The city of Bursa, located at the foothills of Mount Uludag, is considered one of Turkey's most attractive tourist destinations with its rich history, unique nature, and vibrant cultural atmosphere. In particular, its healing thermal springs, famous ski resorts, and unique gastronomy further enhance the city's charm.
Bursa will host the ninth season of the Uludag Premium Ultra Trail, one of Turkey's most competitive mountain ultramarathons, from July 17 to 19. Unlike many mountain ultramarathons held in remote areas, this competition is organized in a very convenient location for participants — just two hours from Istanbul and 30 minutes from the center of Bursa.
This year's race will be held under the motto "A Dream of Running in Uludag!" It is expected to bring together nearly 3,000 athletes from 25 countries. Professional and amateur runners from Turkey and various countries around the world, including Germany, Great Britain, the USA, Canada, France, Poland, Sweden, Iran, Georgia, Switzerland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Romania, and Norway, will gather in Bursa to test their limits on the challenging mountain trails of Uludag.
The race routes pass through Bursa's most famous natural and cultural monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Cumalikizik, Saitabat Waterfall, Zeyniler Village, glacial lakes, and the summit of Uludag at an altitude of 2543 meters. The race routes cover diverse natural landscapes ranging from technically challenging narrow paths to alpine meadows rich in rare endemic plants.
The 9th Uludag Premium Ultra Trail competition will feature five routes suitable for runners of various levels of preparation:
• UPUT70K — 70 km / 3600 m elevation gain: for those wishing to conquer the summit;
• UPM42K — 42 km / 2353 m elevation gain: a marathon distance where history and nature harmonize;
• UPE30K — 30 km / 1510 m elevation gain: for those wanting to enjoy technically challenging trails;
• UP16K — 16 km / 500 m elevation gain: an opportunity to experience the thrill of a race in the lap of nature;
• UP6K — 6 km / 210 m elevation gain: a nature run open to all participants.
This year's updated 70K route will take runners to the summit of Uludag for the first time. Participants in the 42K category will experience the racing atmosphere in the mountain's minor peak area. Additionally, the "Kids Run" will be one of the most colorful moments of the event, bringing a festive spirit and lively mood to the race days.
Bursa: A harmony of history, nature, and taste
Bursa is one of the charming cities that harmonizes history, nature, and gastronomy. The Grand Mosque, Green Mosque and Tomb, Koza Han caravanserai, historical bazaars, Ataturk House Museum, the well-preserved Ottoman-era houses of Cumalikizik village, and the ancient Inkaya plane tree are among the city's must-see landmarks.
The city of Iznik near Bursa also deserves special attention. The Hagia Sophia Mosque, traditional tile workshops, and recreation areas along Lake Iznik further enhance the city's tourism significance. The visit of Pope Leo XIV to ancient Nicaea — modern-day Iznik — on November 28, 2025, once again demonstrated the historical importance of the city.
The Uludag region is recognized as an important center of biodiversity. There are 791 plant species found here, 108 of which are endemic. The region also hosts plant species that are globally endangered and in need of conservation in Europe. Three rare butterfly species live here.
Bursa is also famous for its historic Turkish baths and local dishes. Iskender kebab, candied chestnuts, and tahini pita are considered symbols of the city's gastronomy. Gemlik olives and Bursa silk products stand out among the region's traditional goods.
