Running parallel to the Mediterranean coast, the Taurus range is one of the longest in the Middle East. An intricate network of ridges and rocky peaks, the Aladaglar is the highest range with summits over 3700m high.

In winter, this rocky limestone range, rising abruptly from the fertile Anatolian plain is covered in deep snow transforming these mountains into an ideal playground for ski touring. While climbing up a canyon or lost valley, it is not uncommon to see a wolf, a lynx or ibex as these mountains have preserved their exceptional fauna.

As well as being a fantastic place for ski touring, this trip is an invitation to experience another civilisation.

We will be living under the same roof as the people of this village and experiencing their traditions and way of life and the welcome they will give you will exceed all your expectations.

Every evening we will sample a new dish carefully prepared by the mistress of the house - a legacy of the culinary traditions of the region.

This trip also comprises a stopover in Istanbul giving you time to visit the historic monuments there.

FEATURES OF THE TRIP

The highlights : This is an unusual way to discover the Turkish mountains at a time of year when they are  uncrowded.

                             You will ski on three different mountain ranges and therefore enjoy a wide range of  experience .

                             The alpine feel of the Taurus and then the isolated volcanoes of Mount Hassan and  Mount  Erciyes.

                              Meeting the local inhabitants is made easy as we stay in local houses.

                              The quality of the welcome and the organisational skills of our Turkish friends.

                              And if that’s not enough – there’s the fantastic skiing in a magnificent setting. It’s a  real  adventure !

Best time of year : March

Dates :  Saturday 17 March to Sunday 25 March 2012

Number of days away : 9

Number of days skiing : 5

Level : 4 to 5 hours to walk up - For competent skiers.

Number of participants : 6 - 7 people per 1 guide

Accommodation : Hotels in Kayseri and Istanbul and gîtes and local houses at the base of the  mountain.

Equipment to be carried : All the routes can be completed with a day pack. Travel bags are transported by minibus.

Local transport : Minibuses are used for all transfers during the trip and 4-wheel-drive are used to reach the ski areas.

PRICE :  € 1990 per person excluding flights. + Flight to Kayseri via Istanbul.

                 At the time we planned this trip, tickets cost approximately € 350.

Air Travel : Airline TURKISH AIRLINES