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3 places to visit in the Armutlu district of Yalova: Armutlu Thermal Baths, Hacı Ali Paşa Mosque and Bülbül Stream. Plan your trip to Armutlu with local food, practical tips and transport information.

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Armutlu covers 166 km², lies at an elevation of 10 m and has a population of 11,984. It gained district status in 1995.

Geography

Armutlu lies east of the Sea of Marmara, north of the Gulf of Gemlik. The district is bordered by Yalova to the north-east, Orhangazi to the east, Gemlik to the south-east, and the Sea of Marmara to the south-west and north. Around 70% of the district is sloping, and the rest is flat. The forested area covers 14,522 hectares.

Etymology

The name Armutlu is thought to derive from the words “Armodo” or “Armodies”. Over time it has also been known as Enrutluk, Emrudili and Imrudili.

History

Historical records place Armutlu within the borders of the Kingdom of Bithynia in the 5th century BC. After the 1st century BC it came under Roman rule, and after the Roman Empire was divided it was ruled by the Byzantines. Finally, in 1324, during the reign of Orhan Gazi, it was incorporated into Ottoman territory. Atatürk first came to Armutlu on 9 August 1934, with the aim of visiting the Armutlu Thermal Baths.

Economy

Armutlu’s economy depends largely on olive farming, fishing and tourism businesses. Thermal baths and spa facilities, developed in recent years, are an important source of tourism income. The geothermal water on the Armutlu–Yalova road is the main draw for spa tourism.

History and Culture

Armutlu was incorporated into Ottoman territory in 1324, during the reign of Orhan Gazi. Its economy rests on olive farming, fishing and tourism businesses. There are various accounts of the origin of the name Armutlu.

Highlights

Armutlu lies in the south-east of the Sea of Marmara and to the north of the Gulf of Gemlik. The Armutlu Historic Castle was built by the Genoese. Atatürk attached particular importance to the Armutlu Thermal Baths, and he valued these structures during his visits in 1934.

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Places to Visit in Armutlu

  • 2 Religious
  • 1 Nature
Religious

Armutlu Thermal Baths

Known as a historic landmark, the baths are important for tourism. Atatürk visited them in 1934.

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Religious

Hacı Ali Paşa Mosque

A historic building dating from the Ottoman period.

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Nature

Bülbül Stream

A stream in Armutlu with rock-cut tomb remains on its banks.

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Places to Visit Around Yalova Province

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While you are in Armutlu, you can also see the highlights of Yalova province. These places are in other districts; Armutlu is about 55 km from the provincial centre.

  • Walking Mansion (Yürüyen Köşk) — A two-storey semi-masonry pavilion built in 1929 at the Yalova Millet Farm; it takes its name from having been moved bodily from its position to save a large plane tree that had caught Atatürk's attention.
  • Yalova Atatürk Mansion — A two-storey pavilion built at Atatürk's wish in 1929 in the Termal district, 12 km south of Yalova.
  • Historic Çınar Hotel (Termal) — A hotel building in the centre of Termal, known for its historic timber façade.
  • Sudüşen Waterfall — A waterfall on the Nacaklı Stream at an altitude of about 250 metres, 8 km from the Üvezpınar neighbourhood in Termal; its pool is suitable for swimming.
  • Armutlu — A coastal district on the north of the Gulf of Gemlik, 55 km from Yalova; there are sea connections to Istanbul and Mudanya.
  • Yalova Termal Hotel — A hotel designed by Sedad Hakkı Eldem between 1934 and 1937, demolished in 1983 and later rebuilt faithfully to the original.

Practical Information for Visiting Armutlu

Suggested time
1–2 days
Best time to visit
Year-round (thermal baths in any season, the coast in summer)
Places to visit
3 places

What to Eat in Armutlu

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  • Marmara Fish

    Fish caught in the Sea of Marmara are served fresh in Armutlu's seaside restaurants.

  • Olive Oil Dishes

    Dishes prepared with olive oil from Armutlu's olive trees reflect the flavours of Aegean and Marmara cuisine.

Culture, Local Products and Economy of Armutlu

  • Thermal and Seaside Culture

    With its thermal springs and seaside location, Armutlu has a dual cultural identity linked to both health tourism and sea tourism.

Local Products

  • Olives and Olive Oil — Olive oil made from olives grown in Armutlu's mild climate is a well-known product in the region.

Economy

Armutlu's economy rests on tourism and agriculture. Thermal tourism and summer tourism are important sources of income. Olive and chestnut production form the basis of agriculture.

How to Get to Armutlu

Armutlu is 55 km from Yalova city centre. Transport is by road. There are regular minibus services from Yalova.

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Armutlu: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to see in Armutlu?

The highlights of Armutlu are 3 places: Armutlu Thermal Baths, Hacı Ali Paşa Mosque and Bülbül Stream.

What should I eat in Armutlu?

Marmara Fish and Olive Oil Dishes are the standout flavours on Armutlu's tables.

What is Armutlu famous for?

Armutlu is known for its Olives and Olive Oil and its Thermal and Seaside Culture. Olive oil made from olives grown in Armutlu's mild climate is a well-known product in the region.

How do I get to Armutlu?

Armutlu is 55 km from Yalova city centre. Transport is by road. There are regular minibus services from Yalova.

How much time should I allow for a visit to Armutlu?

Suggested visit length: 1–2 days. Best time to visit: year-round (thermal baths in any season, the coast in summer).

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