Sarıkamış Ski Resort is a hidden gem in the eastern part of Turkey. The ski resort is situated in the Sarıkamış district of Kars Province and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The resort has over 12 km of ski slopes suitable for all levels, making it a great destination for both beginner and advanced skiers.
Slopes, Trails, and Lifts
The ski resort has over 12 ski runs, ranging from beginner to advanced. The slopes are well-groomed, and the lifts are modern and efficient. Sarıkamış Ski Resort has a total of 7 lifts, including 1 gondola, 2 chairlifts, and 4 drag lifts. The resort offers night skiing on certain days of the week, which adds an extra thrill to your skiing experience.
Working Hours
The resort operates daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Night skiing is available on Saturdays from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm.
Prices
The prices for ski passes and equipment rentals vary depending on the season. A daily ski pass for adults costs around 120 Turkish Liras, and equipment rental starts at around 50 Turkish Liras per day. Children under the age of 6 can ski for free.
Skiing for Kids
Sarıkamış Ski Resort has a dedicated ski school for children, where experienced instructors teach children how to ski in a safe and fun environment. The cost of ski lessons for children starts at around 150 Turkish Liras per day.
Infrastructure
The ski resort has basic infrastructure, including ski lifts, rental shops, restaurants, cafes, and a medical center. The facilities are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Entertainment for Non-Skiers
If you're not into skiing or want to take a break from skiing, Sarıkamış Ski Resort has plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. You can go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or take a scenic gondola ride.
Cafes and Restaurants
There are several cafes and restaurants on the territory of the ski resort, offering a range of food and drink options. The prices are reasonable, with an average cost of around 30-40 Turkish Liras for a meal and 10-20 Turkish Liras for a drink.
Accommodation
Sarıkamış Ski Resort has several accommodation options, including hotels and chalets. The average cost of accommodation starts at around 200 Turkish Liras per night.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sarıkamış Ski Resort is from mid-December to early March when the snow conditions are ideal for skiing. The ski resort receives an average of 2 meters of snow each year, ensuring that the slopes are always covered in snow.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to Sarıkamış Ski Resort is by renting a car.
Parking Tips
The ski resort has several parking lots available, but they can get crowded during peak season. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially on weekends.
Additional Tips for Drivers
The roads leading to Sarıkamış Ski Resort can be challenging, especially during winter. It's important to have snow chains for your car and to drive slowly and cautiously. Make sure to check the weather conditions before driving and to have a full tank of gas before leaving for the resort.
In conclusion, Sarıkamış Ski Resort is a hidden gem in Turkey that offers a unique skiing experience for skiers of all levels. With well-groomed slopes, modern lifts, and affordable prices, it's an excellent choice for those who want to ski in a less crowded and underrated destination. Renting a car is the best way to get there and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.
