In our country, Kartepe is one of the most sought-after destinations in terms of winter tourism. It is preferred by people living in the Marmara region especially during the weekend holidays due to being connected to Kocaeli.
There are about half an hour's distance from the city center. In addition to its advantageous location, it is also home to many winter sports, especially skiing, with advanced facilities.
Places to visit in Kartepe
Kartepe, which dates back to the Byzantine period, took place with the merger of various villages and reached the position of the district. The fact that it is located on the Silk Road route increases its historical value. Today, it is a district serving the tourism sector of our country as a seasonal. Especially during the winter holiday periods, visitors are flocked by local and foreign tourists. It is suitable for many nature sports with its green nature, high mountains covered with white and clean air.
Kartepe Ski Resort
The most important element that makes Kartepe a tourist destination is this ski resort. It is among the most important ski centers in Turkey. Due to its importance, it welcomes local tourists from all over the country and opens its doors to foreign tourists from various countries. The visit to this ski resort is much easier with the maintenance done by the municipality. The fact that the roads are permanently salted out is evidence of the importance given to the ski center. The ski center is divided into several runways. Depending on the level of the skiers, the runway will be determined and the race will be preferred to the most appropriate level. This situation is important both for safety and for the pleasure of the person. On the runways, you can reach the summit using the chairlift and chairlift mechanisms. The feature that separates the two is that they are sitting or standing.
Thököly İmre Monument
This monument is one of the historical values of Kartepe region. Although it dates back to the 18th century, it was built for the Tökeli İmre which came to the Ottoman Empire as an asylum seeker. Kartepe hosted the tomb of Tökeli İmre, which was equivalent to 1906, but was later taken to his country. Although the tomb was taken away, the monument was preserved, and it was opened to visitors due to its historical value and spiritual meaning. The mentioned Thököly İmre Monument is located in Seka Park. Especially when passing through this region, it should be visited by a short time and its historical texture should be felt.
Maşukiye
Kartepe is about twenty minutes away. Those who come to Kartepe as a day trip or accommodation usually include Maşukiye in their sightseeing plans. It has an enormous beauty with the advantage of being on the shores of Lake Sapanca. Ideal for those who want to get away from the city noise. The calm structure, the appearance of the green, picnic and hiking activities such as being eligible for compliance.
There are also many restaurants that are diversified according to needs and taste. It can be said that these restaurants are mostly for meat and fish. Although there are many rumors about his historical past, his real beauty is taken from his natural wealth. It offers its guests a peaceful atmosphere with its air, plants and water resources.
What to eat in Kartepe?
The location of Kartepe as a central location positively influenced its cuisine. Blended from various parts of the country, it has gained a wealth of food. In this respect, both domestic and foreign tourists have no difficulty in finding the taste suitable for their taste. Meals like fish, meat and vegetables are served in Kartepe restaurants. In addition to the delicacies served in the restaurants, people can also make a barbecue by using the natural environment. Especially in cold winter days, food like sausage bread, meatball bread is indispensable for families.
Alabalık: It is the most basic food in the menu of fish restaurants. Since it is very delicious in Kartepe, it is appreciated and frequently preferred. Fish lovers should try trout in Kartepe.
Kiremitte Meatball: It can be considered as one of the most delicious meatballs. Kartepe'ta must be tried is one of the most important flavors. It was the center of attention thanks to its unique, tile-colored bowl and cheese-enriched appearance. Especially ideal for those who like spicy food. Onions and garlic are also included.
Ayva Dessert: Those who have not tried quince dessert before, can prefer Kartepe to perform this first. Quince dessert is sold in many places, such as pastry shops or desserts. Bread is used in making this dessert prepared using sherbet. Due to its seasonal structure and heater feature, it is consumed especially in winter. Although the recipe is more detailed, cinnamon and cloves are also included in the ingredients.
Ovma Soup: It is one of the local dishes of Kocaeli. It is a soup sought in winter with its hot and delicious structure. Materials such as flour, butter, milk and yogurt are used. There is a practical recipe that can be prepared in a short time. You can either do it yourself by looking at the detailed description or you can order this soup by going to any Kartepe restaurant. When a light soup break is desired, Scrub Soup will be a unique option.
Gebze Mantısı: The specialty of Gebze ravioli, which is a specialty of Kocaeli, is that it is prepared using chicken rice. These ravioli cut into a square, when it is ready, has a unique flavor. This local flavor can be tried at many points of Kartepe. The way of closure is greater than the usual. It has a view similar to the bundle. It can be found especially on the menu of restaurant-style places.
Kartepe Weather
Kartepe is under the influence of both Mediterranean and Black Sea climate. Therefore, it can be said that many air types are seen at different times. Summers are warm but winters are rainy and not too harsh. Due to its location in the middle of the Marmara and Western Black Sea regions, various climate passages can be experienced. Since it is generally preferred for winter holiday, it will be more convenient and efficient to visit such as November, December, January and February.
Nightlife in Kartepe
As in every region where winter tourism is taking place, Kartepe has a seasonal nightlife. Various music events, activities and competitions are organized during the winter months when the tourists are concentrated. These entertainments sometimes last until morning. Entertainment is usually organized by hotels. Apart from this, various artists come to concerts and ski parties are organized. In the summer months, mobility decreases and nightlife becomes calm. The peak season of the winter season is January and February, which correspond to the half-year holiday.
Kartepe Daily Spending
The daily expenditure to be made in Kartepe varies according to season. In winter, especially accommodation prices increase. If you are considering a variety of activities including accommodation and food money, you can spend between 60-70$ per day.
Considerations in Kartepe
Since Kartepe is also used as a ski resort, attention should be paid to the points of interest. The importance of this situation should be grasped, always act with caution.
- When skiing, the person should prefer the runway which is best suited to his knowledge and his skiing experience.
- Ensure that the ski equipment is of good quality and safe.
- Especially if you are going to have a Kartepe holiday with a stay for winter holiday, you must make a reservation in advance.
- Extra efforts should be made to leave the natural areas used clean.