Yalova: The Favorite Resort of the «Father of All Turks»
Yalova is located 120 kilometers away from Istanbul, in the northwest of Turkey, in a picturesque area on the shore of the Sea of Marmara. It is a major balneological resort, renowned for its thermal springs found in the region.
Other local highlights include pristine mountain air, a remarkable park featuring thousands of unique plants and flowers, as well as fascinating natural and historical landmarks that draw travelers from all over the world.
«Yalova Is My City»
The history of Yalova dates back to ancient times, with the town being over five thousand years old. The Hittites were succeeded by the Phrygians, followed by the Romans and Byzantines. The first thermal baths in this region were built approximately 1,600 years ago during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantine.
During the Ottoman period, the resort was not highly regarded, as sultans, their families, and courtiers preferred the thermal baths in Bursa. It was not until the mid-19th century that Ottoman Sultan Abdulmejid reconstructed the thermal baths. His mother, Alem Valide Sultan, experienced remarkable relief from rheumatism in the local springs. To this day, the Valide Sultan Thermal Hammam operates on the resort’s grounds.
With the onset of the Balkan Wars in the early 20th century, the resort fell into decline. A new chapter of development began when Turkey’s great leader, Atatürk, came to power. The “Father of All Turks” held this place in high regard and frequently visited in the final years of his life. He once famously said, “Yalova is my city.” Today, one of the town’s notable landmarks is the house where Atatürk stayed to recuperate. Not far from the house lies a picturesque 26-meter waterfall.
The Healing Power of Yalova
The heart of the Yalova resort is the village of Gökçedere, where most of the thermal springs are located in and around its area. One of the most renowned therapeutic water complexes, Yalova Termal, welcomes guests right in Gökçedere.
This region features an underground magmatic pocket located close to the surface. It heats the subterranean waters, enriching them with minerals beneficial to the human body, and forces them to the surface under high pressure. Bathing facilities have been established at these water outlets, including baths, jacuzzis, pools, and saunas.
The mineral water from Yalova’s thermal springs is classified as hyperthermal due to its high temperature. Its chemical composition varies but generally contains significant amounts of calcium, sodium, sulfur, and silver ions. The water can be used both externally and internally. Typically, the springs are equipped with signs providing visitors with the necessary information.
The mineral water from Yalova’s springs has a temperature ranging from +40°C to +60°C and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including:
- Skin conditions;
- Gynecological diseases;
- Digestive tract disorders;
- Liver, gallbladder, and kidney diseases;
- Respiratory conditions (excluding tuberculosis);
- Endocrine disorders;
- Urinary and reproductive system diseases;
- Neurological disorders;
- Inflammatory processes and rheumatism.
Visitors can rejuvenate in an open-air pool filled with hot mineral water, in the “Sultan’s Baths” (featuring 26 private cabins), or in a traditional Turkish sauna. Massage rooms are also available at the resort.
Yalova attracts individuals with conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. The treatments here are beneficial for those diagnosed with arthritis, colitis, cystitis, diabetes, and many other ailments. Mineral water baths from the hot springs are noted for helping to lose weight, while drinking the water helps normalize metabolism.
However, it is advised to consult a specialist before visiting the resort for treatment and rehabilitation to ensure the trip will be beneficial for your specific health needs.
Weather at the Resort
Yalova Termal offers accommodations in a range of price categories and styles. Hotels are open year-round, but for those wishing to combine balneological treatments with swimming in the sea, the best time to visit is late spring, summer, or the early months of autumn.
Average air temperatures by month:
- January: +0–3°C
- February: +0–5°C
- March: +7–10°C
- April: +11–25°C
- May: +15–28°C
- June: +25–30°C
- July: +27–30°C
- August: +29–31°C
- September: +25–19°C
- October: +15–11°C
- November: +11–7°C
- December: +0–7°C
Yalova’s climate closely resembles that of Istanbul, making it a pleasant destination for visitors throughout the year.
Attractions of Yalova
The Walking Pavilon
One of Yalova’s most fascinating landmarks is the Walking Pavilon (Yürüyen Köşkü), the residence where Turkey’s first president, Atatürk, once stayed.
The mansion earned its unusual name after Atatürk ordered it to be moved in order to preserve a beautiful old tree. The building was relocated three kilometers down the waterfront using special rails, and the very same tree still grows in its original spot today.
Dendropark
The resort’s pride is its magnificent park, home to thousands of unique plants and flowers. Within the park is the «Stairway of Love», a popular destination for newlyweds who come for strolls and stunning wedding photos. The park also features springs with mineral water.
Yalova Waterfront
Another highlight of the town is the Yalova Waterfront, lined with numerous cafés and tea gardens (çay bahçesi) where visitors can enjoy the local specialty, balık ekmek, delicious fish with vegetables wrapped in flatbread.
The waterfront also includes a marina, and nearby, an eastern bazaar offers an impressive selection of fresh local produce, cheeses, sweets, and more, ranging from kitchenware to clothing. The bazaar operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
Mahaçkala Park
This is the main park of the resort, named Mahaçkala in honor of Yalova’s twin town. The park is located near the city hall.
In the center of the park, a monument to Imam Shamil was installed in 2011. From here, most of the town’s attractions can be reached on foot. Public transport from the town’s remote areas goes to the park (get off at the Park İçi Yolu stop).
Byzantine Church (Tarihi Kilise)
A structure preserved to this day from the Roman period, which during Byzantine times was used as a church. Later, it was repurposed as a reservoir, with an apse (arch) added on top. It has been established that an ancient settlement was located near the church. During excavations, stelae from the Byzantine period were discovered here, some of which can be seen in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum.
Aqualand Waterpark
The waterpark is located a 30-minute drive from Yalova. Slides, a swimming school, a spa center, and loungers make this place appealing to various categories of tourists. Operating hours: 11:00 to 17:30. Ticket prices: €5 for adults, €3 for children, and free entry for children under four years old.
Natural Wonders
Sudüşen Waterfall is a natural waterfall, a pleasant place to spend time in warm weather. The sound of the water, fresh air, and surrounding greenery provide tranquility, making a walk here a great addition to a relaxing vacation.
Yedi Havuzlar is a waterfall with cascades forming seven ponds. Both sides of it are adorned with hydrangeas, pomegranate trees, and conifers.
Also among the natural attractions of the resort are the beautiful forest lake Dipsiz (located in the village of Çınarcık) and the geysers Valide Bath and Kurşunlu.
