Hisaralan: Geosite, Thermal Springs and Tradition

Hisaralan stands out for a geological feature: In the thermal tourism area, living stalagmites rise to a length of 78 metres, with water continuing to flow through them. Travertines are formed by spring water, and at the Hisaralan Geosite you can observe geothermal springs emerging at the Earth’s surface. This means the focus is not only on completed formations, but also on water movement and geological processes.

Geological Formations and Nature

The phenomena can be readily distinguished: travertines are formed by spring water, while the living stalagmites are characterised by their continuous flow of water. At the geosite, you can also observe geothermal springs emerging at the surface. The stalagmites are considered the only formations of their kind in the world. Their extraordinary length and the water that continues to flow give the term “living” a tangible meaning. For a trip with children, this offers an engaging topic of conversation about formations and water; scientific jargon does not need to take centre stage.

Hisaralan is both a thermal tourism area and a protected natural area. Before your visit, check with the relevant authorities for the applicable protection requirements.

Hiking Trails and Navigation

In December 2023, the municipality reported that hiking trails had been created and signage work had been carried out at the geosite. If you are planning a hike, ask locally for the latest information on routes and trail signs.

Location, Getting There and Accommodation

When looking for a holiday apartment, it is useful to distinguish between the settlement and the thermal spring: Hisaralan Kaplıcas is three kilometres southwest of the Hisaralan settlement. It can be reached by buses on the Simav–İzmir route, as well as by village minibuses serving the villages along this route. Check schedules and connections before setting out, especially if you want to include the Kaplıca in a fixed daily itinerary. There are accommodation options near the Kaplıca; check whether they are currently operating before booking.

Local Tradition and Places of Learning

Another side of Hisaralan is represented by the traditional İbrahim-Dede-Mahalle-Hayrı. This is an annual community charitable event which, according to tradition, has been organised for around 500 years. If you would like to time your trip to coincide with it, check the current date. The İbrahim-Dede shrine is also located in Hisaralan.

The geosite has also served as an outdoor classroom for students from the Sındırgı Municipality Education Centre. The geopark area is also used by universities for academic field studies. Outdoor lessons and scientific fieldwork thus offer two different perspectives on the area’s educational value.

Formations Nearby

Water deposits have also created formations resembling fairy chimneys in the area around Hisaralan. This adds to the picture of the travertines in the thermal tourism area: both geological features point to water as a formative force, but are located in different areas.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Erdek, Döşeme, Burhaniye, Ayvalık, Çelebiler Köyü, Taylıeli, Kıranköy Köyü, Akçay.

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