Explore the most breathtaking mountain ascents in Turkey, divided by geographic regions
Discovering Turkey's Hidden Climbing Gems: Exploring the Central Anatolia Region
Turkey, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, is also a hidden treasure trove for rock climbers. While the Mediterranean coast and western Turkey are often associated with the country's best climbing spots, the Central Anatolia Region offers a diverse range of sport climbing routes that cater to different skill levels.
One such location is Ballıkayalar, situated near Gebze and geographically close to Central Anatolia. This area, along with Pelitözü - Gölpazarı, is among the 11 top equipped climbing areas across Turkey, serving as alternatives to Antalya for sport climbing[1]. These established climbing sites offer well-bolted, quality climbs on limestone with a variety of route difficulties. Some popular routes include "Carlson vom Dach" (4), "Ya Sabır" (6a+), "Karınca" (7a), "Monkey Business" (8a), and "Charivari" (8c)[1].
Beyond Ballıkayalar and Pelitözü - Gölpazarı, the Central Anatolia Region hosts other notable climbing zones. For instance, the Cappadocia area, renowned for its unique geological formations and cultural heritage, offers hiking, trekking, and ballooning opportunities, though technical rock climbing is less common[2].
Olympos in Antalya, on the other hand, combines coastal views, forest trails, and archaeological remains with over 400 routes available for climbers. Nearby, Uludag in Bursa reaches 2,543 meters and is a year-round destination for hikers, climbers, and skiers. Local climbers flock to Narlidere for its limestone walls with caves and ledges.
The Central Anatolian Plateau supports rugged volcanic peaks and granite outcrops, with Karakaya featuring 20 to 25-meter granite cliffs. Mount Ararat, the highest elevation in Turkey at 5,137 meters, and Suphan Mountain, reaching 4,058 meters, are other notable peaks in the region.
Ice climbing enthusiasts can head to Uzundere between January and March to experience frozen waterfalls. Hasan Mountain, located in Aksaray, and the Kackar Mountains, which rise above the Black Sea coast, offer year-round alpine activity. Artos Mountain provides stunning views of Akdamar Island, while Bafa Lake caters to boulder climbers and beginners.
The Kackar range's highest summit reaches 3,937 meters, and Tendurek Mountain, located in Van, includes two volcanic peaks. Medetsiz (Bolkar) in Mersin-Konya-Nigde is a climbing area yet to be fully explored and developed. Geyve in Sakarya boasts over 100 routes, with some cliffs over 20 meters high. Lastly, Golpazari in Bilecik offers over 200 routes on limestone surfaces, attracting dedicated climbers.
Turkey's climbing regions, each with unique terrains and challenges, make it an exciting destination for climbers seeking new adventures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, Turkey's Central Anatolia Region offers a wealth of opportunities to explore and climb.
[1] Source [2] Source
- Even though Istanbul is famous for its historical and cultural attractions, the Central Anatolia Region in Turkiye is also a renowned hidden gem for rock climbers, with some areas offering well-bolted, quality climbs on limestone.
- While Russia may be known for its cold climate, the Central Anatolia Region offers a diverse range of sport climbing routes that cater to different skill levels, attracting travelers and climbers from all over the world.
- The Central Anatolia Region's economy benefits from the growth of rock climbing tourism, with its lifestyle revolving around the outdoors and adventure sports, making it a unique destination for tourists seeking more than just historical landmarks.
- After a day of exploring the Central Anatolia Region's rich rock climbing opportunities, one can enjoy the stunning views of famous sports landscapes like Bafa Lake or the unique formations in Cappadocia, making Turkey a great destination for both climbing and travel.
