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The Beydaglar Mountains, the western extension of the Taurus
Mountains, lie to the west of the Bay of Antalya and run
parallel a north-south direction. The most important peaks are
Teke, Mt. Bakirdagi, Mt. Tahtali Dag and Kizlar Sivrisi. The
tallest of these is Kizlar Sivrisi, 3069ms.
This mountain, which enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year, can
be climbed in one day and the view of the sea and Antalya is
well worth the effort. The sunrise form the peak, for those
willing to sacrifice some sleep, is dazzling.
Parachuting is possible here with a good wind, and has
stunning views. Besides an important climbing and hiking
centre, Beydaglar Mountains also offer superb winter sports.
Height: 3069 m
Location: These mountains make up the western portion of the
Taurus Mountains, located in the province of Antalya. They run
north-south, parallel to the Mediterranean coast. Climbing and
hiking are possible year-round, with the best months between
April and June
Characteristics: These mostly limestone mountains exhibit a
wide range of flora, and there are quite a number of peaks in
this range
Transportation: The best starting point for climbers is
Antalya, Kemer and Elmali, and there is a good choice of
transport by road, air and sea from Istanbul and Izmir, and
air or road from Ankara
 Climbing:
The highest peak in the region, Kizlar Sivrisi, (3069 m.) can
be reached from Elmali. From here, one may go by car to the
Camcukuru highlands, which are covered with cedar forests.
Climbers camping at Camcukuru can reach the summit and return
to camp in one day. The most interesting hike or climb in the
region is Mt. Tahtali (2360 m), which has many different
species of plant life up to 2000 meters, and above the tree
line is mountain pastures. To climb Mt. Tahtali, take a car
from Kemer to Sogukpinar (Sogucaksu) on the mountain's
northern slope, in order to set up camp. The view during the
climb is one of ever-changing beauty.
The Toros Ala Mountains
Forming part of the central Toros (Taurus)range, the Aladaglar
range runs from the southwest to the northeast for
approximately 50 kilometers and boasts the region’s highest
peak, Demirkazik which strectches to 3565 meters. Other high
summit include Kizilkaya in the center (3725 m). This long
range, situated in the provinces of Nigde, Kayseri and Adana,
rises between Lake Ecemis and the Zamanti river
The geology of the area is responsible for the interesting
rock formations and waterfalls. The erosion of limestone has
created a fascinating karstic topography and hydrography,
especially in the Yedigoller valley, where karstic underground
rivers and caverns collect the surfers water. Both the
Mediterranean and Anatolian weather systems influence the
climate of the Aladaglar bringing warm summers and cool
winters to the mountains.
Trips and climbs
 The
best season to climb the mountains is during May, June, July
and August when the alpine meadows of the higher elevations
are rich in vegetation.
Researchers and mountaineers ascendþng the Aladaglar usually
begin their climb from either Camardi or Cukurbag villages.
Those attempting to climb the Demirkazýk summit depart from
Demirkazýk village. Both of these villages lie 65 km from
Nigde and can be reached by asphalt road.
Regional attrections: The yaylas of the Toros (Taurus) Aladag
are the summer homes of entire villages and the summer grazing
of herds of animals. Be sure to see the roundþng up of all the
animals for milking. Traditionally women of these encampments
have produced some of Turkey’s most beautiful carpets and
kilims, and it is often possible to see a carpet still in
progress
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