How to Get to Kartalkaya: A Guide to Coach, Car and Winter Roads

The most practical way from Istanbul to Kartalkaya is by road: take the motorway to Bolu, then the mountain road that climbs up to the ski resort. As no airport is involved, you can set off in the morning on an organised coach tour and be on the slopes that same afternoon. If you are driving your own car, winter tyres and snow chains are essential for the last part of the road.

Where is Kartalkaya?

Kartalkaya is a ski resort in the Köroğlu Mountains, south of the city of Bolu. Being close to the main route between Istanbul and Ankara makes it easy to reach for skiers coming from the Marmara region. The resort consists of hotels built in the forest, away from any town; so there is no 'heading into town for an evening stroll', and the holiday is spent mostly between the hotel and the slopes. That is why, when planning transport, it is important to think from the outset about when you will arrive at the hotel and when you will leave on the way back.

Option 1: Organised coach tour

The easiest way to get to Kartalkaya is to join a programme that includes transport. The Bolu Kartalkaya Ski Tour starts in the morning by coach from departure points in Istanbul, with a break on the way, and arrives in Kartalkaya. On the return, the coach sets off after skiing until the afternoon on the third day; if conditions allow, there is a stop at Gölcük Nature Park.

Practical benefits of going by coach:

• Winter driving is not your problem. You don't have to deal with fitting chains on a snowy, icy mountain road or trying not to slide on the hills.
• Coming back tired is fine. Getting behind the wheel after a day of skiing is exhausting; on the coach you rest on the way home.
• Luggage and equipment are easy to carry. If you are bringing your own skis or boots, there is room in the luggage hold.
• One plan for the whole group. For school, company or friends' groups, everyone travelling at the same time in the same vehicle makes organisation easier.

Option 2: By your own car

For those who want to drive, the route is generally as follows: from Istanbul take the Anatolian Motorway towards Bolu, and after the Bolu exit turn onto the mountain road that climbs to the ski resort. The motorway section is usually trouble-free; the part that really needs care is the mountain road that begins after Bolu and becomes snow-covered as it climbs.

Preparing for winter driving

• Winter tyres make a difference on snow and ice; don't take this road on summer tyres.
• Carry snow chains and practise fitting them once before you go. Trying to fit chains for the first time on a snowy road in the cold is harder than you think.
• Keep your fuel tank full. Fuel stops on the mountain road are limited, and you also need fuel to keep warm if you are stuck in traffic.
• Carry a blanket, water and snacks and be prepared in case the road closes or traffic slows down.
• Travel in daylight. In the dark the risk of ice increases and visibility drops.

In the car park

At the ski resort, your car will stand in the cold for days. Have the antifreeze level checked and find out in advance what to do in case the handbrake freezes in very cold weather; some drivers prefer to leave the car in gear instead.

Breaks and food on the way

The road from Istanbul to Bolu has long been known for its roadside restaurants and service stations. The Bolu area is famous for its cooks; chefs from Mengen hold a special place in Turkish cuisine. A break for soup or a hot meal on the way does you good before you head up the mountain road. For the flavours of the Bolu area and the stop at Gölcük, read our article Bolu flavours and Gölcük.

Keeping track of weather and road conditions

In winter, the Bolu Mountain pass and the road up to the ski resort can slow down or temporarily become difficult in heavy snowfall. Before you set off:

• Check the current weather forecast and road conditions.
• Keep an eye on the resort's piste and snow conditions. The amount of snow varies each year.
• If you are on an organised tour, be aware that the times in the programme may shift with road conditions.

Snow chains, skis and luggage: what to take?

If you don't have ski equipment, don't worry; skis, snowboards, boots, poles and helmets can be rented in Kartalkaya. Rental equipment is usually not included in the tour. If you are taking your own equipment, a ski bag protects both your skis and your other luggage. For personal clothing, a waterproof jacket and trousers, gloves, thermal base layers, a beanie and sunglasses are essentials.

Which should you choose?

If you are going with a large group, with children or with someone inexperienced at winter driving, an organised coach tour is a much more comfortable option. Drivers experienced in winter conditions who want flexible times may prefer their own car. Either way, planning to set off early in the morning lets you make the most of the daylight on the slopes. To see other winter routes, take a look at our ski holidays page.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take from Istanbul to Kartalkaya?

The time depends on traffic, weather and road conditions. On the organised tour, the coach leaves in the morning and is planned to arrive around midday, including a break. On snowy days the journey on the mountain road can take longer.

Can you get to Kartalkaya by public transport?

It is easy to reach Bolu by intercity bus, but regular public transport from Bolu to the ski resort is not always available. That is why an organised tour or a pre-arranged transfer is more practical.

Do you need snow chains on the road to Kartalkaya?

On snowy days, chains may be needed on the last part of the mountain road. If you are driving your own car, carry chains with you and set off on winter tyres.

Do you stop at Gölcük on the way back?

On our tour, there is a stop at Gölcük Nature Park on the way back if weather and road conditions allow. If conditions do not permit, the coach returns directly to Istanbul.