
First the purchase behavior was analyzed, all purchases had to be logged. “An indispensable first step is, between inadequate and appropriate purchases to differentiate”, describes it. “The group dynamics constitute thereby very much because the concerning can expose themselves mutually better.” In the reality the useless provisions often become as necessary
justified. A female patient umdekoriert for example once in the month their dwelling and had to buy Deko articles for it constantly. Only after the unnecessary purchases are uncovered, becomes in that
Therapy searched for possible causes.
With this working method de Zwaan could achieve a large success: All participants profited of the group therapy. A great many could control their inclination to buy. A half year after
nobody had suffered a relapse, how she reports in the “journal OF Clinical Psychiatry”. Somewhat less effectively the therapy proved with those participants, those the bought products strongholds. One must include that strongholds into the therapy, believes de Zwaan. It would like to develop the therapy further for it.
“Absolute Abstinenz cannot be a therapy goal”
The concerning will not have healed in addition, after the therapy - similarly as alcohol or drug-dependent. They will feel the urge again and again to buy much. It becomes also back cases
give, get straight de Zwaan. Buy is socially appreciative, neither tabuisiert nor dispensable like drug consumption. “Absolute Abstinenz can be no therapy goal”, says the Erlanger female scientist. Purchase-susceptible mind must learn to deal with their Faible and to understand a unique shopping frenzy as warning signal, in order to seize measures.
Since the Erlanger offers group of therapy meetings for purchase-addicted, announce themselves more and more concerning. Long the places in the courses are not sufficient. De Zwaan hopes now that other Psychotherapeuten likewise offers the specific therapy. (strip packing)
Kabinettt decides measures for the promotion of the child health
Kabinettt decides measures for the promotion of the child health
Berlin (strip packing). The Federal Government wants to proceed strengthened against health risks for children. In particular the government wants “the fight against alcohol, tobacco and cannabis further
intensifies”, said federal health minister Ulla Schmidt (SPD) with the conception of the package of measures on Tuesday in Berlin. The paper had decided the cabinet in the Tuesday morning.
A goal are the promotion of the health equal chances, the decrease of health risks and accidents as well as the support of the psychological and physical development of the children. In addition the Federal Government wants to develop the information offers. And a “continuous health reporting on the way
bring”.
In addition one plans a development of the early recognition investigations for children. At present participate according to Schmidt 86 per cent of all children until six years in it. Particularly children from socially weak families would take rare preventive medical examinations, at the same time are suspended them up in increased measure of accident risks. By invitation and acknowledging systems the government wants to reach that in the future all children are examined.
Berlin (strip packing). The Federal Government wants to proceed strengthened against health risks for children. In particular the government wants “the fight against alcohol, tobacco and cannabis further
intensifies”, said federal health minister Ulla Schmidt (SPD) with the conception of the package of measures on Tuesday in Berlin. The paper had decided the cabinet in the Tuesday morning.
A goal are the promotion of the health equal chances, the decrease of health risks and accidents as well as the support of the psychological and physical development of the children. In addition the Federal Government wants to develop the information offers. And a “continuous health reporting on the way
bring”.
In addition one plans a development of the early recognition investigations for children. At present participate according to Schmidt 86 per cent of all children until six years in it. Particularly children from socially weak families would take rare preventive medical examinations, at the same time are suspended them up in increased measure of accident risks. By invitation and acknowledging systems the government wants to reach that in the future all children are examined.
Algae as food Teil3
Algae as food Teil3
Alga two sorts their effect on bodies and health to be too highly estimated cannot.
Spirulina
Beside the large nutrient pallet also this alga has an outstanding characteristic. Certain materials affect the enzymes, which repair our DNA/RNA in the human body favorably the Endonucleasen. Thus it supports effectively the complete preservation of the function of each individual cell and can even help to prevent the degeneration of cells, as it is with cancer the case. Since Spirulina can take up particularly well materials from the water, she is enriched still more frequently than other algae with additional nutrients. It contains then - actually kind stranger - special minerals or selenium, which makes further auxiliary preparations in some cases redundant. On energetic level you are repeated a grounding and body-strengthening effect.
Depr. alga
Their nutrient offer is surely the broadest and highest at all accompanied from the pleasant fact that it is not heated up, like Chlorella and Spirulina, in order from harmful bacteria to be released. The Klamath lake is clean and their nutrients remains complete. From all algae it contains the most proteins and germanium, a material, which is valid like beta carotin as high-quality Antioxidant further with 68% and which pineal gland and hypophysis suggest. It has more insatiated fatty acids than Fischöl and contains 2000 enzymes.
Alga binds heavy metals in the body
Experts explain, them would have the ability to out-transmit heavy metals particularly from the brain. Logically you are attributed a strong effect on our emotional well-being and our concentration ability. It makes “easier thoughts” energetic, clarifies, makes deeper meditation possible and reduces our sleep need. The liver-damaging Microcystin, which was found recent in alga mixture preparations, which contained depr. algae, and in such a way donated, did not become confusion as can be prove not in the depr. alga found, but added in the further the preparation.
Which alga for whom?
With all these different emphasis it lies near that we particularly need an alga for certain times and for special purposes, whereby also a mixture is possible. Which alga sort is the correct with which dosage for us particularly or for the supporting effect of our body, one clarifies at the best one with a welfare practical man or a nourishing advisor.
Alga two sorts their effect on bodies and health to be too highly estimated cannot.
Spirulina
Beside the large nutrient pallet also this alga has an outstanding characteristic. Certain materials affect the enzymes, which repair our DNA/RNA in the human body favorably the Endonucleasen. Thus it supports effectively the complete preservation of the function of each individual cell and can even help to prevent the degeneration of cells, as it is with cancer the case. Since Spirulina can take up particularly well materials from the water, she is enriched still more frequently than other algae with additional nutrients. It contains then - actually kind stranger - special minerals or selenium, which makes further auxiliary preparations in some cases redundant. On energetic level you are repeated a grounding and body-strengthening effect.
Depr. alga
Their nutrient offer is surely the broadest and highest at all accompanied from the pleasant fact that it is not heated up, like Chlorella and Spirulina, in order from harmful bacteria to be released. The Klamath lake is clean and their nutrients remains complete. From all algae it contains the most proteins and germanium, a material, which is valid like beta carotin as high-quality Antioxidant further with 68% and which pineal gland and hypophysis suggest. It has more insatiated fatty acids than Fischöl and contains 2000 enzymes.
Alga binds heavy metals in the body
Experts explain, them would have the ability to out-transmit heavy metals particularly from the brain. Logically you are attributed a strong effect on our emotional well-being and our concentration ability. It makes “easier thoughts” energetic, clarifies, makes deeper meditation possible and reduces our sleep need. The liver-damaging Microcystin, which was found recent in alga mixture preparations, which contained depr. algae, and in such a way donated, did not become confusion as can be prove not in the depr. alga found, but added in the further the preparation.
Which alga for whom?
With all these different emphasis it lies near that we particularly need an alga for certain times and for special purposes, whereby also a mixture is possible. Which alga sort is the correct with which dosage for us particularly or for the supporting effect of our body, one clarifies at the best one with a welfare practical man or a nourishing advisor.
Lack of physician: Ever more medical student want to emigrate
Lack of physician: Ever more medical student want to emigrate
Germany runs away the physician new generation. A study according to the Ruhr University want to move away ever more medical student abroad. Frightening it is also that as family doctors want to practice to only 17 per cent of the beginning medical profession
Bochum - Germany threatens according to a media report an exodus freshly trained physician. To approximately 70 per cent of the medical students wanted to go to conclusion of their training abroad, reports the news magazine to “focus” with reference to a so far unpublished study of the Ruhr University to Bochum. The department for general medicine asked 4000 medical students in all of Germany for its investigation after their future plans. The medicine Ökonomin Dorothea Osenberg had led and called the study the results “frightening”. She sees the patient supply in Germany endangered.
Occupation of family doctor likes little
The studying called the work times, the budgeting of the achievements as well as the remuneration as most important reasons for their drift desires. Only 22 per cent of the asked ones want to establish itself as physicians. A nearly just as high portion excludes this. On the other hand can 38 per cent a patient-far activity imagine. Is the occupation of the family doctor likes little. According to study want only 17 per cent of the medical students this direction to take.
Germany runs away the physician new generation. A study according to the Ruhr University want to move away ever more medical student abroad. Frightening it is also that as family doctors want to practice to only 17 per cent of the beginning medical profession
Bochum - Germany threatens according to a media report an exodus freshly trained physician. To approximately 70 per cent of the medical students wanted to go to conclusion of their training abroad, reports the news magazine to “focus” with reference to a so far unpublished study of the Ruhr University to Bochum. The department for general medicine asked 4000 medical students in all of Germany for its investigation after their future plans. The medicine Ökonomin Dorothea Osenberg had led and called the study the results “frightening”. She sees the patient supply in Germany endangered.
Occupation of family doctor likes little
The studying called the work times, the budgeting of the achievements as well as the remuneration as most important reasons for their drift desires. Only 22 per cent of the asked ones want to establish itself as physicians. A nearly just as high portion excludes this. On the other hand can 38 per cent a patient-far activity imagine. Is the occupation of the family doctor likes little. According to study want only 17 per cent of the medical students this direction to take.
Sarah Connors mother brought two boys to the world
Sarah Connor became on Tuesday to the sixth and seventh mark sister. Mother Soraya brought her two boys in the evening to o'clock against nine to the world. Both mother and the two boys probably are.
Sarah Connor becomes with 27 sister
The mother of the most well-known German Popsängerin Sarah Connor, brought Tuesday evening, in the university clinic Hamburg Eppendorf (UHK) two boys to the world. Soraya, and their two boys are outstanding, communicated the father and husband of the 50-Jährigen the “pictures” opposite newspaper. After the interview the twins saw to 27.05. against 21 o'clock the first time the eyesight. Sorayas husband announced in the discussion, they would be overjoyed over the birth of the two desire children.
Mother with 50 and sister with 27
Sorayas prominent daughter Sarah Connor participated with the birth of their brothers number six and seven in the circle hall also. The names of the newborn children were not announced yet.
Sarah Connor becomes with 27 sister
The mother of the most well-known German Popsängerin Sarah Connor, brought Tuesday evening, in the university clinic Hamburg Eppendorf (UHK) two boys to the world. Soraya, and their two boys are outstanding, communicated the father and husband of the 50-Jährigen the “pictures” opposite newspaper. After the interview the twins saw to 27.05. against 21 o'clock the first time the eyesight. Sorayas husband announced in the discussion, they would be overjoyed over the birth of the two desire children.
Mother with 50 and sister with 27
Sorayas prominent daughter Sarah Connor participated with the birth of their brothers number six and seven in the circle hall also. The names of the newborn children were not announced yet.
Reproaches wants new tourism offers for patients to create
Reproaches wants new tourism offers for patients to create
Mountains (strip packing nrd). With tourist special offers for older and gotten sick humans the island reproaches wants to form itself more strongly than health island. But at present medical mechanisms as well as established physicians, Physiotherapeuten, the hotel trade and the food production developed new vacation offers, said the managing director of the SANA hospital, Dietrich Goertz, on Friday on the occasion of a constituency visit of Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) in mountains.
Are prepared for example special vacation offers for diabetic, families with handicapped children as well as patients, who suffer from incontinence or heart complaints. Besides the association health island reproaches registered association wants to react to the increasing immigration of pensioners and to establish for example a age university and Institut for adult qualification. In order to secure the treatment of patients also in the future, Goertz suggested reducing the medical service of the health insurance (MDK) in personnel and using set free physicians again in the attendance of patients.
Merkel had conversed before during a tour by the clinical center with physicians and care forces about the present situation of the mechanism. In the early afternoon it is expected for the inauguration of a biological gas facility in mountains.
Mountains (strip packing nrd). With tourist special offers for older and gotten sick humans the island reproaches wants to form itself more strongly than health island. But at present medical mechanisms as well as established physicians, Physiotherapeuten, the hotel trade and the food production developed new vacation offers, said the managing director of the SANA hospital, Dietrich Goertz, on Friday on the occasion of a constituency visit of Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) in mountains.
Are prepared for example special vacation offers for diabetic, families with handicapped children as well as patients, who suffer from incontinence or heart complaints. Besides the association health island reproaches registered association wants to react to the increasing immigration of pensioners and to establish for example a age university and Institut for adult qualification. In order to secure the treatment of patients also in the future, Goertz suggested reducing the medical service of the health insurance (MDK) in personnel and using set free physicians again in the attendance of patients.
Merkel had conversed before during a tour by the clinical center with physicians and care forces about the present situation of the mechanism. In the early afternoon it is expected for the inauguration of a biological gas facility in mountains.
Mountaineering in Turkey
Mountaineering in Turkey
Mountaineering in Turkey
A glance at a topographical map of Turkey reveals that this is a country of mountains. Rising from all four directions, mountains encircle the peninsula of Anatolia. A part of the Alpine-Himalayan Mountain range, Turkey has mountainous regions with different geological formations. The North Anatolian range skirts the Mediterranean shore.
Turkey's magnificent mountains and forests are mostly undeveloped, existing as wonderful natural preserves for an extraordinary variety of wild life, flora and fauna. Two of Turkey's most famous peaks are volcanoes, both inactive ,Mt. Erciyes in Kayseri in Central Anatolia (3917 m) and Mt. Agri; (Mt. Ararat 5137 m) in the east. Other mountain ranges are the Rize Kackar (3932 m) in the eastern Black Sea region, Nigde Aladag; (3756 m) in the central Taurus range and the Cilo and Sat mountains (4136 m) near Hakkari in the eastern Taurus.
The mountainous nature of the country has influenced its cultural evolution. For centuries, nomads and semi nomadic peoples have moved yearly to the fresh pastures of the higher elevations in the summer. These alpine meadows, called "yayla", house nomadic people whose traditional culture is still preserved.
For climbers and those interested in the geography of mountains, Turkey offers a wealth of exploration. Glaciers, volcanoes, and peculiar geological formations such as karst prove irresistible to researchers and students of the geology. The challenging terrain offers opportunities to aficionados of outdoor sports, who find the most interesting experiences on the mountains of eastern, central and southern Turkey.
There are many skiing resorts in Turkey as well.
The Great Mount of Agri
(Ararat, 5137m)
Mount AraratStanding the nearby cities of Agri and Igdir, at the borders of Turkey and Iran, Mount Agri is an inactive volcano capped year round with ice and snow and rises to 5137 meters. The Old Testament records that it was on this mountain that Noah's Ark came to rest after the great flood. Southwest of the mountain, the Little Mount Agri (Ararat) reaches up to 3896 meters; the Serdarbulak lava plateau (2600 m) stretches out between the two pinnacles. Climbing the spectacular Agri is a challenging and rewarding experience.
In the summer, the weather in the area and on Mount Agri is sunny, warm and dry. However, in the winter and spring, cold and harsh conditions prevail, and mountain climbers occasionally face blizzards and turbulent weather. July, August, and September are the months when most world mountain climbers come to the area. Climbing up Agri is most enjoyable during this period. However, despite the usual sunny and clear weather at that time of year, high altitude mountain weather swirls around above 3000 meters. The southern side of the mountain offers the easiest and safest climb to the summit. With this route one has access to the best route communication and transportation facilities and it is safe. It is not recommended nor permitted to climb Mount Agri alone and without a guide.
The Trabzon - Erzurum - Iran International Transit Highway, an asphalt road skirts the western and southern flanks of Agri before leading into Iran. Dogubeyazit, 270 km from Erzurum and nearby Igdir, the two closest towns to the mountain, are located on this route. Planes, trains, and buses connect Erzurum with Ankara.
The area surrounding Mount Agri has retained its natural beauty. The local population still engages in a traditional life styles. In the summer months the villagers move to the "yayla", the summer pastures, to find fresh grazing for their herds of sheep, goats, cattle and horses. Women continue to weave carpets and kilims in time honored designs; Village of Ortulu is particularly renowned as a center of beautiful handicrafts. Other nearby tourist attractions include the Ishakpasha Palace, a fabulous 18th century castle of a local ruler, and the meteor hole near the Iranian border.
Mount Agri (Ararat) became 35th National Park of Turkey with the decision of the Parliament on 1st of November, 2004.
The Cilo-Sat Mountain Range
(4136m)
The Cilo-Sat mountains, within the southeastern Hakkari province are the eastern extension of the Toros (Taurus) mountain chain which stretches from west to east along Turkey's southern boundaries. The mountain range forms the western section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136 meters, the Uludoruk summit is the highest in the Cilo mountains; Catalkaya (Samdi), which rises to 3794 meters crowns the Sat mountains.
Resembling the Alps both in general appearance and glacier topography, the Cilo-Sat mountains are the areas in Turkey most affected by glaciers. The high altitudes of the mountains testify to the effects of glacial formation and water erosion. Of the ten differently shaped glaciers, the largest, Izbirak, measures five kilometers in length, 500-600 meters in width. It reaches up to 100 meters in depth.
A wide arid expanse stretches across the southern base of the mountain range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful precipitation during the winter months. In between crests and summits, fertile green valleys dotted with rural settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal for wine and fruit agriculture.
Above the low valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain slopes at altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters. Herds of domestic animals, the raising of which makes up the primary economic activity of the region, graze on these pastures.
Arduous and elevated summits, high glaciers, glacial rivers and fast moving streams combine to make the Cilo-Sat mountains both a fascinating geographic and geological site of worldwide importance and a national park of spectacular beauty. The best time for summer excursions is during June, July, August and September. For winter climbing February and March are the most suitable months.
To reach the Cilo-Sat mountains, travel to Van from Ankara by road, rail, or air and then follow the 245 km long highway to Hakkari. Serpil village offers one route for an ascent of Uludoruk.
A vast plateau, "yayla" culture has evolved on the Cilo and Sat mountains, and the summer migration of the colorfully clad local population to the high grazing pastures is a memorable event. Mountain glaciers and swiftly running rivers alive with fish and beautiful glacier lakes are a few of the area's natural wonders.
The Kackar Mountains
In the rainy and lush landscapes of northeastern Turkey, the Kackar mountains form the northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain. The Kackar - Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3932 meters, is the highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged look, and they are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes. In fact, this range is the third most important glacial region in Turkey following the Agri (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat mountains. The geological and mountaineering aspects of the Kackars contribute to their importance in Turkey's economy and tourism.
The region enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate of temperate yet rainy weather with an average temperature of 14 Celcius. The lowest temperature, 7 Celcius, fall in the month of January while August sees the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded temperature of 22.6 Celcius.
The Kackars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to the north and the River Coruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a good variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate. Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam, beech and other large leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees until gradually they remain the only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows and other grassy vegetation covers the ground above 2100 meters. On the southern faces of the Kackars, which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruits and vines. As on the north side in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and grass blanket the slopes up to 2300 meters.
The Altiparmak, Kavron, Varsamba mountains are the principal peaks of the Kackars. Both the north and south faces of the Altiparmak and Kavron can be scaled but Varsamba should only be attempted from the north face. It is imperative to use a local guide when climbing the Kackars.
The Toros (Taurus) Mountains
The Toros Mountains are the western most branch of the great mountain chain that stretches across all of Asia - the Himalayan mountain belt. The Turkish section of this massive mountain range follows the southern border of Anatolia and it is made up of four major sections, the Western, Central, Southern and Southeastern Toros ranges. The highest peaks rises out of the Central and Southeastern branches, a stretch of mountains which are rugged, magnificent and arduous to climb.
The Toros Aladaglar Mountains
Forming part of the Central Toros range, the Aladaglar range runs from the southwest to the northeast for approximately 50 kilometers. It is between 25 and 30 kilometers wide and boasts the region's highest peak, Demirkazik which stretches to 3756 meters. Other high summits include Kizilkaya in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688 meters in the south and Mount Vayvay in the East (3565m). The long range is situated in the provinces of Nigde and Adana and rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti river.
The geological formation of the area is responsible for the interesting rock formations and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has created a fascinating karstic topography and hydrography, especially in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground rivers and caverns collect the surface water. Both the Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the climate of the Aladaglar bringing warm summers and cool winters to the mountains.
The best season to climb the mountains is during June, July and August when the alpine meadows of higher elevations are rich in vegetation.
Researchers and mountaineers ascending the Aladaglar usually begin their climb from either Camardi or Cukurbag villages. Those attempting to climb the Demirkazik summit depart from Demirkazik village. Both of these village lie 65 km from Nigde and can be reached by an asphalt road.
The plateau, "yayla" of the Toros Aladag are the summer homes of entire villages and the summer grazing of herds of animals. Be sure to see the gathering in of all the animals for milking. Traditionally women of these encampment have produced some of Turkey's most beautiful carpets and kilims, and it is often possible to see a carpet still in progress.
Mount Erciyes
(3917m)
One of Turkey's most important mountaineering and winter sports centers, Mount Erciyes, rises from the south of the Kayseri valley. The Sultan Marshes lie to its west and to the south falls the Develi valley. Its summit always covered with snow and ice, Mt. Erciyes ranks as central Anatolia's tallest volcano.
Approximately 18 kilometers in diameter and covering an area of 1000 square kilometers, the mountain's stratification and geology make it a fascinating geographical formation. The region's climate, influenced by that of the Anatolian plateau is typical steppe. Winter brings considerable snowfall to higher elevations. The northern side of the mountain enjoys a more temperate climate encouraging the cultivation of vast areas of vine and fruit orchards between 1100 and 1600 meters. Above that altitude, expanses of meadows stretch far into the distance. The higher elevations display typical alpine vegetation. Herds of animals graze year round on the east, north and west slopes of the mountain.
Mountaineers attempt Mt. Erciyes either on the northwestern flank or from the south and find the best climbing in June, July, August and September.
Tourists visiting the area should also see the fantastic rock formations, underground cities and fabulous frescoes in rock carved churches in neighboring Cappadocia. The Sultan Marshes, a habitat for many different species of birds, has been fortunately designated a national park and wildlife preserve.
Mount Nemrut
(3050m)
In fact, Turkey can boast of two peaks called Nemrut. The one near Adiyaman in the southeast is primarily of historical and archaeological interest, home for over 2000 years to the colossal stone heads of King Antiochus I and classical deities. The other mount Nemrut in in eastern Anatolia, the more interesting of the two peaks, is well known for its geological formation and for mountaineering purposes.
An inactive volcano, Mt. Nemrut nearby Tatvan ascends to 3050 m. It is located within the process of Bitlis, rising from the southwestern shore of Lake Van, and entering the district of Ahlat to the north. Mt. Nemrut is the most southern and youngest of the chain of volcanoes in the eastern Anatolia. A strato type volcano, Mt. Nemrut began erupting during the fourth geological era and continued to be active until 1441 A.D. As a result of the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Nemrut, the single Van - Mus rivers basin was divided into two separate basins.
Treks up Mt. Nemrut begin on the mountain's southeastern flank at Tatvan. Climbers reach the south or southeastern side of the crater after an easy hike for 4-5 hours. Those who reach this point have the rare chance to see the wondrous crater of this inactive volcano. For those who find the climb to the crater too strenuous, four-wheel drive vehicles can reach the summit from either Ahlat or Tatvan.
Mt. Nemrut is bare of vegetation, except in the south which has oak groves and birch trees. Summer (June - September) is the best season for expeditions in Mt. Nemrut. Hikers who climb to the crater and summit from the southeast or eastern face of the mountain are rewarded with wonderful views of Lake Van.
Mount Suphan
(4058m)
Mount Suphan, a magnificent dormant volcano rises from the north-west shores of Lake Van. Throughout the winter, snow falls on Suphan reaching three to four meters. The mountain's steep slopes and snow blanket combine to make it a good location for "Heli-skiing", using helicopters to drop you off on the slopes for an adventure of high mountain skiing.
The easily accessible southern and eastern flanks of Suphan are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain; they both offer spectacular views. To climb from the eastern flank take the coast road that circles Lake Van. In the stretch between Adilcevaz and Ercis, turn north to Aydinlar village. From there you continue on to Kicgilli, village where you engage a guide to lead you in your ascent. The climb from the south begins at the village of Harmantepe.
The Beydaglari Mountains
The western branch of the Toros (Taurus) mountains, the Beydaglari range, is located in the province of Antalya. The crest of the range parallels the north-south line of the western shore of the Gulf of Antalya. The crest of the range parallels the north-south line of the western shore of the Gulf of Antalya. With altitudes ranging between 600 and 3086 meters, these mountains offer geologists and geographers many peculiar morphological characteristics. Tekedorugu, Bakirlidag, Tahtalidag and Kizlarsivrisi summits are particularly remarkable.
The highest peak in the mountains is Mt. Kizlarsivrisi (3086 m). Climbers reach the peak through the cedar forested Camcukuru valley. The best way to get to the valley is by road inland from Antalya to Elmali. Antalya, of course, can be reached from Izmir, Istanbul and Ankara by land, air and sea routes.
Mount Tahtali, west of Kemer, offers another interesting ascent. Rising to an elevation of 2360 meters, pine and deciduous forests cover the slopes up to an altitude of 2000 meters. Bare meadows stretch to the summit. The climb up Mt. Tahtali begins at Sogukpinar, a short drive from Kemer. From there both walking and climbing bring you to a place for camping. The final ascent is carried out on the flank facing the coast and offers a spectacular and ever-changing view. There is also a newly-built long cable car bringing people directly to the summit in about 12 minutes. It's planned to build a ski track on Mt. Tahtali in the near future.
Although it is possible to organize trips to Beydaglari all year round, April, May and June offer both a temperate climate and a chance to experience the rich vegetation in the region.
The Bolkar Mountains
(3524m)
Continuing the line of summits in a southeastern direction, the Bolkar Mountains are bounded by the River Goksu to the west and the River Pozanti to the east. The northern part of the mountains lies in Nigde province, while the southern peaks rise in Mersin province.
These mountains exhibit interesting geological characteristics. Made of sedimentary material such as limestone and dolomites, the range reveals excellent examples of nappies, or folds in the layers of rocks. There are vast formations of karst as well as landscapes that reveal the effects of glacier and water erosion. Despite this erosion, no water network has developed on the mountains. Because of the sedimentary nature of rocks, water is absorbed underground creating large areas of karst, such as Pozanti and Sekerpinari.
The highest peaks of the Bolkar are: Medetsiz (3524 m), Kesifdagi (3475 m), Koyunasagi (3426 m), Tahtakaya (3372 m) and Egerkaya (3347 m). The north flank receives the most exposure to snow and glacier formation; it is nevertheless the best route for an ascent to the highest summits of the Bolkar.
The Munzur Mountains
The northeastern extension of the central Toros (Taurus) range, the Munzur range straddles both the Tunceli and Erzincan provinces. Mt. Akbaba, at 3462 meters, is the highest summit in the Mercandagi range. The limestone geological formation of these mountains creates a rugged profile.
Erzincan, a major city north of the mountain range and accessible by air, rail and road, is the base from which an ascent on the northern face can be attempted. Those wishing to climb the mountain from the south begin their trek at Ovacik in the middle of the Munzur mountains. Climbers entering from this point can reach the highest summits of the Munzur. Ovacik lies 70 kilometers away from Erzincan and is accessible by a road which follows the banks of the Munzur valley. The River Munzur which rushes through a national park tempts tourists with fresh fish and beautiful mountain scenery.
Useful Information and Resources on Mountain Tourism and Sports
* Ministry of Tourism Tourist Information Office
Ismet Inonu Bulvari , No 5, Ankara. Tel:(312) 212 83 00/20 70 Fax: (312) 213 68 87
* Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Mountaineering Federation
Ulus, Ankara. Tel: (312) 310 15 78 Fax:(312) 310 15 78
* Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Skiing Federation
Ulus, Ankara. Tel: (312) 311 07 64 Fax: (312) 311 07 64
* Union of Turkish Travel Agents
Asik Kerem Sokak, No:42 Dikilitas-Besiktas, Istanbul.
Tel: (212) 259 84 04 Fax: (212) 259 06 56
Mountaineering and Skiing Clubs
1. ATATURK UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Erzurum.
2. ANKARA UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch, Ankara.
3. HACETTEPE UNIVERSITY, Mountaineering, Skiing and Outdoor Sports Club, Ankara.
4. MIDDLE EAST TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Ankara.
5. ERCIYES UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Kayseri.
6. BOSPHORUS UNIVERSITY, Mountaineering Club , Bebek, Istanbul.
7. YILDIZ UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch, Yildiz, Istanbul.
Source: Turkey.org
Mountaineering in Turkey
A glance at a topographical map of Turkey reveals that this is a country of mountains. Rising from all four directions, mountains encircle the peninsula of Anatolia. A part of the Alpine-Himalayan Mountain range, Turkey has mountainous regions with different geological formations. The North Anatolian range skirts the Mediterranean shore.
Turkey's magnificent mountains and forests are mostly undeveloped, existing as wonderful natural preserves for an extraordinary variety of wild life, flora and fauna. Two of Turkey's most famous peaks are volcanoes, both inactive ,Mt. Erciyes in Kayseri in Central Anatolia (3917 m) and Mt. Agri; (Mt. Ararat 5137 m) in the east. Other mountain ranges are the Rize Kackar (3932 m) in the eastern Black Sea region, Nigde Aladag; (3756 m) in the central Taurus range and the Cilo and Sat mountains (4136 m) near Hakkari in the eastern Taurus.
The mountainous nature of the country has influenced its cultural evolution. For centuries, nomads and semi nomadic peoples have moved yearly to the fresh pastures of the higher elevations in the summer. These alpine meadows, called "yayla", house nomadic people whose traditional culture is still preserved.
For climbers and those interested in the geography of mountains, Turkey offers a wealth of exploration. Glaciers, volcanoes, and peculiar geological formations such as karst prove irresistible to researchers and students of the geology. The challenging terrain offers opportunities to aficionados of outdoor sports, who find the most interesting experiences on the mountains of eastern, central and southern Turkey.
There are many skiing resorts in Turkey as well.
The Great Mount of Agri
(Ararat, 5137m)
Mount AraratStanding the nearby cities of Agri and Igdir, at the borders of Turkey and Iran, Mount Agri is an inactive volcano capped year round with ice and snow and rises to 5137 meters. The Old Testament records that it was on this mountain that Noah's Ark came to rest after the great flood. Southwest of the mountain, the Little Mount Agri (Ararat) reaches up to 3896 meters; the Serdarbulak lava plateau (2600 m) stretches out between the two pinnacles. Climbing the spectacular Agri is a challenging and rewarding experience.
In the summer, the weather in the area and on Mount Agri is sunny, warm and dry. However, in the winter and spring, cold and harsh conditions prevail, and mountain climbers occasionally face blizzards and turbulent weather. July, August, and September are the months when most world mountain climbers come to the area. Climbing up Agri is most enjoyable during this period. However, despite the usual sunny and clear weather at that time of year, high altitude mountain weather swirls around above 3000 meters. The southern side of the mountain offers the easiest and safest climb to the summit. With this route one has access to the best route communication and transportation facilities and it is safe. It is not recommended nor permitted to climb Mount Agri alone and without a guide.
The Trabzon - Erzurum - Iran International Transit Highway, an asphalt road skirts the western and southern flanks of Agri before leading into Iran. Dogubeyazit, 270 km from Erzurum and nearby Igdir, the two closest towns to the mountain, are located on this route. Planes, trains, and buses connect Erzurum with Ankara.
The area surrounding Mount Agri has retained its natural beauty. The local population still engages in a traditional life styles. In the summer months the villagers move to the "yayla", the summer pastures, to find fresh grazing for their herds of sheep, goats, cattle and horses. Women continue to weave carpets and kilims in time honored designs; Village of Ortulu is particularly renowned as a center of beautiful handicrafts. Other nearby tourist attractions include the Ishakpasha Palace, a fabulous 18th century castle of a local ruler, and the meteor hole near the Iranian border.
Mount Agri (Ararat) became 35th National Park of Turkey with the decision of the Parliament on 1st of November, 2004.
The Cilo-Sat Mountain Range
(4136m)
The Cilo-Sat mountains, within the southeastern Hakkari province are the eastern extension of the Toros (Taurus) mountain chain which stretches from west to east along Turkey's southern boundaries. The mountain range forms the western section of the Himalayan mountain belt. At 4136 meters, the Uludoruk summit is the highest in the Cilo mountains; Catalkaya (Samdi), which rises to 3794 meters crowns the Sat mountains.
Resembling the Alps both in general appearance and glacier topography, the Cilo-Sat mountains are the areas in Turkey most affected by glaciers. The high altitudes of the mountains testify to the effects of glacial formation and water erosion. Of the ten differently shaped glaciers, the largest, Izbirak, measures five kilometers in length, 500-600 meters in width. It reaches up to 100 meters in depth.
A wide arid expanse stretches across the southern base of the mountain range. The highlands, in contrast, receive plentiful precipitation during the winter months. In between crests and summits, fertile green valleys dotted with rural settlements, enjoy a temperate climate that makes them ideal for wine and fruit agriculture.
Above the low valleys, alpine meadows blanket the mountain slopes at altitudes between 2000 and 3100 meters. Herds of domestic animals, the raising of which makes up the primary economic activity of the region, graze on these pastures.
Arduous and elevated summits, high glaciers, glacial rivers and fast moving streams combine to make the Cilo-Sat mountains both a fascinating geographic and geological site of worldwide importance and a national park of spectacular beauty. The best time for summer excursions is during June, July, August and September. For winter climbing February and March are the most suitable months.
To reach the Cilo-Sat mountains, travel to Van from Ankara by road, rail, or air and then follow the 245 km long highway to Hakkari. Serpil village offers one route for an ascent of Uludoruk.
A vast plateau, "yayla" culture has evolved on the Cilo and Sat mountains, and the summer migration of the colorfully clad local population to the high grazing pastures is a memorable event. Mountain glaciers and swiftly running rivers alive with fish and beautiful glacier lakes are a few of the area's natural wonders.
The Kackar Mountains
In the rainy and lush landscapes of northeastern Turkey, the Kackar mountains form the northern section of the Anatolian mountain chain. The Kackar - Kavron summit, at an altitude of 3932 meters, is the highest point in the range. Extensive glacier and water erosion have given these mountains their craggy, rugged look, and they are known for the complexity and power of the streams and rivers which rush down to the lower altitudes. In fact, this range is the third most important glacial region in Turkey following the Agri (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat mountains. The geological and mountaineering aspects of the Kackars contribute to their importance in Turkey's economy and tourism.
The region enjoys an almost sub-tropical climate of temperate yet rainy weather with an average temperature of 14 Celcius. The lowest temperature, 7 Celcius, fall in the month of January while August sees the hottest days reaching a maximum recorded temperature of 22.6 Celcius.
The Kackars rise in between the shores of the Black Sea to the north and the River Coruh valley to the south. On the northern flank, a good variety of vegetation flourishes in the rainy climate. Up to 500 meters above sea level, tea plantations and citrus orchards cover the hillsides. Chestnut, hornbeam, beech and other large leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees forest the slopes to 750 meters. Between 750-1500 meters of elevation, pines mix in with the large leafed trees until gradually they remain the only species of tree from 1500-2000 meters. Alpine meadows and other grassy vegetation covers the ground above 2100 meters. On the southern faces of the Kackars, which receive strong sunshine and less precipitation, the agriculture is based on the cultivation of fruits and vines. As on the north side in the higher elevations, meadows of wild flowers and grass blanket the slopes up to 2300 meters.
The Altiparmak, Kavron, Varsamba mountains are the principal peaks of the Kackars. Both the north and south faces of the Altiparmak and Kavron can be scaled but Varsamba should only be attempted from the north face. It is imperative to use a local guide when climbing the Kackars.
The Toros (Taurus) Mountains
The Toros Mountains are the western most branch of the great mountain chain that stretches across all of Asia - the Himalayan mountain belt. The Turkish section of this massive mountain range follows the southern border of Anatolia and it is made up of four major sections, the Western, Central, Southern and Southeastern Toros ranges. The highest peaks rises out of the Central and Southeastern branches, a stretch of mountains which are rugged, magnificent and arduous to climb.
The Toros Aladaglar Mountains
Forming part of the Central Toros range, the Aladaglar range runs from the southwest to the northeast for approximately 50 kilometers. It is between 25 and 30 kilometers wide and boasts the region's highest peak, Demirkazik which stretches to 3756 meters. Other high summits include Kizilkaya in the center (3725 m), a peak that reaches 3688 meters in the south and Mount Vayvay in the East (3565m). The long range is situated in the provinces of Nigde and Adana and rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti river.
The geological formation of the area is responsible for the interesting rock formations and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has created a fascinating karstic topography and hydrography, especially in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground rivers and caverns collect the surface water. Both the Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the climate of the Aladaglar bringing warm summers and cool winters to the mountains.
The best season to climb the mountains is during June, July and August when the alpine meadows of higher elevations are rich in vegetation.
Researchers and mountaineers ascending the Aladaglar usually begin their climb from either Camardi or Cukurbag villages. Those attempting to climb the Demirkazik summit depart from Demirkazik village. Both of these village lie 65 km from Nigde and can be reached by an asphalt road.
The plateau, "yayla" of the Toros Aladag are the summer homes of entire villages and the summer grazing of herds of animals. Be sure to see the gathering in of all the animals for milking. Traditionally women of these encampment have produced some of Turkey's most beautiful carpets and kilims, and it is often possible to see a carpet still in progress.
Mount Erciyes
(3917m)
One of Turkey's most important mountaineering and winter sports centers, Mount Erciyes, rises from the south of the Kayseri valley. The Sultan Marshes lie to its west and to the south falls the Develi valley. Its summit always covered with snow and ice, Mt. Erciyes ranks as central Anatolia's tallest volcano.
Approximately 18 kilometers in diameter and covering an area of 1000 square kilometers, the mountain's stratification and geology make it a fascinating geographical formation. The region's climate, influenced by that of the Anatolian plateau is typical steppe. Winter brings considerable snowfall to higher elevations. The northern side of the mountain enjoys a more temperate climate encouraging the cultivation of vast areas of vine and fruit orchards between 1100 and 1600 meters. Above that altitude, expanses of meadows stretch far into the distance. The higher elevations display typical alpine vegetation. Herds of animals graze year round on the east, north and west slopes of the mountain.
Mountaineers attempt Mt. Erciyes either on the northwestern flank or from the south and find the best climbing in June, July, August and September.
Tourists visiting the area should also see the fantastic rock formations, underground cities and fabulous frescoes in rock carved churches in neighboring Cappadocia. The Sultan Marshes, a habitat for many different species of birds, has been fortunately designated a national park and wildlife preserve.
Mount Nemrut
(3050m)
In fact, Turkey can boast of two peaks called Nemrut. The one near Adiyaman in the southeast is primarily of historical and archaeological interest, home for over 2000 years to the colossal stone heads of King Antiochus I and classical deities. The other mount Nemrut in in eastern Anatolia, the more interesting of the two peaks, is well known for its geological formation and for mountaineering purposes.
An inactive volcano, Mt. Nemrut nearby Tatvan ascends to 3050 m. It is located within the process of Bitlis, rising from the southwestern shore of Lake Van, and entering the district of Ahlat to the north. Mt. Nemrut is the most southern and youngest of the chain of volcanoes in the eastern Anatolia. A strato type volcano, Mt. Nemrut began erupting during the fourth geological era and continued to be active until 1441 A.D. As a result of the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Nemrut, the single Van - Mus rivers basin was divided into two separate basins.
Treks up Mt. Nemrut begin on the mountain's southeastern flank at Tatvan. Climbers reach the south or southeastern side of the crater after an easy hike for 4-5 hours. Those who reach this point have the rare chance to see the wondrous crater of this inactive volcano. For those who find the climb to the crater too strenuous, four-wheel drive vehicles can reach the summit from either Ahlat or Tatvan.
Mt. Nemrut is bare of vegetation, except in the south which has oak groves and birch trees. Summer (June - September) is the best season for expeditions in Mt. Nemrut. Hikers who climb to the crater and summit from the southeast or eastern face of the mountain are rewarded with wonderful views of Lake Van.
Mount Suphan
(4058m)
Mount Suphan, a magnificent dormant volcano rises from the north-west shores of Lake Van. Throughout the winter, snow falls on Suphan reaching three to four meters. The mountain's steep slopes and snow blanket combine to make it a good location for "Heli-skiing", using helicopters to drop you off on the slopes for an adventure of high mountain skiing.
The easily accessible southern and eastern flanks of Suphan are the preferred faces for ascending the mountain; they both offer spectacular views. To climb from the eastern flank take the coast road that circles Lake Van. In the stretch between Adilcevaz and Ercis, turn north to Aydinlar village. From there you continue on to Kicgilli, village where you engage a guide to lead you in your ascent. The climb from the south begins at the village of Harmantepe.
The Beydaglari Mountains
The western branch of the Toros (Taurus) mountains, the Beydaglari range, is located in the province of Antalya. The crest of the range parallels the north-south line of the western shore of the Gulf of Antalya. The crest of the range parallels the north-south line of the western shore of the Gulf of Antalya. With altitudes ranging between 600 and 3086 meters, these mountains offer geologists and geographers many peculiar morphological characteristics. Tekedorugu, Bakirlidag, Tahtalidag and Kizlarsivrisi summits are particularly remarkable.
The highest peak in the mountains is Mt. Kizlarsivrisi (3086 m). Climbers reach the peak through the cedar forested Camcukuru valley. The best way to get to the valley is by road inland from Antalya to Elmali. Antalya, of course, can be reached from Izmir, Istanbul and Ankara by land, air and sea routes.
Mount Tahtali, west of Kemer, offers another interesting ascent. Rising to an elevation of 2360 meters, pine and deciduous forests cover the slopes up to an altitude of 2000 meters. Bare meadows stretch to the summit. The climb up Mt. Tahtali begins at Sogukpinar, a short drive from Kemer. From there both walking and climbing bring you to a place for camping. The final ascent is carried out on the flank facing the coast and offers a spectacular and ever-changing view. There is also a newly-built long cable car bringing people directly to the summit in about 12 minutes. It's planned to build a ski track on Mt. Tahtali in the near future.
Although it is possible to organize trips to Beydaglari all year round, April, May and June offer both a temperate climate and a chance to experience the rich vegetation in the region.
The Bolkar Mountains
(3524m)
Continuing the line of summits in a southeastern direction, the Bolkar Mountains are bounded by the River Goksu to the west and the River Pozanti to the east. The northern part of the mountains lies in Nigde province, while the southern peaks rise in Mersin province.
These mountains exhibit interesting geological characteristics. Made of sedimentary material such as limestone and dolomites, the range reveals excellent examples of nappies, or folds in the layers of rocks. There are vast formations of karst as well as landscapes that reveal the effects of glacier and water erosion. Despite this erosion, no water network has developed on the mountains. Because of the sedimentary nature of rocks, water is absorbed underground creating large areas of karst, such as Pozanti and Sekerpinari.
The highest peaks of the Bolkar are: Medetsiz (3524 m), Kesifdagi (3475 m), Koyunasagi (3426 m), Tahtakaya (3372 m) and Egerkaya (3347 m). The north flank receives the most exposure to snow and glacier formation; it is nevertheless the best route for an ascent to the highest summits of the Bolkar.
The Munzur Mountains
The northeastern extension of the central Toros (Taurus) range, the Munzur range straddles both the Tunceli and Erzincan provinces. Mt. Akbaba, at 3462 meters, is the highest summit in the Mercandagi range. The limestone geological formation of these mountains creates a rugged profile.
Erzincan, a major city north of the mountain range and accessible by air, rail and road, is the base from which an ascent on the northern face can be attempted. Those wishing to climb the mountain from the south begin their trek at Ovacik in the middle of the Munzur mountains. Climbers entering from this point can reach the highest summits of the Munzur. Ovacik lies 70 kilometers away from Erzincan and is accessible by a road which follows the banks of the Munzur valley. The River Munzur which rushes through a national park tempts tourists with fresh fish and beautiful mountain scenery.
Useful Information and Resources on Mountain Tourism and Sports
* Ministry of Tourism Tourist Information Office
Ismet Inonu Bulvari , No 5, Ankara. Tel:(312) 212 83 00/20 70 Fax: (312) 213 68 87
* Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Mountaineering Federation
Ulus, Ankara. Tel: (312) 310 15 78 Fax:(312) 310 15 78
* Department of Youth and Sports Turkish Skiing Federation
Ulus, Ankara. Tel: (312) 311 07 64 Fax: (312) 311 07 64
* Union of Turkish Travel Agents
Asik Kerem Sokak, No:42 Dikilitas-Besiktas, Istanbul.
Tel: (212) 259 84 04 Fax: (212) 259 06 56
Mountaineering and Skiing Clubs
1. ATATURK UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Erzurum.
2. ANKARA UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch, Ankara.
3. HACETTEPE UNIVERSITY, Mountaineering, Skiing and Outdoor Sports Club, Ankara.
4. MIDDLE EAST TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Ankara.
5. ERCIYES UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering and Skiing Branch, Kayseri.
6. BOSPHORUS UNIVERSITY, Mountaineering Club , Bebek, Istanbul.
7. YILDIZ UNIVERSITY, Department of Sports Mountaineering Branch, Yildiz, Istanbul.
Source: Turkey.org
Sports in Turkey
Sports in Turkey
Turkish sports
Sailing and Boat Trips, Gulet Cruising
Turkey has four bordering seas; the Black Sea, Marmara Sea, Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, so it not surprising that cruising is a popular sport. There are many cruising charters available. Gulets are traditional motor yachts and gulet holidays are becoming increasingly popular. Best Gulets are build in Marmaris and Bodrum.
Scuba Diving
Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are the best places to dive. It is also possible to dive to shipwrecks from World War I (with special permission of local authorities) in Gallipoli, Canakkale. Diving for purposes of sport, with proper equipment and in non-restricted areas, is permitted. Foreign divers should have official documentation of their qualification, training and must be accompanied, when diving, by a licensed Turkish guide. The limit for diving with diving gear is 30 meters. For educational purposes, this limit is extended to 42 meters. Dives exceeding 30 meters must be done with proper diving and medical equipment. In order to protect Turkish archaeological and cultural treasures, it is strictly forbidden to transport or export Turkish antiquities or natural specimens. Detailed information can be obtained from any Turkish Tourist Information Office.
As an achievement, a young Turkish woman Yasemin Dalkilic broke several world records in Free diving category by diving with an unsupported fixed weight at a depth of 46,05 meters in 1:51 minutes in 2001, with a limited variable weight at a depth of 105 meters in 2:38 minutes in 2001, and with an unlimited variable weight at a depth of 120 meters in 2000.
Rafting & Canoeing
Turkey's rivers provide perfect conditions for canoeing and rafting, for both beginners and experienced, because of their length, depth and water regime. Some of the best rivers for rafting are: Coruh, Barhal, Berta, Firtina, Colak, Koprucay, Manavgat, Dragon, Goksu (Silifke), Zamanti, Goksu (Feke), Kizilirmak and Dalaman Cayi. Especially Coruh river (grade 5 and 4) is rated as one of the Top 10 white water rafting places in the world. 4th World Water sports Championships was held here in 1993 with approximately 300 competitors from 28 countries. Kayaking is also getting popular in some of the rivers.
Windsurfing
The bays around Cesme, Bodrum and Datca peninsulas, as well as Antalya, have ideal wind conditions for windsurfing. Turkey's Aegean shores are among the best windsurfing and kite surfing areas in the Mediterranean. The coastal plain enjoys an exceptionally mild climate, with soft, verdant springs, hot summers, sunny autumns and warm winters marked by occasional showers. For windsurfing and sun-bathing summer months are ideal.
Alacati has a shallow area that extends 500 meters out from the beach. Combined with flat water, no tides or currents, this is a perfect place to improve technique, speed surfing and freestyle. It is an ideal place to learn to water start. The wind in Alacati (in Cesme) is an accelerated Meltemi that is funneled through the hills. A local thermal effect caused by the dry hills heating up increases the strength. It's windy all the time, most reliable in the summer. The wind will blow for a large part of the day, the strongest being in the afternoon. From May to end September the wind is medium to strong (2-6 beaufort) and during the winter strong southerly winds take over from October to March (4-8 beaufort).
In Bodrum - Bitez area the season runs from late May to Early November with the strongest winds being in June through September. During the morning the wind is gentle making it ideal for the rookies, followed by hard winds for the trained surfer in the afternoon. Temperatures are hot all times, except during the night during the first few weeks at the beginning and end of the season. The sea is warm throughout.
Teos is located on the west coast south of Izmir and a great place for beginners and others that need to get techniques like the water start, turns and tricks straightened out. The bay has a shallow area so that you can stand, where's once out of the bay the space is free for speeding or slalom. The most consistent wind is the Meltemi during the summer months, blowing from the north/northwest reaching 5 to 6 beaufort in strength. When you're in the bay and something comes up that you can't make it back to shore, the wind will just make you drift to one side of the bay, so you can just take your rigging and walk along the shoreline back to where you launched. Round noon-ish it tends to die down a little, but picks up again in the afternoon.
Fishing
Fishing can be done without a license in non-prohibited and non-military areas as long as you're an amateur, using amateur and non-commercial equipment, multi-hooked lines, and fishing nets not weighing more than 5 kilograms. Commercial fishing by foreigners might result in heavy penalties. Latest details concerning fishing zones, the minimum sizes of fish that can be caught, and the numbers of fish that can be caught per person, can be obtained from the Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. Especially Aegean and Mediterranean seas are rich fishing areas.
Flying & Ballooning
Plane gliding, hang gliding, parachuting, paragliding and single engine flights are catered for as well as services that provide instruction courses. Best areas are Fethiye, Eskisehir, Pamukkale, Ephesus and Istanbul.
Hot air Balloon rides can be taken daily over Cappadocia near Nevsehir. Each flight is a fantastic experience as you float intimately amongst the fairy chimneys and soar over the magnificent Cappadocian landscape. They usually carry between 6 and 16 passengers and depart very early in the morning to catch the sunrise and gentle winds, lasting for about 1-1.5 hours.
Caving (Spelunking)
The most beautiful and interesting caves are located in the Toros regions along the Mediterranean coast, southeast, northwest Anatolia and Thrace. With an approximate number of 40.000 caves and caverns present, Turkey is like a paradise of caverns and spelunking when compared to other countries. An important geologic - geomorphologic fact in the formation of caverns is karstification (karstic fields) and this karstification is present especially in Western and Central Taurus Mountains (Mugla, Antalya, Isparta, Burdur, Konya, Karaman, Icel and Adana). The longest (Pinarozu Cavern, 16 km west of Beysehir Lake) and the deepest (Cukurpinar Sinkhole, 1880 meters at the south of Anamur) caves of Turkey are present on this mountain belt. The exact number of caves investigated and documented by all local and foreign cave explorers is approximately 800 so far.
Hunting
Please note that hunting can only be done in parties organized by official Turkish travel agencies which have been authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
Geographic structure of Turkey, is appropriate for development of hunt tourism in connection with its plant cover and wild life. Hunting grounds, which will be opened to hunting tourism, with considering the hunting animals potential of the country, are determined and announced by Ministry of Forests (National Parks, Hunting and Wild Life General Directorate). Foreign tourist hunters, can hunt with Hunting Tourism Permission Certificate, issued to A Class Travel Agencies by Ministry of Forest. Also, foreign tourist hunters can only hunt species and breed that set free within private hunting grounds approved by Ministry of Forest, National Parks and Hunt - wild Life General Directorate.
Foreign tourist hunters, who can hunt by means of Travel Agencies, according to the related decision of MAK (Central Hunt Commission) and regulation related with the application of 6136 Numbered Law, can bring their hunting guns and accessories together with them.
Wild animals allowed for hunting in Turkey are determined each year according to their species and hunting periods. These changes are determined by the decisions of the Central Hunting Commission which has been organized each year. Bear, hook horned mountain goat (Samua), wild goat (Bezoar), wild boar, lynx, wolf, jackal, fox, from big hunting animals, are served against its value to usage of national and foreign hunters under hunting tourism title.
Football
Football (Soccer) is Turkey's national sport and is played everywhere. Some of the well known teams are: Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Besiktas and Trabzonspor. At this stage Turkish football is at a very important point. Turkish national teams are struggling with the strongest teams in the world and are getting more and more successful results. The U-16 and U-18 National Teams had achieved to be the champions and to get degrees in the European Youth Championships and the Mediterranean Championships.
The A-National Team was qualified for the 17th FIFA World Cup in 2002 in Korea/Japan reaching semifinals and they became the third best team of the world. In this Cup, the goal scored by Hakan Sukur at the 11th second of the match played between the Turkish and the Korean national teams was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as "the earliest goal scored in a world cup match". Lately, during the Euro 2008 Cup, Turkey played in the semifinals again and became one of the "best 4 teams of Europe".
The Galatasaray football team, defeating Arsenal at the UEFA Cup Finals in 1999-2000 season, won the UEFA title as well as the Super Cup when it overcame the "European Champion League" champion Real Madrid.
Golf
In recent years, as golf courses with international standards have opened up, Turkey has become an elite golfing centre where players from around the world can meet in an environment of quality and prestige. Especially the area of Belek, 30km east of Antalya, is a potential for golf tourism with the unique bonus of the cultural, historical and natural sightseeing of the region. Top-class courses are also being planned for Istanbul, Ankara and Mugla. In Turkey, most courses are in the vicinity of tourist resorts, around the coastal regions which have the necessary facilities like accommodation, restaurants and entertainment. The Ministry of Tourism plans to establish other 11 golf courses in these tourist areas.
You can play golf at these facilities: Gloria Golf Resort, Nobilis Golf Hotel, Klassis Golf and Country, Kemer Golf Country Club, National Golf Club, Tat Golf. And many others are on the way.
Skiing
Winter sports resorts in Turkey are generally located in forested mountains. The following ski centers are easily accessible by road or by Turkish Airlines domestic flights: Bursa Uludag, Antalya Saklikent, Bolu Kartalkaya, Erzurum Palandöken, Kars Sarikamis, Kayseri Erciyes, Ankara Elmadag, Ilgaz Dagi, Zigana Gümüshane. For more information on Skiing please Click Here.
Mountaineering
Special permission is needed to climb the Büyük Agri (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat ranges. It is generally advisable to inform the Turkish Mountaineering Club of the region and time of the intended climb. The Club will then inform the relevant authorities. For more information on mountaineering and world famous mountains in Turkey, Click Here please.
Trekking/Backpacking
Trekking or Backpacking mainly takes the form of hill walking; which is a pity, because the country is made for backpacking. Some of the best and popular trekking routes are:
Mediterranean region: Akdaglar, Beydaglari, Bakirdaglari, Geyik mountains and Göksu river area at Hadim-Ermenek, high plateaus of Anamur, mountain ranges of Mut district, area between Tarsus and Bolkar mountains, high plateaus of Adana - Kozan and Kadirli districts, Mentese mountains, Akcali mountains, Tahtali mountains and Binboga mountains.
Aegean region: Bafa lake, Besparmak mountains, Kaz (Ida) mountains and Boz mountains.
Marmara region: Kirklareli and Istranca mountains, Ballikayalar canyon near Gebze in Izmit. Ucmakdere near Tekirdag, Kiyiköy and Igneada.
Black Sea region: Ilgaz and Küre mountains, high plateaus between Trabzon - Uzungöl and Savsat, Kackar mountains.
Plateau hiking is another popular form of trekking. The plateaus of Turkey are unique; meadows with large grasslands, its flora, plenty of water and natural beauty. The Tekir and Burucek meadows on the Toros (Taurus) mountains, Artvin-Kafkasor, Rize-Ayder, Trabzon-Kadirga, Karadag, Erikbeli, Hidirnebi and Giresun-Kumbet, Sinop-Guzfindik and Bozarmut, Ordu-Keyfalan-Cambag are some of the most spectacular areas in the Black Sea region.
Horseback riding
Since ancient times, Turks are always known as "horse people". A heritage from old Turkic States came to our days as Javelin game played especially in Erzurum and Erzincan; wooden javelins are thrown at horsemen of opposing teams to gain points.
Cappadocia is named as the country of horses. You can also try around Daday, Arac, Efiani, Safranbolu, Ulus, Devrek (near Kastamonu and Bartin), Marmaris, Kemer, Cesme, and Karacabey. There are riding clubs in the big cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir.
Bird-watching (Ornithology)
Turkey, the meeting point of three continents, forms a natural bridge between the bird breeding areas in the north and the bird's winter quarters in the south. The area between Izmir and Cesmealti was declared a natural heritage region in 1985, because of its importance as a vital stop for migratory birds. May is the best month for birding. Other important areas include: Buyuk Menderes Delta around Aydin, Lake Seyfe (near Kirsehir), Sultan Marshes (near Kayseri), Manyas Lake (near Bursa) and Goksu Delta (near Silifke).
Wrestling/Oil Wrestling
Wrestling is another national sport in Turkey. The country has many European and World champions. But the most interesting type of wrestling is Oil Wrestling in Kirkpinar, near Edirne. That sport is very traditional as it is practiced since the Ottoman Empire and have a history of more than 400 years.
Turkish sports
Sailing and Boat Trips, Gulet Cruising
Turkey has four bordering seas; the Black Sea, Marmara Sea, Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea, so it not surprising that cruising is a popular sport. There are many cruising charters available. Gulets are traditional motor yachts and gulet holidays are becoming increasingly popular. Best Gulets are build in Marmaris and Bodrum.
Scuba Diving
Mediterranean and Aegean coasts are the best places to dive. It is also possible to dive to shipwrecks from World War I (with special permission of local authorities) in Gallipoli, Canakkale. Diving for purposes of sport, with proper equipment and in non-restricted areas, is permitted. Foreign divers should have official documentation of their qualification, training and must be accompanied, when diving, by a licensed Turkish guide. The limit for diving with diving gear is 30 meters. For educational purposes, this limit is extended to 42 meters. Dives exceeding 30 meters must be done with proper diving and medical equipment. In order to protect Turkish archaeological and cultural treasures, it is strictly forbidden to transport or export Turkish antiquities or natural specimens. Detailed information can be obtained from any Turkish Tourist Information Office.
As an achievement, a young Turkish woman Yasemin Dalkilic broke several world records in Free diving category by diving with an unsupported fixed weight at a depth of 46,05 meters in 1:51 minutes in 2001, with a limited variable weight at a depth of 105 meters in 2:38 minutes in 2001, and with an unlimited variable weight at a depth of 120 meters in 2000.
Rafting & Canoeing
Turkey's rivers provide perfect conditions for canoeing and rafting, for both beginners and experienced, because of their length, depth and water regime. Some of the best rivers for rafting are: Coruh, Barhal, Berta, Firtina, Colak, Koprucay, Manavgat, Dragon, Goksu (Silifke), Zamanti, Goksu (Feke), Kizilirmak and Dalaman Cayi. Especially Coruh river (grade 5 and 4) is rated as one of the Top 10 white water rafting places in the world. 4th World Water sports Championships was held here in 1993 with approximately 300 competitors from 28 countries. Kayaking is also getting popular in some of the rivers.
Windsurfing
The bays around Cesme, Bodrum and Datca peninsulas, as well as Antalya, have ideal wind conditions for windsurfing. Turkey's Aegean shores are among the best windsurfing and kite surfing areas in the Mediterranean. The coastal plain enjoys an exceptionally mild climate, with soft, verdant springs, hot summers, sunny autumns and warm winters marked by occasional showers. For windsurfing and sun-bathing summer months are ideal.
Alacati has a shallow area that extends 500 meters out from the beach. Combined with flat water, no tides or currents, this is a perfect place to improve technique, speed surfing and freestyle. It is an ideal place to learn to water start. The wind in Alacati (in Cesme) is an accelerated Meltemi that is funneled through the hills. A local thermal effect caused by the dry hills heating up increases the strength. It's windy all the time, most reliable in the summer. The wind will blow for a large part of the day, the strongest being in the afternoon. From May to end September the wind is medium to strong (2-6 beaufort) and during the winter strong southerly winds take over from October to March (4-8 beaufort).
In Bodrum - Bitez area the season runs from late May to Early November with the strongest winds being in June through September. During the morning the wind is gentle making it ideal for the rookies, followed by hard winds for the trained surfer in the afternoon. Temperatures are hot all times, except during the night during the first few weeks at the beginning and end of the season. The sea is warm throughout.
Teos is located on the west coast south of Izmir and a great place for beginners and others that need to get techniques like the water start, turns and tricks straightened out. The bay has a shallow area so that you can stand, where's once out of the bay the space is free for speeding or slalom. The most consistent wind is the Meltemi during the summer months, blowing from the north/northwest reaching 5 to 6 beaufort in strength. When you're in the bay and something comes up that you can't make it back to shore, the wind will just make you drift to one side of the bay, so you can just take your rigging and walk along the shoreline back to where you launched. Round noon-ish it tends to die down a little, but picks up again in the afternoon.
Fishing
Fishing can be done without a license in non-prohibited and non-military areas as long as you're an amateur, using amateur and non-commercial equipment, multi-hooked lines, and fishing nets not weighing more than 5 kilograms. Commercial fishing by foreigners might result in heavy penalties. Latest details concerning fishing zones, the minimum sizes of fish that can be caught, and the numbers of fish that can be caught per person, can be obtained from the Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. Especially Aegean and Mediterranean seas are rich fishing areas.
Flying & Ballooning
Plane gliding, hang gliding, parachuting, paragliding and single engine flights are catered for as well as services that provide instruction courses. Best areas are Fethiye, Eskisehir, Pamukkale, Ephesus and Istanbul.
Hot air Balloon rides can be taken daily over Cappadocia near Nevsehir. Each flight is a fantastic experience as you float intimately amongst the fairy chimneys and soar over the magnificent Cappadocian landscape. They usually carry between 6 and 16 passengers and depart very early in the morning to catch the sunrise and gentle winds, lasting for about 1-1.5 hours.
Caving (Spelunking)
The most beautiful and interesting caves are located in the Toros regions along the Mediterranean coast, southeast, northwest Anatolia and Thrace. With an approximate number of 40.000 caves and caverns present, Turkey is like a paradise of caverns and spelunking when compared to other countries. An important geologic - geomorphologic fact in the formation of caverns is karstification (karstic fields) and this karstification is present especially in Western and Central Taurus Mountains (Mugla, Antalya, Isparta, Burdur, Konya, Karaman, Icel and Adana). The longest (Pinarozu Cavern, 16 km west of Beysehir Lake) and the deepest (Cukurpinar Sinkhole, 1880 meters at the south of Anamur) caves of Turkey are present on this mountain belt. The exact number of caves investigated and documented by all local and foreign cave explorers is approximately 800 so far.
Hunting
Please note that hunting can only be done in parties organized by official Turkish travel agencies which have been authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
Geographic structure of Turkey, is appropriate for development of hunt tourism in connection with its plant cover and wild life. Hunting grounds, which will be opened to hunting tourism, with considering the hunting animals potential of the country, are determined and announced by Ministry of Forests (National Parks, Hunting and Wild Life General Directorate). Foreign tourist hunters, can hunt with Hunting Tourism Permission Certificate, issued to A Class Travel Agencies by Ministry of Forest. Also, foreign tourist hunters can only hunt species and breed that set free within private hunting grounds approved by Ministry of Forest, National Parks and Hunt - wild Life General Directorate.
Foreign tourist hunters, who can hunt by means of Travel Agencies, according to the related decision of MAK (Central Hunt Commission) and regulation related with the application of 6136 Numbered Law, can bring their hunting guns and accessories together with them.
Wild animals allowed for hunting in Turkey are determined each year according to their species and hunting periods. These changes are determined by the decisions of the Central Hunting Commission which has been organized each year. Bear, hook horned mountain goat (Samua), wild goat (Bezoar), wild boar, lynx, wolf, jackal, fox, from big hunting animals, are served against its value to usage of national and foreign hunters under hunting tourism title.
Football
Football (Soccer) is Turkey's national sport and is played everywhere. Some of the well known teams are: Fenerbahçe, Galatasaray, Besiktas and Trabzonspor. At this stage Turkish football is at a very important point. Turkish national teams are struggling with the strongest teams in the world and are getting more and more successful results. The U-16 and U-18 National Teams had achieved to be the champions and to get degrees in the European Youth Championships and the Mediterranean Championships.
The A-National Team was qualified for the 17th FIFA World Cup in 2002 in Korea/Japan reaching semifinals and they became the third best team of the world. In this Cup, the goal scored by Hakan Sukur at the 11th second of the match played between the Turkish and the Korean national teams was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as "the earliest goal scored in a world cup match". Lately, during the Euro 2008 Cup, Turkey played in the semifinals again and became one of the "best 4 teams of Europe".
The Galatasaray football team, defeating Arsenal at the UEFA Cup Finals in 1999-2000 season, won the UEFA title as well as the Super Cup when it overcame the "European Champion League" champion Real Madrid.
Golf
In recent years, as golf courses with international standards have opened up, Turkey has become an elite golfing centre where players from around the world can meet in an environment of quality and prestige. Especially the area of Belek, 30km east of Antalya, is a potential for golf tourism with the unique bonus of the cultural, historical and natural sightseeing of the region. Top-class courses are also being planned for Istanbul, Ankara and Mugla. In Turkey, most courses are in the vicinity of tourist resorts, around the coastal regions which have the necessary facilities like accommodation, restaurants and entertainment. The Ministry of Tourism plans to establish other 11 golf courses in these tourist areas.
You can play golf at these facilities: Gloria Golf Resort, Nobilis Golf Hotel, Klassis Golf and Country, Kemer Golf Country Club, National Golf Club, Tat Golf. And many others are on the way.
Skiing
Winter sports resorts in Turkey are generally located in forested mountains. The following ski centers are easily accessible by road or by Turkish Airlines domestic flights: Bursa Uludag, Antalya Saklikent, Bolu Kartalkaya, Erzurum Palandöken, Kars Sarikamis, Kayseri Erciyes, Ankara Elmadag, Ilgaz Dagi, Zigana Gümüshane. For more information on Skiing please Click Here.
Mountaineering
Special permission is needed to climb the Büyük Agri (Ararat) and Cilo-Sat ranges. It is generally advisable to inform the Turkish Mountaineering Club of the region and time of the intended climb. The Club will then inform the relevant authorities. For more information on mountaineering and world famous mountains in Turkey, Click Here please.
Trekking/Backpacking
Trekking or Backpacking mainly takes the form of hill walking; which is a pity, because the country is made for backpacking. Some of the best and popular trekking routes are:
Mediterranean region: Akdaglar, Beydaglari, Bakirdaglari, Geyik mountains and Göksu river area at Hadim-Ermenek, high plateaus of Anamur, mountain ranges of Mut district, area between Tarsus and Bolkar mountains, high plateaus of Adana - Kozan and Kadirli districts, Mentese mountains, Akcali mountains, Tahtali mountains and Binboga mountains.
Aegean region: Bafa lake, Besparmak mountains, Kaz (Ida) mountains and Boz mountains.
Marmara region: Kirklareli and Istranca mountains, Ballikayalar canyon near Gebze in Izmit. Ucmakdere near Tekirdag, Kiyiköy and Igneada.
Black Sea region: Ilgaz and Küre mountains, high plateaus between Trabzon - Uzungöl and Savsat, Kackar mountains.
Plateau hiking is another popular form of trekking. The plateaus of Turkey are unique; meadows with large grasslands, its flora, plenty of water and natural beauty. The Tekir and Burucek meadows on the Toros (Taurus) mountains, Artvin-Kafkasor, Rize-Ayder, Trabzon-Kadirga, Karadag, Erikbeli, Hidirnebi and Giresun-Kumbet, Sinop-Guzfindik and Bozarmut, Ordu-Keyfalan-Cambag are some of the most spectacular areas in the Black Sea region.
Horseback riding
Since ancient times, Turks are always known as "horse people". A heritage from old Turkic States came to our days as Javelin game played especially in Erzurum and Erzincan; wooden javelins are thrown at horsemen of opposing teams to gain points.
Cappadocia is named as the country of horses. You can also try around Daday, Arac, Efiani, Safranbolu, Ulus, Devrek (near Kastamonu and Bartin), Marmaris, Kemer, Cesme, and Karacabey. There are riding clubs in the big cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir.
Bird-watching (Ornithology)
Turkey, the meeting point of three continents, forms a natural bridge between the bird breeding areas in the north and the bird's winter quarters in the south. The area between Izmir and Cesmealti was declared a natural heritage region in 1985, because of its importance as a vital stop for migratory birds. May is the best month for birding. Other important areas include: Buyuk Menderes Delta around Aydin, Lake Seyfe (near Kirsehir), Sultan Marshes (near Kayseri), Manyas Lake (near Bursa) and Goksu Delta (near Silifke).
Wrestling/Oil Wrestling
Wrestling is another national sport in Turkey. The country has many European and World champions. But the most interesting type of wrestling is Oil Wrestling in Kirkpinar, near Edirne. That sport is very traditional as it is practiced since the Ottoman Empire and have a history of more than 400 years.
Skiing in Turkey
Skiing in Turkey
Winter sports resorts in Turkey are generally located in forested mountains of average height. The following ski centers are easily accessible by road or by Turkish Airlines domestic flights.
Bursa - Ulud
ag: This ski center 36 km south of Bursa is accessible along a good asphalt road or by cable-car. The ski area lies between 1800-1900 m and the best season is from December to April. A wide range of accommodation is available in hotels, in family chalets and apres ski facilities. At the resort there are chair-lifts, three ski-lifts, slalom and giant slalom courses, beginner's slopes and a small hospital. Skis, equipment, and instructors are available for hire. Total bed capacity is over 4,000. Antalya - Saklikent: Situated north east of Bakirli dagi the Beydag mountain range, 50 km north west of Antalya, at a height of 2000 m. Accommodation is available in guest house/chalets and there are restaurants, shops and a supermarket. The best season is from January to April. The special attraction of this centre is that in March and April one can ski in the mornings then drive down to the coast and swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean in the afternoons. Bolu - Kartalkaya: This resort situated on the Istanbul - Ankara highway 50 km from Bolu is surrounded by pinewoods, the ski area lying between 1500 and 2200 m. Kartal Hotel 1 and 2 with a total 743 bed capacity have a swimming pool, ski-lift and equipment for hire, and ski instructors are available. Erzurum - Palandöken: This center is 6 km from Erzurum along a good road, lying at an altitude of 2200 to 3100 meters with some of the longest and most difficult courses and best snow conditions in Turkey, making it an ideal location for international ski competitions. Accommodation is available at a 140 bed centrally heated ski lodge with telephone, restaurant, chair-lift and ski instructors and equipment are available for hire. Lately many big hotels are built in the area. Also there are a number of hotels in Erzurum. December to April is the most suitable season. According to the development plans of the Government, Palandöken will soon reach at 87,000 people per hour capacity on its tracks. Erzincan - Bolkar: Situated at 40 kilometers to Erzincan city center, there is a 1100 meters long and 200 meters wide medium-hard track, with a 1200 people per hour capacity teleski and a baby-lift. Best season is between December and April. Mountaineering is also possible here. Kars - Sarikamis: Situated near Kars at 2250 m, this ski center also has good courses and ideal snow conditions, the area is also noted for its hunting. One can stay in the town itself or at the 60 bed capacity centrally heated ski lodge with ski-lift and ski instructors available. Best season is December to April. Agri - Bubi: It is 18 kms to Agri city center but it isn't developed much as a big resort yet. It's season is between December and April and it gets approximately 1-2 meters of snow. There is a 1227 meters long teleski with a capacity of 600 persons per hour. Another skiing area is 4 kms to Eleskirt district with 1650 meters long and 1000 people per hour capacity detachable chair telesiege. Skiing track is 1,200 meters long and 250 meters wide. Kayseri - Erciyes: This ski centre lies at 2150 m on the eastern face of Erciyes Dagi, Tekir Yaylasi (plateau), 25 km from Kayseri. The season is from November to May and there is a 135 bed capacity ski lodge and good courses, a ski-lift and baby-lift, ski instructors and equipment are available. Mountaineering is also possible here. Ankara - Elmadag: This is a lovely place to relax, 23 km out of Ankara, to get fresh air and to dine far away from the chaos and air pollution of the city. There is a 10 room (33 beds) hotel, chalets (130 beds), a pleasantly decorated a-la-carte restaurant, a snack bar/discotheque, and parking. Best season is between January and March. Skiing track is 900 meters long and 250 meters wide, with a 548 meters long teleski having a capacity of 720 people per hour. llgaz Mountain: Situated between Kastamonu and Cankiri at the junction of the Istanbul - Kastamonu, Ankara - Kastamonu roads. In the Ilgaz National Park amidst beautiful woodlands the slopes lie at 1820-2000m. There are picnic facilities, chalets (50 beds) and good hunting in the area. Bingöl - Kurucadag: Situated at Yolcati district of Bingöl, is a small skiing area approximately 25 kms to the city center. The season is between February and March where skiers stay in mountain chalet's. On 1,000 meters long skiing track there is a 925 meters long telesiege with a capacity of 500 people per hour. It's easily reachable by road with buses as well. Zigana - Gumushane: This center is 30 km from Gumushane, and lies at an altitude of 1870 m above a pine forested valley. There is a ski-lift, cafeteria and a restaurant. The season is from December to the end of April.
Turkish Jereed (Javelin)
Turkish Jereed (Javelin)
Jereed (Cirit, Çavgan or Gokboru in Turkish) is a traditional sport of Turks played since centuries form the times of Turkic States. Horses were sacred and indispensable for Turks; they were born, grown up, fight, and die on the horse. They even drank Koumiss (kimiz) made of horses� milk. The Javelin was the main game of Turks during ceremonies and considered to be the oldest of Turkish equestrian sports. It was first introduced to Anatolia in 1071 by the Seljuk ruler Alparslan. Jereed was played as a war game by the Ottomans after 16th century and became the biggest show game of the palace throughout the Ottoman Empire until 19th century. Being a dangerous sport as well, it was banned by the sultan Mahmud II in 1826, but after him was continued to be popular again and spread all over the country. Unfortunately in the last 20-25 years the game is limited only to the Eastern Anatolia, especially played during festivities or weddings in Erzurum, Erzincan, Bayburt, Kars and Sogut. Today apart from Turkey, the Jereed is also played in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan and other Asian countries were people of Turkish origin live.There are two opponent teams in a Jereed game, each formed by 6 or 8 or
12 players, standing on opposite sides of the field marked within a square of from 70 up to 130 meters. There are three "end zones" at each end of the field, each about 6 meters deep, being a team�s waiting area, thus meaning a neutral zone and the opposing team�s throwing area. Each team has its own flag. The horses should be older than four years. A medium height horse is preferred because tall horses are not quick to maneuver, therefore most suitable ones are Arab and Turcoman horses. The Jereed game begins with introductions and handshakes at center field and a parade by each team with its flags. Then a military music of Janissaries and local music with drums and zurna's start. Riders test the field and their horses, than go back to their section. Jereed players in traditional regional costumes, a remembrance of the Sipahis (horseman) of the Janissaries, mount their local breed horses. With their right hand they hold the first jereed (a one meter-long, 2-3 centimeters in diameter, rubber-tipped stick of turned beech wood or poplar tree) that they'll throw while holding other jereeds in their left hand. One rider from one side rushes forth towards the opposite side getting as close as 30-40 meters and shouts the name of a player from the other team, swinging at him one of his sticks, challenging him to enter the game. Than he gallops back to his corner meanwhile the challenged player follows him and throws a jereed at the player who is running away. Another player from the first team comes out and meets the retreating rider. The player from the second team starts riding quickly to his side and takes his former place. This time his rival chases him and throws a jereed at him. The fast-charging chase game goes on like this. There are two 45-minute periods. If a player manages to hit his rival with the stick, or outride him, or catch an incoming Cirit in mid-air than he wins points. Instead he will get negative points for actions that might endanger the horse; such as riding out of bounds or striking a horse intentionally, or falling off from his horse, or throwing the stick from inside the neutral zone, or throwing from closer than 5 meters during pursuit. Referees posted at the center line and at each end of the field award both positive and negative points with their flags. The players make several different defensive maneuvers in order to avoid being hit by their opponents; he leans towards either side of the horse, under the horse�s stomach or even its neck. Some players score more points by hitting his opponent three or four times before that player manages to escape and take his place back in his row. Cirit boys run across the field to retrieve errant throws and deliver them to both sides' "end zones". Even though today jereed tips are rounded rubber and light, sometimes players might be injured if they are hit on the head, eyes or ears. With today's sticks it's very rare but these injuries might even result in a death. If a player dies in the field, he's considered to have lost his life in battle as a martyr and his relatives don�t sue against other player, except that a public case is opened by the court and a legal trial is done anyway. Therefore, if there are any known hostilities amongst players they can be left out of the tournament or put in the same team by the elder people of the village, or by the referees, before the game starts. At the end of the game, the winner is announced by a council of former jereed players depending on points collected by two teams. Organizers give awards to the winning team and big meals are organized.
Turkish oil wrestling
Turkish oil wrestling
This is one of the most popular sports in Turkey. Yagli gures means literally oiled wrestling. The wrestlers wear tight short leather trousers called "Kispet", made of water buffalo leather weighing approximately 13 kilograms, and they cover themselves with olive oil. Matches take place throughout the country but the most famous and most important tournament takes place in Edirne by the end of June and beginning of July. In 2008, the 647th edition will be held between July 4th - 6th. It's a big fair as well with music and celebrations and it goes on until the morning. Usually lamb roast is a very popular food. In the entertainments, belly dancing is accompanied by Turkish traditional musical instruments 'davul' (drum) and 'zurna' (a type of flute) and singings. The history of the oil wrestling tournaments links back to the Persian Era, a period starting from 1065 BC according to Ferdowsi's Shahnameh. The legendary pehlivan (wrestler) of this era is Rostam, constantly saving his country from the evil forces. 
The word "Pehlivan"
Camel wrestling
Camel wrestling
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