Yalova

Marmara, Turkey 11 tours visit here

Yalova is a small coastal city in Turkey's Marmara region, on the southern shore of the Gulf of Izmit where it opens into the Sea of Marmara. Fast ferries from Istanbul cross in around an hour, making it an easy overnight or day trip. Behind the seafront promenade the wooded Samanli Mountains rise quickly, and the surrounding plain is one of Turkey's main centres for ornamental plant and cut-flower nurseries. The best-known destination is Termal, a spa village in a wooded valley a short drive inland. Its mineral-rich springs were used in Roman and Byzantine times and redeveloped under the Ottomans; the historic Kursunlu and Valide bathhouses still operate alongside newer hotel spas. In the city itself stands the Yuruyen Kosk, or Walking Mansion, a wooden house linked to Ataturk that was moved sideways on rails so a plane tree growing against it would not have to be cut. Inland, the hills hold waterfalls such as Sudusen and Erikli, the Karaca Arboretum's tree collection, and the high meadows of the Delmece plateau. Most visits pair a thermal soak with a drive into the hills; the baths are busiest in autumn and winter, while spring and early summer suit the waterfalls and greenery.