Yalova became a province in 1995 until which time it had been a district of Istanbul. Yalova is rich in resources and also historical monuments and is an extremely beautiful province.
The first settlement in Yalova dates back to the Prehistoric period with findings dating back to 3000BC. The first rulers in Yalova were the Hittites who ruled around the 21st century BC and they were then followed in the 13th century BC by the Phrygians. The Kimmer invasion took place in 700 BC and there are notable traces of the Bithynian influence prior to Bithynia being annexed to Rome as a bequest in 74BC.
There are also traces of the Byzantine reign which soon gave way to the Ottoman Empire.
Location
The city of Yalova is located in the Marmara region of North West Turkey. Yalova lies to the south of Istanbul across the Gulf of Izmit right on the Sea of Marmara. Yalova is a small city with most parts accessible on foot. Lying between Istanbul, Bursa and Kocaeli it is possibly best described as a green island between three major cities. Yalova has a beautiful stretch of beach with a great selection of beachside restaurants and even a small fun fair.
Population
The population as a whole in Yalova is in the excess of 220,000 residents. The population growth rate in Yalova was 2.56% which is quite high when compared to the population growth at the same time in Turkey as a whole which stood at just 1.45%. The urban population went down by nearly 60% while the rural areas increased by almost 45% over the period that followed the 1999 earthquake and fear of a repeat. The urban city fought back though to re establish the population by reconstructing the city with reinforced buildings which had the skeptics soon returning to their urban lifestyles.
Most of the homes that are located on the coastline of Yalova are second homes used solely for tourism purposes; therefore there is a huge increase on the population during the summer months.
Prime Locations
The city of Yalova attracts the rural population of other cities to their areas. The rural areas of Yalova in particular Armutlu and surrounding areas have a relatively low population with the younger population in these areas almost nonexistent. These areas have dense vegetation and there is little agricultural land. Therefore as a result of this it is imperative that good use is made of the city to enable optimum income without causing damage to the natural resources.
Yalova relies on the tourist trade and therefore every effort is made to ensure that there are reasons for the tourist to choose Yalova for their holidays. Yalova is also one of the most important spa centres in Turkey, and it is famous for its thermal tourism. Other than the thermal tourism which is available all year round this port city also provides ideal opportunities for beach tourism and alternative holiday options such as hunting, sports and nature tourism which can take place in both the spring and the autumn and ensures that there is something available and appealing to visitors all year round and the income that is generated from the tourism does not solely rely on the weather.
Climate
Yalova has a climate that is best described as borderline Mediterranean/humid sub tropical. The winters are cold to residents however very mild (high 40*F – mid 50*F) to those from other countries, and the summers are hot and humid. January and February are on average the coldest months with temperatures averaging 50*F and the warmer weather begins in May through to October where temperatures average mid 70*F with July and August well into the high 80*F. During the summer months there is on average three days of rain with December and January seeing as much as 12 days of rain in the month.
Quality of Life
Yalova is undoubtedly one of the nicest cities in Turkey. The city offers clean air, green spaces, thermal springs and the most wonderful sea. With its close proximity to Istanbul and several large residential areas, it makes an ideal choice for those looking to relax within stunning surroundings. For those looking to relocate there are good employment prospects and with the recent construction of the Gulf bridge, travel to and from the area could not be easier.
Yalova is the new rising city just under an hour from Istanbul with excellent transportation links, providing the residents or visitors with the unique privilege of being near to all the benefits of Istanbul but away from all the hustle and bustle. Yalova has the enviable location of being on the seafront as well as being next to the thermal springs.
Yalova offers all the benefits and advantages of urban life with all the privileges of a healthy lifestyle amidst the best that nature has to offer.
Yalova is also undergoing a new way in which the urban transport runs and this will include walkways for pedestrians plus transport options for the elderly and those with disabilities. The plan referred to as healthy urban living has been created by the government in conjunction with the universities and is said to benefit all age groups.
Yalova offers everything required for day to day living at reasonable costs. This is an ideal area for those seeking a good climate with a modest lifestyle and the opportunity to live in a truly healthy environment.
Things to do in Yalova
Yalova offers quality attractions as opposed to quantity, however there is still many must do and see activities which should appeal to everyone regardless of their age or preference. Our list of top attractions includes:
1. Termal Hot Springs – the famous hot springs near to Yalova are a must, particularly for those who suffer with joint pains and related conditions.
2. Karacea Arboretum – this fascinating live tree museum will have you viewing nature in a very different way.
3. Su Dusen – marvel at the stunning view that is Su Dusen, which translates to water falling and is the most aesthetically pleasing water fall.
4. Yuruyen Kosk – the formal name of this attraction is Yuruyen Kosk and this is a stunning Ottoman – Turkish style mansion that was used by Ataturk during his visits to the city.
5. Beach West of Yalova – this is just one of the superb beaches that are available in Yalova. This beach is predominately used by local families and is incredibly quiet and well worth the visit.