Visiting Türkiye This Winter? Here's All You Need To Know About The Winter Events Happening There

Türkiye is a land of many great delights for travellers. The country has emerged as a favoured winter destination for travellers seeking a blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities. From the snow-covered peaks of the Anatolian Plateau to the iconic slopes of its world-renowned ski resorts, Türkiye offers something for every winter enthusiast.

Erzurum, in particular, is one of the country's prime ski destinations, and it is set to host an unforgettable winter season with its recognition as both the ECO Tourism Capital and the first European Capital of Winter Sports, awarded by ACES (European Capitals and Cities of Sports Federation). This stunning eastern province, known for its uninterrupted skiing opportunities at the world-class Palandöken Ski Resort, is gearing up for an action-packed calendar of events, including international competitions and lively cultural celebrations.

An Action-Packed Winter Lineup

For thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts, Erzurum is the place to be this winter. At Palandöken Ski Resort, some of the most exciting winter sports events will unfold. First up, the Winter Games (January 6-12) will bring the competitive spirit to the slopes, with 350 athletes from ECO member countries competing in 11 disciplines, including skiing and snowboarding. This is the first-ever ECO event at Palandöken, and visitors can enjoy the competition live.

Next, the World Snowboard Cup (SBX) returns to Palandöken from March 1-3 after a successful debut in 2018. This event, hosted by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS), promises three adrenaline-filled days with athletes pushing the limits of speed and skill. For those who can't make it to the resort, the event will be broadcast on national and international channels.

Thrills Beyond Skiing

The excitement doesn't stop with skiing and snowboarding. Palandöken's winter events lineup also includes the Ice Climbing Türkiye Championship (February 7-10), held on the first and only artificial ice park in Türkiye. The park features a 20-25 meter ice wall, providing a thrilling challenge for competitive ice climbers.

For snow sports enthusiasts, the Snow Volleyball World Tour will make a stop at Palandöken from March 13-16, where athletes will compete in thrilling matches on snow-covered courts. Additionally, the Snow Downhill Race will bring mountain bikers to the resort as they race down snow-clad ski trails in a dramatic mass competition.

Discover Erzurum: A Blend of Nature, Culture, and Adventure

After hitting the slopes, take time to explore Erzurum, one of the oldest cities in Anatolia. Surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes such as Tortum Waterfall, the Fairy Chimneys of Narman, and the serene Seven Lakes of İspir, Erzurum is a haven for nature lovers. The city also boasts stunning historical landmarks, including the Ulu Mosque, Double Minaret Madrasa, and Üç Kümbetler (Three Tombs), showcasing its rich heritage as a former Silk Road city.

For a true taste of Erzurum, be sure to indulge in local delicacies like cağ kebabı—marinated and skewered lamb—and kadayıf dolma, a delicious dessert. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring its rich history, Erzurum offers an unforgettable winter escape that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty.