Bolu, Turkey

Bolu northwestern Turkey. It is situated at 2,434 feet (742 m) above sea level on the southern slopes of a bare hill. The region was once part of the Hittite empire and became the kingdom of Bithynia in the 5th century BC. At nearby Eskihisar are ruins of the ancient Bithynium, a flourishing town of Asia Minor and—as birthplace of the Roman emperor Hadrian's favourite, Antinos—recipient of many privileges during that emperor's reign (AD 117–138). Taken by the Ottoman Turks about 1325, Bolu is the reputed home of the legendary Turkish folk hero Köroðlu. The modern city is the seat of a women's teacher-training college and a school of forestry, and its industries produce leather products. Bolu is one of the most enchanting areas of Turkey located approximately half-way between Istanbul and Ankara. Bolu is famous for its dense forests, fauna and modern hot spring facilities. Lake Abant is one of the amazing beauties that the city of Bolu provides. It is 55 kilometers southwest of the province, situated at an altitude of 1500 meters. The lake is a magnificent one with water lilies spread over, and the deep green forest surrounding it. There are high-quality accommodation establishments around the lake which deserves spending some time. It is frozen in winter time and people ice-skate on it. Another wonder of Bolu is the Yedigoller (Seven Lakes) National Park which has an appeal beyond words. Golcuk, an artificial lake 11 kilometers south of the city, surrounded with green forests, is another lovely site for picnicking or trekking. Kartalkaya in the Koroglu Mountains is a perfect resort for those who like skiing. It is one of the three best winter sports centers in Turkey. You will find quietness and sportive enthusiasm in Kartalkaya. Aladag meadows are the other attractive tourist sites in these mountains. 53 kilometers northwest of Bolu is Konuralp (near Dzce) which once was the ancient Pruso ad Hyplum. You can see a well preserved Roman theatre and fine examples of Roman and Byzantine art, sheltered in the museum.