Small and Boutique Hotels in Bolu Mudurnu

Mudurnu is a district of Bolu, about 50 km. away from the center. It is famous for its lush green mountains and historical mansions. Bolu Mudurnu is a district worth seeing with its lush forests, cool plateaus, Abant, Sülüklü and Karamurat Lakes, hot springs, historical baths and streets. Mudurnu, which is close to metropolitan cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, is among the suitable places for your weekend visits. If you want to spend a weekend in Bolu Mudurnu, there are many activities waiting for you. You can take a walk by the lake, visit and photograph the historical places of Mudurnu, walk the streets of Mudurnu, shop in the bazaar, breathe in the scent of the historical Mudurnu hotel where you stay, and see the Mudurnu Clock Tower in the district. When you stay in Bolu Mudurnu hotel, you can get guidance from your hotel for these activities.Karamurat Lake, Yıldırım Bayezid Mosque, Şehriman Hill, Akkayalar Travertines, Armutçular Mansion and Sarot Hot Spring; among other places you should visit while you are here.

When to Visit Mudurnu?

Visiting Mudurnu in the spring allows you to experience the awakening of nature and the lush greenery in full bloom. During this period, the weather is usually mild and can be rainy, but it’s an ideal time to explore Mudurnu's historic streets and ancient houses. Summer is a very popular time to visit Mudurnu for a vacation. The weather is warm and sunny, offering a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Mudurnu's historical houses, charming streets, and surrounding natural areas attract many visitors in the summer. Autumn is another great time to visit Mudurnu. The weather is still mild, but the temperatures are more moderate compared to summer. The vibrant colors of nature make autumn an excellent time to appreciate the surrounding beauty. In the winter, Mudurnu offers a chance to enjoy the snowy landscapes and winter sports. Given that Bolu is known for its winter tourism, it’s a great opportunity to engage in activities like skiing.

How to Get to Mudurnu?

Mudurnu is located about 45 minutes from the city center of Bolu. If you prefer to take the bus, you should first get to Bolu, then use local transportation to reach Mudurnu. If you're driving, the easiest route to Mudurnu from Istanbul is via the TEM Highway. The town center is located at the intersection of three different highways. From Adapazarı, take the Akyazı Junction and head towards Ankara. Those coming from Ankara have two options to reach Mudurnu. If you come via Bolu, the route is a bit longer, but you will be on the highway.

Here are some road distances:

• Istanbul to Mudurnu: approximately 250 km (4 hours)
• Ankara to Mudurnu: approximately 245 km (2 hours 50 minutes)
• Bursa to Mudurnu: approximately 265 km (3 hours 55 minutes)
• Kocaeli to Mudurnu: approximately 160 km (2 hours 20 minutes)
• Eskişehir to Mudurnu: approximately 150 km (3 hours)

Must-See Places in Mudurnu

Mudurnu stands out with its historical and natural beauties. The Yıldırım Beyazıt Mosque and Hammam, built in 1382, as well as the Kanuni Mosque, Sheikh Ümran, Sheikh Tevfik Efendi, Sheikh Fahreddin Rumi, Abdurrahim Tırsi, Karaarslan Baba, and Davud-i Halveti Tombs, are among the must-see places. You can explore the market area and the historical hans and hammams in the center of Mudurnu. Take a walk through the streets of Mudurnu to admire the Old Mudurnu Houses, which can also be a great photography opportunity. You can also visit the Armutcular Mansion, one of the largest and oldest mansions in the area. The natural beauties of Karamurat, Sülük, Abant Lake, and the surrounding plateaus are among the must-see places. Walking in the lush plateaus, breathing in the fresh air, will surely rejuvenate you. Mudurnu also offers opportunities for spa tourism, with places like Babas and Sarot Hot Springs. Don’t miss visiting Şehriman Hill, which has become a symbol of Mudurnu. Watching the sunrise or sunset from here will offer an unforgettable experience. You can also visit the Mudurnu Castle and the Mudurnu Clock Tower. Abant Lake is another must-visit, offering a beautiful setting for a day trip. You can also enjoy a lovely picnic by the lake. Karamurat or Sülüklü Lake are additional spots to explore.

Shopping Recommendations in Mudurnu

Mudurnu Houses: Traditional wooden houses from the Ottoman period, which reflect Mudurnu’s historical character, are important objects for shopping. If you're looking for unique pieces to decorate your home or surroundings, visiting the antique shops or handmade crafts stores in Mudurnu would be a good choice.

Mudurnu Cloth: Mudurnu cloth is a local product that is handmade and of high quality. It is commonly used for products like tablecloths, peshtemals, and clothes. Adding Mudurnu cloth to your shopping list could be a wonderful idea.

Local Delights: Mudurnu is rich in local flavors. Some of the famous products include Mudurnu’s renowned village bread, organic jams, molasses, homemade yogurt, and cheeses. These can be great souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones.

Handmade Items: Mudurnu has workshops and stores where you can buy handmade products. Unique pieces like handmade ceramics, carpets, rugs, and wooden carvings are available to enhance your home or collection.

Herbal Products: The Mudurnu region is known for its natural plants and organic farming. You can find locally produced herbal shampoos, soaps, oils, and other natural products that promote a healthy lifestyle. These could be great items for personal use or as gifts.

Mudurnu Entertainment Suggestions

Historical Walks and Tours: Mudurnu is famous for its historical houses, mosques, and fountains. You can explore the area's history and culture more closely by taking a walk through the historic streets and visiting its monuments.

Nature Walks: The surroundings of Mudurnu are rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy walking in the nearby forested areas and spend time in nature.

Municipality Concerts and Events: You can attend concerts, shows, and other events organized by the Mudurnu Municipality. These events feature local artists' performances and cultural activities.

Tasting Local Delights: Experience the local cuisine by dining in Mudurnu's traditional restaurants and cafés. You can taste Mudurnu's famous village bread, organic jams, molasses, and other local delicacies.

History of Mudurnu

Mudurnu and its surroundings were under the influence of the Bithynian Kingdom in ancient times. The region also came under the control of the Pontic Kingdom. Archaeological findings from this period show that Mudurnu was an important settlement during antiquity. After the region came under the rule of the Roman Empire, it became part of the Byzantine Empire. During this period, the area had a strategic position on trade routes and remained a significant settlement during the Byzantine era. In the 11th and 12th centuries, with the arrival of the Turks in Anatolia, Mudurnu and its surroundings came under the control of the Seljuk Turks. During this period, the region became an important cultural and economic center, heavily influenced by Turkish culture. Mudurnu came under Ottoman rule from the early days of the Ottoman Empire. During the Ottoman period, the region became a hub for trade and cultural exchange, maintaining its status as a key settlement. After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, Mudurnu continued to be an important district. Today, Mudurnu is known as a tourist destination with its well-preserved traditional houses and natural beauty.

What is Mudurnu Famous For?

Historical Houses: Mudurnu is famous for its traditional wooden houses from the Ottoman period. These houses, reflecting typical Ottoman architecture, preserve the historical fabric of the region. The historical houses of Mudurnu take visitors on a journey to the past, much like an open-air museum.
Cultural Heritage: Mudurnu has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The historical mosques, fountains, baths, and other structures in the area carry traces of the Ottoman era. Mudurnu’s cultural heritage offers visitors significant insights into the region’s past.
Mudurnu Cloth: Mudurnu is also famous for Mudurnu cloth, a locally woven fabric that has been produced in the area for centuries. Known for its traditional patterns, Mudurnu cloth is used in various items, including clothing and tablecloths, and is an essential part of the region's craft traditions.
Local Delicacies: Mudurnu is known for its local cuisine. Products such as village bread, organic jams, molasses, homemade yogurts, and cheeses produced in the region form a significant part of its gastronomic culture. These delicacies contribute to Mudurnu's potential as a gastronomic tourism destination.
Natural Beauty: Mudurnu is also known for its natural beauty. The forests, plateaus, and natural parks around the area offer many places waiting to be explored by nature lovers. These areas are ideal for nature walks and outdoor activities.

Where to Swim in Mudurnu?

Mudurnu is located in Turkey's Central Anatolia region and does not have a coastline. Therefore, there are no beaches for swimming.

Best Things to Do in Mudurnu

When you arrive in Mudurnu, start your day with a beautiful nature walk in the plateaus. Afterward, enjoy a delightful Mudurnu breakfast. During the day, you can visit Mudurnu's historic mosques, hans, and baths. You can also go to Mudurnu Castle and the Clock Tower. Visiting the local hot springs will offer you a relaxing and healthful day. You can plan a day trip to Abant Lake. Walking around the lake, cycling, or taking photos will be enjoyable activities. For lunch, you can try some delicious fish. Walking through the streets of Mudurnu, you can see and photograph the historical houses. In the evening, you can enjoy a beautiful meal with local dishes. You can also visit Karamurat and Sülüklü Lake. Witnessing the sunset from Şehriman Hill is a must. If you're visiting during the first Sunday of July, you can attend the Sheikh-ül Ümran Day, a special event. In the second week of October, Mudurnu hosts the Ahilik Culture Week, which you can attend if you’re around during those dates.

Food and Drink Suggestions in Mudurnu

Mudurnu’s cuisine has been influenced by the chefs from Mengen, a town famous for its culinary skills. Mudurnu's local dishes are also very flavorful. Some of the famous dishes you can try in Mudurnu include kızılcık tarhanası (sour cherry tarhana), oğmaç çorbası (a type of soup), miyana çorbası (miana soup), sakız bakla çorbası (gum bean soup), palize (a dish made from cornmeal), ekmek makarnası (bread pasta), keşli ve cevizli kaşıksapı (dishes made with cheese and walnuts), kalbur malağı (a type of dessert), etli mantı (meat dumplings), kaygana (a savory pancake), cızlama (fried dough), kırma börek (breakfast pastry), balkabaklı gözleme (pumpkin-filled pastry), basma helva (pressed helva), depme helva (stirred helva), tırtıl (a sweet dessert), köpük helva (foam helva), korova (a kind of sweet), pestil (fruit leather), topal hoşafı (a type of compote), and bozarmut turşusu (a type of pickled fruit). In addition to these local dishes, Mudurnu offers fast food, grilled and kebab-style foods, and snack items like toast. If you visit the Abant Lake area, you can enjoy fresh fish. You can also head to Mengen to try different tastes, but make sure to try the local specialties while you're there.