Sanliurfa Tennis Experience

In Sanliurfa, the city of prophets and the land of Gobeklitepe and the pool of sacred fish, tennis turns into a delightful open-air experience under the hot sun, in this ancient geography where civilisation was born. Taking your racket in hand on this land that bears the traces of twelve thousand years of history, the weight of the past and the joy of sport unite in a unique way. This is not a course; it is a relaxed, social tennis gathering about feeling good. Our aim is not to prepare you for a race, but to help you spend a pleasant few hours in a setting surrounded by history.

Why play tennis in Sanliurfa?

Sanliurfa is a hot city on the fertile soils of southeastern Anatolia, home to one of history's oldest settlements. Its climate is dry and very hot; the summer sun almost burns, while winters are mild. So the most pleasant time for outdoor tennis is spring, autumn and the mild days of winter; in summer only the early morning or late evening hours are suitable. Modern sports facilities in the Haliliye and Karakopru districts offer spacious, flat courts. Playing near the fertile plains irrigated by the GAP project, there is a special feeling in moving on ancient soil.

The court and the atmosphere

The famous hospitality of the people of Urfa shows itself on court too; everyone who comes soon finds a friend. The courts are usually in open, flat areas; shaded sections let you cool off on hot days. The ancient light of the southeast bathes the court in a golden tone. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly; no one keeps score, everyone is at their own ease. Resting in the shade during breaks is a refreshing pause in the hot climate.

What awaits you in the experience?

A friendly companion welcomes you on court. You first prepare your body with a light warm-up, then get acquainted with the racket and discover at a relaxed pace how to approach the ball. With gently fed balls you make your first strokes over the net and naturally feel the flow of the forehand and the rhythm of the backhand. As you feel ready, we move on to short rallies, net play and simple serve attempts. Our aim is not to prepare you for a race but to let you enjoy that pleasant moment when the ball meets the racket. No competition, no pressure; just movement, laughter and a good day surrounded by history.

Who can you share the experience with?

Someone who has never played and someone wishing to start again after a long break can both join comfortably. For students of Harran University it can be a break between classes, for workers a way to shed the week's stress, and for families a chance to move together. You can come with a friend, your partner or on your own. Everyone up to intermediate level feels at ease here; no flawless serve is expected.

Best season and hours

Sanliurfa's summer heat is among the highest in Turkey; so in summer be sure to prefer early morning or late evening hours; the midday sun can be very dangerous. Spring, autumn and winter are ideal for playing all day. April and October in particular, when the weather is just right, are the finest periods for tennis.

What should you bring?

Comfortable sportswear and flat-soled sports shoes are enough; rackets and balls are provided. Because of Sanliurfa's intense heat, keeping plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen with you is very important. Ending the day with a menengic coffee in the historic bazaar or resting by the sacred pool is the most Urfa way to finish. Fill your water bottle and leave the rest to us; just enjoy tennis on ancient soil.