by Betül Çal
Oluşturulma Tarihi: Şubat 05, 2009 00:00
ANTALYA - Saklıkent Ski Resort in the southern city of Antalya is nominated to be one of the most popular ski resorts of Turkey. Having an altitude of 2,547 meters, the Saklıkent region appeals both to the outdoor sport-lovers and to the visitors who would like to see a shiny blanket of snow under the bright sun on a daily basis.
Close to city, sand, sea and sun, Saklıkent Ski Resort in Antalya promises a just as unforgettable escape as a trip to the beach.
Having the advantage of such proximity to the city center, just an hour from Antalya, Saklıkent Ski Resort offers skiing fun from December through to mid-April.
While enjoying the fabulous Beydağları runs, skiers have a splendid view of the western Taurus Mountains, the Mediterranean Sea and the southern city of Antalya. And the Beydağları welcomes its guests, skiers and mountaineers, with fair weather almost 300 days a year.
"I am a complete ski-lover. Although I live in Istanbul, I prefer Saklıkent to many other ski resorts. I practice here and have a great time," said Burak Aydan, a lawyer and professional skier.
"Here I am just 45 to 50 kilometers from the city. I do not feel stuck in the mountains. I can strip off this ski-suit, go to one of the pubs in the city and have fun whenever I like. The best side of all this is that I do not have to pay huge amounts of money for a two-day escape," Aydan said.
With two main ski-runs, Saklıkent Ski Resort caters to both amateurs and professional skiers. Saklıkent ski-run was designed for beginners and intermediates. At 1,700 meters long and 1,950 meters high, the run has an 800 person capacity.
Taking side routes down ski runs
Extending to the peak of the Bakırlı Mountain, the Nadir Gez ski-run has a capacity of 60 people and is preferred by more advanced skiers. It is 900 meters long and 2,300 meters high.
"I mostly prefer to take side routes down the ski runs. That allows me to ski almost 3,400 meters on the way down and see the magnificent views of the Taurus Mountains," said Mustafa Halit Gencer, a skier from İzmir.
"Having dazzling powdered snow, Saklıkent is also favorable for snowboarders," he said.
’Saklıkent, home to adventurers of all ages’
Home to 477 detached houses, Saklıkent looks like a small town. There are guest houses, small motels and restaurants that can meet guests’ needs without needing to go far. It is difficult to get a room in the small but charming lodges during winter since tourists prefer them to the more expensive city hotels.
"I am here with my family to make the most of the white snow and the Mediterranean sun. Saklıkent is great for Antalya residents, who rarely experience the joy of snow in the city," said Fatih Karabayır, a local businessman.
"Antalya offers much more than expected from a holiday destination. From the relaxing water of the Mediterranean Sea to the surrounding mountains where you can ski five to six months a year," said Ayşe Karabayır,
"Saklıkent is home to adventurers of all ages who want to escape from urban confusion. It’s perfect for young lovers, who want to get away from the city, and it’s a family place where children can spend the day with nature," she also said.