Holiday in Palandoken

Palandöken is a young and promising ski resort.

For tourists who are passionate about skiing and winter holidays, the Turkish resort of Palandöken will be a real discovery. It is one of Turkey’s ski resorts, gaining increasing popularity among fans of active recreation and adrenaline.

Location: Eastern Turkey, near the Armenian border, on Mount Palandöken (2,450 m above sea level), 4 km from the center of Erzurum. The distance to Erzurum Airport is 15 km (about a 20-minute drive).

Palandöken ski runs

Ski trips to this destination are chosen by an increasing number of travelers. Palandöken is suitable for both beginner skiers and professional athletes: the ski map is designed for different levels of experience. The snow cover is at least 1.5 m thick, and in some areas it reaches up to 3 m.

Holiday in Palandöken photo-1
  • The total length of the ski area reaches 40 km.
  • Number of runs: blue — 7, red — 8, black — 2.
  • The longest run is 11 km.
  • Skiing zone — 2,220–3,176 m.
  • Vertical drop — 976 m.

Blue runs are short and intended for warming up and acclimatization. Both beginners and professionals use them before moving on to more difficult descents. Red runs are suitable for experienced skiers, and one of them starts from the summit. Black runs are popular among advanced skiing enthusiasts.

A trip to Palandöken is also a chance to explore interesting places in Erzurum, the main city of Eastern Anatolia and a cultural center with many historical landmarks. Visitors can see ancient mosques, fortresses, and tombs. Prices for excursions are generally affordable, and the stories about Erzurum’s attractions are memorable.