İnformation About Bolu

Area: 11.051 km² 

Population: 270.654 (2000) 

Traffic Code: 14

Bolu province is the city where the shades of green and blue embraces each other, sleeping and waking together, where the wind still whispers one of the most dramatic legends at the peaks of the high mountains, where numerous civilizations was founded and developed, leaving plenty of creations and artwork behind. 

If you want to see the beauties of Bolu, which were kneaded by the nature, mankind and history together and listen to the folk songs of Köroğlu which are sang by the mountains, all you need to do is endure a bus journey. Reaching Bolu Province is quite easy, as the city is located nearly at the middle point of the highway, which connects the two major cities, Ankara and Istanbul. 

Districts: Dörtdivan, Gerede, Göynük, Kıbrısçık, Mengen, Mudurnu, Seben and Yeniçağa are the district of Bolu province.

How to Get

The TEM highway, which connects Ankara and Istanbul and the D - 100 highway passes through Bolu. Therefore, reaching the city by the means of highway from every location of the country is quite easy. The historical and touristic locations around the city could be reached by buses and shared taxis. The Bolu bus station is 1 km. away from the city center. 

Where to Visit

Museums and Ancient Cities

Bolu Museum: The museum is located inside the Culture Center and the works exhibited in the museum are obtained from various dated excavations executed at the region. Among these works are the head piece of a statue, which is suspected to belong to the Roman King Antonius, coins from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman period, statues, inscriptions and ethnographic house hold objects. 

Telephone of the Museum: (+90 - 374) 215 16 91 

Bolu (Bithynium - Claudiopolis): According to the archeological data, the first settlement period of the Bolu plain extends up to the BC 3rd thousands. The settlement of the Bithynium - Claudiopolis city, located on the hills inside the city center extends to BC 7th century according to the findings from Hisartepe excavation in 1978. Ruins of Antinous Temple and a structure which is assumed to be the theatre, coins, pots, bottles, statues and tomb steles belonging to various periods are discovered in the excavations executed until today. These works and remnants are exhibited in the Bolu Museum. 

Seben Rock Houses: ( Old Settlement Region) There are rock houses having more than one floors carved in the surface of the rocks of the deep valleys which are in the vicinity of Çeltik Creek, Hoçaş, Kaşbıyıklar and Yuva villages of Seben District.

Castles

Gerede Asar Castle: The castle is located to the southeast of Örencik Village of Gerede District. There are abundant Byzantine period ceramic remnants scattered on the field surrounding the castle indicating that the castle is from the Byzantine Period. Also there is a cave entrance above the castle facing north.

Religious Monuments

The mosques of Bolu province are Büyük Mosque (Yıldırım Beyazıt Mosque), Kadı Mosque, Saraçhane Mosque, İmaret Mosque, Ilıca Mosque, Süleyman Paşa Mosque, Yıldırım Mosque, Kanunî Mosque, Yukarı Tekke Mosque and Eskiçağa Yıldırım Mosque.

Mausoleums

The mausoleums of Bolu province are Tokaî Hayreddin Mausoleum, Akşemseddin Mausoleum, Ömer Sekkin Mausoleum, Aşağı Tekke Mausoleum, Ümmi Kemal Mausoleum, Kasım Dede Mausoleum and Babahızır Mausoleum.

Inns And Baths

Yukarı Taşhan (Upper Stone Inn): The Yukarı Taşhan is located at the Bolu central Büyük Mosque quarter and was constructed by Abdullah Ağa in 1804.
Orta Hamam (Central Bath): This bath was constructed by the order of Yıldırım Beyazıt in 1389. The bath was constructed in the style of double bath and the interior sections are highly decorated. It is located at the city center.

Tabaklar Bath: The bath was constructed by the order of Tavil Mehmet Paşa in the 16th Century. The bath has two separate sections and the interior is covered with marbles.

Sultan Bath: This bath was constructed by the order of Sokullu Mehmet Paşa in the 16th Century. The bath was constructed in the style of double bath.. It is located at the city center.

Süleyman Paşa Bath: The bath is located in Göynük District. It was constructed by the order of Gazi Süleyman Paşa in 1335.

Yıldırım Beyazıt Bath: The bath is located in Mudurnu District and is adjacent to the Mosque having the same name. It is the most beautiful bath among the other baths constructed in the same period. The bath was constructed in 1382. It is one of the most original samples of early period Ottoman baths.

The bath attracts attention with its corolla entrance gate and dome crossings.

Yıldırım Bath: The bath is located in the Eski Çağa Village of Yeniçağa District. The bath was constructed in the name of Yıldırım Beyazıt in 1388 and is an important architectural creation. 

Aşağı Bath (Lower Bath): The bath is located in the Kitirler quarter of Gerede District. It was constructed from the rubble stone by the end of 14th century.

Göynük Houses

The Göynük District had been announced as "Urban Protected Area ". The district accommodates a rich number of old Turkish Houses. The houses in this district are mostly constructed by the beginning of the 20th century. In the sitting rooms of the some houses, the ceiling is adorned by various patterns. There are courtyards called "Hayat" (living) in front of the houses.

Mudurnu Houses

The Mudurnu District is also announced as Rural Protected Area and accommodates a rich number of old Turkish Houses. The houses of Mudurnu display similar properties with the houses of Göynük in the scope of civil architecture and these houses representing the history and culture of the district are under protection. Preserved Areas Bolu - Yedigöller National Park NATIONAL PARKS  Location: The Yedigoller (Seven Lakes) National Park is in the north of the Bolu province, and south of Zonguldak in the western Black Sea region. Transportation: The park can be reached via the Yenicaga road, 152km off the Ankara – Istanbul highway. The Bolu – Yedigoller route is closed during winter, which means transport is only available via the Yenicaga – Mengen – Yazicik road. Highlights: The park is the best known for the lakes formed by landslides, the rich plant life which gives dense coverage to the area, and the abundance of trout living in the lake. The structure of the land, which has tendencies to subside, is the main factor in the lake’s formation. The dominant plant cover is beech trees, and there are also oaks, hornbeams, alders, black pine, Scotch pine, firs elm and lime trees. As a result of effective protection of plant and animal life, the animals inside the park like deer, pigs, wolves, foxes and squirrels are increasing in number. There is also a deer protection area. This area saw the first cultured trout farm in Turkey, established in 1969, and as a result trout fishing is a popular activity. The sightseeing tower at Kapankaya, inside the park, offers a great opportunity to view a wide area over the lakes and unique landscape. One of the most famous items is the monumental tree signboard on the way to the tower. Facilities: Within the park are guest-houses, bungalows, tents and caravans, as well as cafes and restaurants. Bolu - Bolu Hazelnut Nature Reserve Location: The area is 35km north of Bolu, in the western Black Sea region.  Transportation: The park can be reached via the Bolu-Yigica highway. Bolu is between Istanbul and Ankara, and is well connected by public transport.  Highlights: The area of 460 hectares has a unique ecosystem in which the endangered Bolu hazelnut tree flourishes. It grows naturally only in Turkey, and is noted for its height (25-30m) and broad trunk around 1m in diameter. In the area there are many other species of trees includiing the Uludag fir, Scotch pine, larch, beech, poplar, alder, plane and lime. There are also rare species of deer, plus bears, wolves, foxes, pigs, rabbits, trout and carp. Bolu - Akdogan Nature Reserve Location: The nature reserve is near the village of Yeniguney, in the central district of Bolu in the Western Black Sea region.  Transportation: Yeniguney village lies 2.5km off the E5 Ankara-Istanbul highway.  Highlights: This is the only place in the world, where the endangered Midwife pine tree grows and spreads naturally. In addition to this rare species, others include the larch and oak trees. The forest is also home to pigs, foxes, weasels, rabbits, squirrels, hedgehogs, partridges, stock-doves, turtle doves, cuckoos, owls, bee-eaters, woodpeckers and goldfinches. Bolu - Kökez Nature Reserve Location: The park is near Atacak, in the district of Bolu in the Western Black Sea province.  Transportation: It is accessible via the Bolu-Seben state highway, then taking the forest road after 18km from Bolu.  Highlights: The 324 hectares have a very untouched and rare forest ecosystem, with exceptionally tall and old Uludag fir trees, plus beech and horn-beam trees. The forest also contains wild cherry, hazelnut and strawberries, and is a home to deer, pigs, bears, wolves, foxes and rabbits. Bolu - Sülüklügöl Nature Reserve Location: The forest is in the region of Mudurnu, near the villages of Akyol and Kuskavagi, south of Bolu in the Western Black Sea region.  Transportation: It can be reached via the Bolu-Abant Taskesti road.  Highlights: Suluklu Gol (Lake) has a unique forest ecosystem, caused by the tectonic movements of the earth which has created a very damp environment. Species of trees found here are larch, Scotch pine, fir, beech, oak, popular, horn-beam, lime, cherry and silver birch. The forest is also home to the roe deer, wild boar, bear, wolf, fox, rabbit, sparrow hawk, and tree frog. Bolu - Abant Lake NATURAL PARKS  Location: Abant Lake is 33km away from Bolu, in the west of the Black Sea region, and exactly halfway between Ankara and Istanbul. Transportation: The lake can be reached via the E-5, the Istanbul – Ankara highway, and then turning off at Omerler Madensuyu for 22km. Bolu is well connected by bus to other parts of the country. Highlights: The lake shelters a variety of plants, and 1150 hectares were designated the status of Natural Park in 1988. The main species are Scotch pine, beech, larch, oak, poplar, ash, horn- beam, willow, juniper, forest rose, tamarisk, hazelnut, holly, dog-rose, bracken, blackberry, strawberry, mint, raspberry, ivy, nettle, mare's tail, and a variety of pasture grasses and trees. Species of animals include pig, deer, roe deer, bear, fox, jackal, rabbit, plus birds of prey and singing birds. Facilities: The best time to visit the lake is between May and September, especially for walking and picnicking around the lake. There are a few hotels in the park. Thermal Resorts Bolu Thermal Spring: The thermal spring resort is 5 km. away from the city center and is at the Karacasu locality. The surrounding area is covered with forests and is a beautiful promenade area. The region is a thermal tourism center and there are three units serving the visitors. These units are a thermal hotel and big thermal spring, small thermal spring and the physics treatment and rehabilitation hospital of the Ministry of Health. These thermal springs are natural sources and the waters of these thermal springs are known to cure rheumatic diseases, skin diseases, circulation and hearth diseases, respiration system diseases, gynecological diseases digestion system diseases, kidney and urethra diseases, bone and calcification diseases and metabolism disorders.  Karacasu Thermal Tourism Center (Health Tourism)  Babas Thermal Spring: The thermal Resort is at 5 km. distance to Mudurnu District. The waters of this thermal spring come out between the travertine formations. There is a facility with 18 bed capacity. The waters of the thermal spring display positive results in curing the metabolism diseases, rheumatism, gynecological diseases, digestion and kidney discomforts.  Sarot Thermal Spring: The thermal spring is located at the 30 km. northwest of Mudurnu District, inside the borders of Ilıca village. The water of the spring is at 66º C temperature. It is a known fact that this thermal spring is in use for a period over 1500 years. There is a historical bath constructed in the region. The waters of the spring are classified as sour water. If the water is used as mineral water and drank, it is good for urethra and kidney diseases and if used as thermal water, it is good for rheumatism diseases. There is a small accommodation facility near the thermal spring.  Bağlum (Kesenözü): Thermal Spring Bağlum Thermal spring is located 14 km. south of Seben district inside the borders of Kesenözü village. The water of the thermal spring is used for bathing purposes for centuries. It is a known fact that the waters of this thermal spring have a positive effect in the cure of the stomach, ballast, respiration and circulation system disorders. There are motels managed by private sector at the thermal spring.  Çatak Thermal Spring: The thermal spring is located to 30 km. southeast of Göynük district inside the borders of Himmetoğlu village, which is founded inside a beautiful valley between steep rocks. The waters of the thermal resort are good for rheumatism and sciatica disorders. From the ruins in the vicinity, it is understood that the thermal spring was used until the Roman period. Highlands Aladağ Plateaus: These plateaus are located at the mountain skirts, which are 25 km. south of Bolu province, and are totally surrounded by forests. With the green plains, these plateaus are ideal for picnic purposes and display a dazzling beauty with the Forest Administration Facilities, Aladağ Boy scout Camp and small lake. The main plateaus with the camping possibilities are Değirmenözü, Sarıalan, Gölcük, Ardıçtepe and Üstyaka Plateaus. At Plateau: The plateau is located behind the mountains, which are at the northern side of Bolu Province. This plateau is famous with its cherries and is surrounded by fruit gardens.. Every year, a traditional cherry festival is organized at this plateau. Gerede Plateaus: These plateaus are located at the south of Gerede District and are at 1200 - 1500 meters altitude. The main plateaus are Haşat, Zorpan and Dörtdivan plateaus (located on the eastern Köroğlu Mountains). Kıbrısçık Plateaus: They are located on the plains at the southern side of the Köroğlu Mountains. The important plateaus among these are Belen, Karaköy, Kökez, Bölücekkaya, Karadoğan and Devevira (at an altitude of 1825 m.) plateaus. Mengen Plateaus: These Plateaus are located at the east of Mengen District. The important plateaus among these are Sarıklı, Soğucak, Mile, Sepetçiler, Çelebioğlu and Çiftçatak Plateaus.  Mudurnu Plateaus: They are at the north of the district and south of Abant Lake. Most important plateaus are Dedeler, Alpağut, Dodurga and Dağyolu Plateaus. Göynük Plateaus: These plateaus are located between an altitude zone of 1000 - 1500 meters. Karabey and Kaşıkçı plateaus are the most important plateaus. Seben Plateaus: These plateaus are gathered around the Kiraz Mountain at an average altitude of 1400 meters. Gerenözü and Kızık Plateaus are the most important plateaus. Kızık Plateau: The houses of the Kızık Plateau attract attention with their different architecture style. These houses were constructed without using pins with the style of joining, wrapping and clamping of pine trees. These houses display different characteristics with their high stairs, wide ovens and original furniture.

Sporting Activities

Ski Centers Esentepe : The ski resort is located to the north of Gerede District at an altitude of 1.300 meters. The three-star Esentepe Hotel is available for winter sports and skiing possibilities. The hotel has a wonderful view dominant to the entire district and is possible to do grass skiing at the hotel. The name Esentepe was given to the region by Atatürk, because of the permanent winds blowing in the region. There are century old pine trees in the area. 

Kartalkaya Ski Center

Hunting And Line Fishing : The forest stratum and rich fauna and flora surrounding the Bolu Province in four directions accommodates various hunting games. The terrestrial hunting games like bear, lynx, wild boar, deer, roe deer, wolf, marten, fox, badger, rabbit, skunk, weasel, beaver and red squirrel and avian hunting games like partridge, stock dove, quail, freckled partridge, toy bird, crane bird, woodcock, dove and predator birds like sparrow hawk, hawk and eagle are frequently encountered in the forest region. 

Bolu region is also an ideal region for line fishing activities as is accommodates lots of lakes. The fishes like trout, crap, coral fish and silver fish are available for line fishing at the Abant Lake, Gölcük Lake, Gölköy Dam Lake, Yedigöller (Seven lakes) and Aladağ lake. 

Paragliding : There are very convenient places for the paragliding activities at the Abant Mountains and touristic tours are arranged from major cities to Abant Mountains for paragliding. 

Paragliding (Air Sports)

GEOGRAPHY

Bolu Province is located inside the generally precipitant Black Sea climate type . Beside this fact, terrestrial climate properties are encountered at the southern parts of the region.

HISTORY

According to the written documents, archeological works and historical sources, history of the Bolu Province starts with the Bithynians. Later Romans, Byzantines, Seljukians and Ottomans had dominated the region respectively.

WHERE TO EAT

The famous deserts of Bolu Province could be counted as hazelnut candies, chocolate, pine honey, cream and butter. The Kabaklı gözleme (marrow pancake) is the local pastry. The saray helvası (Palace halvah) and köpük helvası (froth halvah) of Mudurnu District, the candy bean of Göynük District, apple and grape of Seben District and the cheese of Mengen District are worth tasting.

WHERE TO BUY
The pine cologne, hazelnut candy, chocolate, pine honey, cream, butter, marrow pancake of Bolu Province; saray helvası (Palace halvah) and köpük helvası (froth halvah), silk embroideries of Mudurnu District; leather and copper crafts of Gerede District; candy bean, hand crafts of Göynük District; apple and grape of Seben District; the cheese of Mengen District; rice, hand crafted bags and pileless carpets of Kıbrıscık District could be bought as souvenirs.




DON'T LEAVE WITHOUT
- Camping and taking photos at seven lakes region in Autumn,
- Trekking around the Abant Lake and other lakes,
- Seeing the Mudurnu and Göynük houses,
- Seeing the plateaus of Bolu,
- Skiing in Kartalkaya, Paragliding in Abant.
- Seeing the Seben Rock Houses,
- Buying The pine cologne, hazelnut candy, chocolate, pine honey, cream, butter, marrow pancake of Bolu Province; saray helvası (Palace halvah) and köpük helvası (froth halvah), silk embroideries of Mudurnu District; leather and copper crafts of Gerede District; candy bean, hand crafts of Göynük District; apple and grape of Seben District; the cheese of Mengen District; rice, hand crafted bags and pileless carpets of Kıbrıscık District,
Participating the Traditional "Mengen Cook and Tourism Festival", Dörtdivan Plateau Festivals and Bolu Köroğlu Culture Art Tourism Festival,