Turkey Guide
Around the Sea of Marmara
Termal
There are regular dolmuşes from Yalova to the famous hot springs at Termal, 12km to the southwest (just inland from Çinarcik). Although visited by Byzantine and Roman emperors, Termal's springs only became fashionable again at the turn of the twentieth century and most of the Ottoman belle époque buildings date from that era.
Atatürk had a house built here, now open as a museum (Atatürk Müzesi; Tues– Sun 8.30am– noon & 1–5pm; 2YTL), which preserves a certain rustic charm, its original hand-crafted furniture still in place. Several hamams – popular for their beneficial effect on rheumatism and skin diseases – offer communal pools (daily 8am–11pm; 10YTL) with separate compartments for tour groups. Water temperatures reach 65°C, so the best time to visit is in winter when the hot water provides a haven from the seasonal chill. In summer, you'll find yourself swimming, then jumping out to sunbathe in order to cool off.
Practicalities
The spa resort is completely dominated by two luxury hotels, both owned by the Yalova Termal Kaplicari hotel group: the Çinar and the Çamlık (reservations for both 
0226/675 7400, 
www.yalovatermal.com ; Price: €50-62), whose rooms vary in price according to size, facilities and location. A cheaper alternative can be found nearby in an idyllic location in the village of Üvezpİnar, on one of the surrounding hills: the Dinana ( 0226/675 7668, 
675 7293; Price: €32-49) is family-run and clean, with pleasant rooms all with balconies overlooking the forested mountains, and a restaurant serving simple meals. Üvezpınar is a two-kilometre hike up the road leading from the jandarma station to the left of the entrance to Termal, or up steps leading from within the resort itself.