Increased visitor interest in Turkey's Ilgaz Mountains
The Ilgaz Mountains offers visitors a chance for fun activities during the long, cold winter months.


The Ilgaz Mountains, one of the prominent ski centers in Turkey, attracts many visitors on weekends. While some of the weekenders ski, others simply get on a ski lift in the center.

One of the highest mountains in the West Black Sea between Kastamonu and Çankırı provinces, Ilgaz Mountains offers the opportunity to ski and snowboard along with the chance to enjoying sledding to its visitors.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA), Ankara University Student Rehabilitation, Social, Sport, Education, Practice Places and Facilities (ÖRSEM) Ilgaz Hotel Manager Ferhat Akkaya said that they have visitors coming from Karabük, Zonguldak, Ankara, Kastamonu, Çankırı, Sinop, Samsun and Istanbul. "Ski lovers flood in there", Akkaya said." Noting they plan to serve also in summer, he added, "Our hotel served [only] in winter before. We are preparing to serve for 12 months this year. We have a sauna, massage parlor and jacuzzi. We want to add a Turkish bathroom and salt room, as well."

"We want people to stay for the summer months, too, and experience the beauty of Ilgaz Mountains," the manager said.

One of the visitors, Erkan Babat also reported that they came from Ankara for the weekend holiday and said, "I have been studying at the university in Kastamonu. When school is out, I often come here to ski and get on a ski lift. Everyone should see this beauty."

Kemal Vurkır stated he came here with his friends for a holiday. Mentioning how much he liked the mountains, Vurkır continued, "Everything is very good. This beauty is worth seeing. I plan to come again."