Ladik-Havza Highland and Thermal Spring Route

A Highland and Healing-Water Route Through Inland Samsun

Tucked into the southern interior of Samsun province, this route links the districts of Ladik and Havza for travelers who want to experience both the cool highlands and the region's thermal springs in a single day. It begins at the shore of a lake and ends at a small historic house-turned-museum in Havza, with each stop flowing naturally into the next.

The best way to start is early morning at Lake Ladik, before the morning mist lifts — ideal conditions for birdwatching and photography. From there, a short climb leads to Ladik Yayla, a highland plateau whose cool air and open pastures make it a natural rest stop in summer. Just beyond it lies Aktaş Yayla, a second plateau facing a different valley; the short distance between the two offers two distinct views without adding much driving time.

The highest point on the route is Akdağ Ski Center. It operates as an active ski resort in winter (December to March); in the warmer months the facilities are closed, but the view over the Ladik plain from this elevation is worth the detour on its own. From here the route descends toward Hamamayağı Thermal Spring, a small, locally run spa that keeps its unhurried, low-key character — a good spot for a quiet break rather than a crowded facility.

The final stretch is in central Havza. First comes a stop at Havza Thermal Springs, one of Samsun's best-known spa destinations, followed by the nearby Atatürk House Museum, which completes the route. The house served as a stopping point during a visit to the region in the War of Independence years and is now open to visitors as a museum.

Getting There and Timing

This route is best done by private car, since parts of the highland roads aren't well served by public transport. The total distance between stops is roughly 90 kilometers, and a realistic plan is to set aside a full day — around 7 to 8 hours including stops. Since Ladik and Havza's town centers are already connected by road, the route also works well in reverse, starting from Havza.

Best Time to Visit

May through September suits the lake and the highlands best, while December through March is the season for the ski center; the two can't really be experienced at their peak on the same visit, so the route can be adjusted seasonally by shifting its focus.

Local Tip

The thermal area in Havza gets noticeably busier on weekend afternoons — mornings are a better choice if you want to enjoy the pools without the crowds.