The icy heights and forested slopes of old mount Uluda are both blanketed in a delicate white winter blanket, a winter scene with deep lineage, as the snow and ice crystals swirl around in the biting cold whirlwind before being swept away. Turkey and history go hand in hand; it is in this ancient nation where the dazzling collisions of continents produced a massive hub of civilisations and a mingling of cultures. And in this gorgeous land, in the Marmara region, we discover the amazing Great Mount Uluda, a winter wonderland, a site of myths and tales, a mysterious mount covered in vibrant wildflowers whose delicate scent enchants its guest.
History of the Region
Ancient Greek mythology claimed that Mount Uluda, also known as Mysian Olympus, was the home of the gods, from whence they watched the Trojan Wars. Later, historians claim that between 185 and 184 BC, Prusias I (King of Bithynia), with the assistance of the legendary Hannibal, the illustrious Carthage general, laid out the city plans for Bursa. Prusias and Hannibal started building a city on the exact site of the encampment, a place with a fantastic overview of the vast plain below, a perfect location for a city! Hannibal arrived in Bithynia after Carthage lost the second Punic war to Rome and he encamped an army on the northern slopes of the Olympus of Mysia mountain.
The ancient city of Bursa, with its year-round ski resort, has a remarkable history. As we have already established, it was significant in classical antiquity, but its popularity spread far beyond that time period. The city of surprises even served as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and the site of the first minor emirate established by the Ottomans. The city is well known for its silk, peaches, chestnuts, and ski resort in addition to its history. Bursa's summit, Kara Tepe, boldly rises to a height of 2.543 meters and is surrounded by a thick forest. Bursa is situated at the base of Great Mount Uluda, the tallest mountain in western Anatolia.
The cable car ride up the old mountain's snow-covered peaks is an incredible journey in and of itself. It is a tranquil ascent through breathtaking nature, where you can see enormous centuries-old trees, shimmering snow and sparkling ice crystals blind you from below, and in the summer, the vibrant and unusual flora on the slopes captures your attention as you ascent. When you arrive, a ski paradise awaits you. Starting at an elevation of 1.800 meters and rising to 2.200 meters, this ski resort keeps tourists from across the world active all year long. Uluda is the most intriguing winter sports resort and trekking destination since, as was already said, it is one of Turkey's highest mountains and an extinct volcano.
Are you planning to visit Mount Uluda at some point? Which winter paradise do you like, by the way?
