Natural beauty in Turkey's Bolu entices tourists

Located between Turkey’s capital and Istanbul, the northern province of Bolu awaits its visitors for the winter break with its natural landmarks, thermal facilities and local cuisine.

Bolu, which is famous for its natural beauty as 65 percent of the province is covered with forests, has become a favorite place for both national and international tourists with its thermal, health and winter tourism, and local cuisine.

Kartalkaya, one of Turkey’s most popular ski tourism centers in northwestern region, is also an attractive spot for local and foreign tourists.

Kartalkaya ski resort, with the total area of 70 kilometers (43 miles) and 25 different tracks, lies at Koroglu Mountains in northern Black Sea region of Bolu province.

The resort -- which is located at around 45 kilometers (28 miles) from the city center of Bolu, 186 kilometers (115 miles) from the capital Ankara and 263 kilometers (163 miles) from Istanbul -- is in the summit of Koroglu Mountains, with an elevation of 2,200 meters (7,218 feet).

In addition, tourists can participate in the evening entertainment provided by the hotels.

Holiday-goers who enjoyed skiing during the day can also relax and end their day in a spa as there are 30 thermal springs in the Bolu province’s Seben, Goynuk, Mudurnu, Karacasu and Taskesti districts, and the heat of the spring water is between 20 centigrade (68 Fahrenheit) and 90 centigrade degree (194 F).

The thermal facilities of the city, which has a total capacity of 5,300 beds, serve for those who want to stay or want to spend the day in the spa.

Famous for its natural beauties and its colors in all four seasons, Lake Abant, Yedigoller (Seven Lakes) and Golcuk Nature Park are also tourist attractions in the province.

Guests staying at hotels around Abant can enjoy their holidays by walking around the lake, hiking and picnicking and riding a carriage.

Famous chefs from Mengen also offer different local tastes to holiday-goers.

Different dishes can be found across Bolu which offer an unforgettable taste experience as the region is known for its various food and barbecue.