Top Ski Resorts in Turkey: Why Sarıkamış Should Be Your Next Winter Escape
Yes, you can ski in Turkey!
When you think of Turkey (Türkiye), you probably picture sunny beaches, ancient ruins, or buzzing bazaars. Skiing probably doesn’t make the list, right? Well, it should. Turkey has a surprising winter secret: picturesque ski resorts that make a great alternative to Europe’s crowded and expensive resorts. However, what I love most about skiing in Turkey is the immersive cultural experience.
Is skiing in Turkey good?
You’ve got crisp, powdery snow, cosy mountain lodges, and painterly views – all combined with Turkish hospitality and food that’s so good you’ll still be thinking about it long after you leave. From well-known resorts like Uludağ to lesser-explored like Sarıkamış, Turkey is carving out a name for itself as a top destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The biggest ski resort in Turkey is Erciyes–Kayseri, which has 55 kilometres of slopes, making it the largest ski field.
The mix of adventure and authenticity makes Turkey’s ski scene so unique. After a day on the slopes, you can swap après-ski for après-tea or a steaming cup of salep by the fire. It’s skiing but with a distinctly Turkish twist. And, for me, this makes skiing in Turkey so good.
Everything You Need to Know About Skiing in Turkey
Earlier this year, I had the chance to visit Sarıkamış Ski Resort in eastern Turkey. To say it was idyllic would be an understatement. I stayed at the beautiful Duja Chalet, which felt more like a luxurious mountain retreat than a standard ski lodge. The best part? The slopes were blissfully uncrowded, letting me ski at my own pace without a care in the world.
Getting to Sarıkamış was surprisingly easy. I flew from Dublin to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines—a 4-hour- and 20-minute flight. After a short layover, I took a domestic flight to Kars, which only took another 2 hours. From there, it was just a 30-minute drive through snow-covered landscapes to reach the resort.
As this was a press trip, the Duja Chalet covered my stay, but as always, these opinions are entirely my own. If you’ve read my other posts, you’ll know I always give an honest take – paid trip or not.
Skiing in Turkey – Why Sarıkamış is a Great Resort?
Sarıkamış isn’t your typical ski destination. It’s not flashy or world-famous, and that’s precisely what makes it so good. If you’re looking for a chilled ski or snowboard trip that combines pristine snow, stunning scenery, and a warm, welcoming vibe, this is the place for you.
Sarıkamış Ski Resort Information
Located in Turkey’s Eastern Anatolia Region, Sarıkamış Ski Resort has roughly 21.3 kilometres of slopes across nine runs. The breakdown includes two black, four red, two blue, and one green run.
Easy (Green/Blue): 7.9 km (37%)
Intermediate (Red): 8.2 km (39%)
Difficult (Black): 5.2 km (24%)
The ski area sits at an altitude of 2,130 metres and 2,632 metres, providing a vertical drop of approximately 502 metres.
There are five modern chairlifts and one magic carpet, with a total capacity of almost 9,000 skiers per hour.
The resort’s mostly north-facing slopes preserve its famous crystal powder snow. Thanks to its high elevation and dry climate, Sarıkamış enjoys a long season from mid-December to mid-April.
Ten reasons why Sarıkamış is a great ski resort in Turkey
1. The Snow: Why “Crystal Snow” in Sarıkamış is Perfect for Skiing and Snowboarding
The snow in Sarıkamış is often called “crystal snow,” which reflects its unique texture and exceptional quality. This type of snow is light, dry, and powdery, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of all levels.
Crystal snow forms due to the climate of Sarıkamış. Here, cold temperatures and low humidity levels create dry and powdery snowflakes. This powdery texture means the snow doesn’t compact into heavy, wet clumps like it does in many other ski resorts.
- Why it’s Great for Skiing: Dry snow provides better glide and control, whether navigating groomed runs, hitting fresh powder, or trying out off-piste areas.
- Effortless Turns: Powder snow cushions your movements, allowing smoother, more fluid transitions as you ski or snowboard.
Despite its powdery nature, crystal snow offers excellent grip on the slopes. It creates an even surface with fewer icy patches, which can be tricky to navigate in wetter conditions.
- Enhanced Confidence for Beginners: The forgiving texture of the snow makes it easier to control your movements, reducing the risk of falls.
- Improved Performance for Experts: Advanced skiers can enjoy the precision and responsiveness needed for high-speed runs or carving tight turns.
Sarıkamış benefits from stable cold temperatures that preserve the snow’s dry and powdery state throughout the day. Unlike wetter snow, which can become slushy or icy as the temperature fluctuates, crystal snow maintains its integrity, ensuring consistent conditions from your first run to your last.
- Reduced Fatigue: Skiing on light powder requires less effort than heavy, wet snow, so you can enjoy longer sessions without exhausting your legs.
2. The Weather: Calm, Comfortable, and Consistent
One of the standout features of skiing in Sarıkamış is its exceptional weather conditions. Unlike many ski resorts where icy winds can leave you shivering on the slopes, Sarıkamış offers a much more pleasant experience. The slopes are protected the Kötek Forest, where towering pine trees provide natural shelter from the elements.
Thanks to the forest’s cocooning canopy, the slopes are shielded from the biting winds that often plague other ski resorts. You’ll feel comfortably warm even on the coldest days, with zero wind chill affecting your time on the mountain.
- Why It’s a Game-Changer: You can enjoy uninterrupted runs without the discomfort of freezing winds blasting your face. These pleasant conditions make Sarıkamış particularly appealing for families with children or anyone who prefers a more comfortable skiing experience.
Because the pistes are so well-sheltered, the lifts and runs in Sarıkamış rarely shut down due to weather. High winds often force closures in other resorts, cutting into your precious ski time. Here, the forest acts as a natural windbreak, ensuring the slopes remain accessible no matter the conditions.
- Consistent Access: You can confidently plan your day, knowing you’ll have full access to the slopes. This reliability is a huge advantage for travellers, as it guarantees you’ll get the most out of your trip.
3. Scenery That Takes Your Breath Away
Have you ever skied through a forest blanketed in snow? That’s what you can experience in Sarıkamış, thanks to the Kötek Forest. Towering pine trees line the runs, creating a winter wonderland that feels like something out of a movie. On clear days, the views from the mountain are unbeatable. Snow-capped peaks stretch as far as the eye can see, and the untouched beauty of the landscape is everywhere. Even if you’re not skiing, the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.
4. Turkish Hospitality
If one thing sets skiing in Turkey apart, it’s the people. From the moment I arrived, I felt entirely at home. The team at the Duja Chalet went above and beyond to make my stay comfortable, and every interaction – whether at the ski rental shop or the local cafés – was met with genuine warmth and friendliness. And let’s not forget the food.
Turkish cuisine is always a highlight of any trip, and Sarıkamış didn’t disappoint. From fresh bread and flavourful stews to sticky desserts like baklava, every meal was an event. Trust me, you won’t go hungry here.
One thing to note is that though there are gorgeous mountainside restaurants and cafes, they do not sell alcohol. All the hotels sell alcohol, and these are all located on the mountain. However, you can bring your own alcohol onto the slopes. Many locals on the chair lifts offered me a swig from their cans and bottles.
However, I will say that one of the things I enjoyed most about skiing in Sarıkamış is the fact there were zero drunk people on the slopes. Now, don’t get me wrong. I love a Jagerbomb or hot wine as much as the next person when I am up the mountain, but I do get very anxious around drunk people – especially drunk people on skis and snowboards. So, to have this anxiety removed was such a relief. I really was able to relax a lot more on the slopes. I then enjoyed Turkish tea and coffee on the mountain and warmed up with mulled wine and local liquor when I returned to the hotel for lunch, dinner and apres-ski.
5. A Ski Trip with a Cultural Twist
Sarıkamış isn’t just about skiing; it’s a whole cultural experience. After hitting the slopes, I treated myself to a hammam, a traditional Turkish bath, which was the perfect way to unwind. Evenings were spent sipping salep, a warm, spiced drink that feels like a hug in a mug while listening to live Turkish music and being wowed by local dancers. These little cultural touches add so much character to the trip. You’re not just skiing – you’re immersing yourself in a rich culture.
6. Affordable Skiing in Turkey
One of the biggest surprises about Sarıkamış? How affordable it is. Compared to most resorts in Europe, this place offers incredible value. Lift passes, ski rentals, and dining all come at a fraction of the cost, and you don’t have to compromise on quality. A day pass for the whole resort is just €16. However, if you stay in the Duja Chalet for three nights or more, you get free ski passes for each day of your stay.
7. Easy to Get To and Get Around
Despite its remote feel, Sarıkamış is surprisingly accessible. The journey is smooth and stress-free, with direct flights to Istanbul and quick domestic connections to Kars. Once you arrive, everything from the slopes to the restaurants is just a short walk away. All the properties on the resort are fully ski-in ski-out accommodations. You do not have to get a shuttle to the slopes. Heck, you don’t even have to walk to the slopes. You just put on your skis or snowboard and glide right down to the ski lift.
8. Who Will Love Skiing in Sarıkamış?
For Beginners
Sarıkamış is a dream come true for beginners, thanks to its gentle, forgiving slopes and supportive atmosphere. The resort features wide, well-maintained pistes that provide plenty of space to practice without the pressure of overcrowded runs. The crystal snow adds to the appeal, offering excellent grip and a softer landing for those inevitable first-time tumbles.
- Why It’s Ideal: The resort’s ski schools are staffed by experienced instructors who are patient and encouraging, helping you build confidence and skills at your own pace. The uncrowded environment also means fewer distractions, letting you focus on your progress while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
For Couples
Sarıkamış is perfect for couples seeking a romantic winter escape. The cosy atmosphere, luxurious accommodations like the Duja Chalet, and tranquil slopes create an intimate setting for shared experiences. Imagine skiing together through snow-covered pine forests, enjoying a quiet moment on the lifts, or sipping salep by a roaring fire after a day on the mountain.
- Why It’s Romantic: The peaceful setting allows you to connect without the chaos of busier resorts. The cultural touches, such as indulging in a traditional hammam or savouring delicious Turkish cuisine, make the experience even more memorable.
For Families
Families will find Sarıkamış a stress-free and enjoyable destination for all ages. The calm, family-friendly atmosphere means parents can relax while children learn to ski or play in the snow. With wide-open slopes, gentle terrain, and reliable weather, planning a day that keeps everyone happy is easy. Oh, and the kids’ club in Duja Chalet is open until 10.30 pm!
- Why It’s Family-Friendly: The compact resort layout makes it easy to move between accommodations, lifts, and restaurants without hassle. Many chalets, like the Duja Chalet, offer family-friendly amenities, ensuring comfort for parents and kids. And let’s not forget the food – I always come back to the food – children will love the fresh bread and comforting favourites like chicken and chips, while adults can enjoy hearty Turkish dishes. But I am sure the kids will love Turkish cuisine too.
For Neurodivergent Travellers
Sarıkamış particularly appeals to neurodivergent travellers, offering a calm and predictable environment that reduces stress and sensory overload. The uncrowded slopes and sheltered setting create a sense of tranquillity, while the resort’s layout minimises logistical challenges.
Why It’s Welcoming: The resort’s smaller size and quieter atmosphere allow for a more controlled experience, free from the overstimulation often found in busier resorts. Staff members are warm, accommodating, and willing to assist with special requests, ensuring a stress-free environment.
9. Who Might Skip Sarıkamış?
Adrenaline junkies looking for extreme terrain or party-goers chasing wild après-ski scenes might find Sarıkamış too mellow. This might not be your vibe if you’re all about high-energy nightlife. But if you’re after a serene winter escape, you’ll fall in love with it here.
10. Skiing in Turkey Focuses on Sustainability
One of the most rewarding aspects of skiing in Sarıkamış is the resort’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. The surrounding Kötek Forest and pristine mountain environment are central to the area’s charm, and sustainability is clearly emphasised. Ski runs are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, and the limited crowds mean less strain on the environment than heavily trafficked European resorts.
Local businesses also play a role in keeping the region eco-friendly. Many of the accommodations, like the Duja Chalet, incorporate locally sourced materials and energy-efficient practices, and there is massive support for the local farmers and artisans in the region. For travellers looking to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying a chilled-out skiing experience, Sarıkamış is a somewhat guilt-free getaway.
So, do you think skiing in Sarıkamış is for you? As you can tell, I loved it. But if you have any questions, please get in touch with me, and I’ll do my best to answer.
If you are hungry for more blog posts on travel, here you go…
Firstly, if you are heading to the slopes, check out my guide to learning to ski on an artificial ski slope.
Want to find out more about how I got into skiing and why I swapped from snowboarding? Sure you do! Read that story here.
And do not book that ski trip until you’ve read all about why you need travel insurance, especially when you hit the slopes.
If you want to swap skis for wheels, here’s my road trip guide from Barcelona to Girona.
Flying out of Dublin airport? You’ll want to read the following: Dublin airport travel tips for arrivals and departures and Dublin airport travel advice – know before you fly.
Want to book cheaper flights? Here’s my guide to the best websites for booking flights – the ones travel writers use.
Winter holidays not your vibe? Here is a great summer option: ten reasons to attend the Neversea Festival in Romania. And if you need more inspiration, here’s my guide to music festivals in cool cities: sights & sounds.
If you are visiting Ireland, look at my many blog posts, for example, things to do in Ireland.
For some pre-trip research, click here to learn about the traditional Irish foods we use to celebrate St Patrick’s Day.
Click here if you want to learn about Christmas dinner in Ireland.
Finally, click here to learn about Easter in Ireland: Traditions, food, and festivities.
As somebody who travels alot, and quite often with my skis, i would never have tought that Turkey would have options for affordable Skiing. I guess you learn as long as you live. Of course not the terrain for me, but i love finding out about new places/resorts to ski. Planned a winter ski trip to Georgia in 2026. Super excited!