Kös Thermal Springs

Kös Thermal Springs; Bingöl city center is located approximately 20 kilometers northeast, along the Bingöl-Erzurum (Karlıova) highway, in the settlement of Ilıcalar. This geothermal source is classified as a thermal tourism and balneological therapy resource based on its hydrogeological and chemical characteristics. In literature it is referred to as “Bingöl Thermal Springs,” while locally it is known as “Ilıcalar” or “Hamamlar”. Geographically, these thermal springs are situated on the valley floor divided by the Çal Stream, to the west of the Göynük Çayı valley.^【1】 Due to its accessibility via the highway and proximity to surrounding settlements, the area serves as one of Bingöl’s key recreational and health tourism centers.

^{Kös Thermal Springs (}Bingöl Municipality⁾

Thermal spring area lies near the intersection of the North Anatolian Fault Zone and the East Anatolian Fault Zone, two of the most significant tectonic features shaping Türkiye’s geological structure, specifically along the Bingöl-Karlıova fault line. Geologically, the area consists of a metamorphic series containing Paleozoic marble, schist, calc-schist, and crystalline limestone, overlain by basalt and andesite volcanic rocks.^【2】

The geothermal waters emerge at contact zones within the crystalline limestone of this metamorphic series, with their discharge point located at the area where Kös Stream exits the basin. Its geographic position deep within a valley floor has created a unique microclimate that mitigates the harsh continental climate of the region, enabling the growth of plant species such as the fig tree, which is difficult to cultivate elsewhere in Bingöl, alongside rich communities of oak, juniper, poplar, and willow.^【3】

Analyses conducted by the Department of Medical Ecology and Hydroclimatology at Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine and the Refik Saydam Public Health Central Administration have scientifically established the therapeutic properties of the spring water. The water temperature measured at the source is 47°C, stabilizing between 41°C and 45°C upon reaching the facilities.^【4】

According to balneological classification, the water is classified as “hyperthermal” (36–45°C), “oligometallic” (low mineral content, 1.6 mg/l), and “hypotonic” (50.82 mmol/l). Its chemical composition includes anions such as chloride, sulfate, silicate, and bicarbonate, and cations such as sodium, calcium, iron, and aluminum. The water also exhibits characteristics of carbonated, calcareous, and earthy bicarbonate water.^【5】

The medical applications of the spring water are categorized into two main types based on its mineral composition and thermal properties: bathing therapy and drinking therapy. Bathing therapy is used as an adjunctive treatment for rheumatic diseases, neuritis, neuralgia, sequelae of fractures and dislocations (orthopedic rehabilitation), gynecological conditions, gout, and peripheral circulatory disorders.

When used as drinking therapy, the water has been found to enhance gastric and intestinal motility, aid digestion, act as a diuretic, and promote gallbladder emptying. Additionally, its fluoride content is reported to help prevent dental caries and address dietary fluoride deficiency, while its calcium content contributes to the treatment of bone disorders. However, due to the presence of sediment, the water is unsuitable for bottled commercial consumption and must be consumed fresh at the source.

^{Kös Thermal Springs (}AA⁾

Although the use of thermal springs in the region is believed to date back to the Roman period, the first modern infrastructure development began in 1946 with funding from the Municipalities Bank, and the facilities were operated for many years under the ownership of the Bingöl Provincial Special Administration. Today, the development around the springs is structured differently on either side of the Çal Stream valley.

On the southern bank of the stream lies the Bingöl University-affiliated “Thermal Physics and Rehabilitation Center,” an academically supervised facility featuring 20 hotel rooms, two large separate pools for men and women, and five private family pools. The pool water is completely drained and refreshed each night to meet hygiene standards. On the northern bank, private sector enterprises offering motel, hotel, and pension-style accommodations are located. A more comprehensive facility constructed by the private sector in 2004 includes a 210-bed hotel, sauna, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a restaurant.

Although Kös Thermal Springs are accessible year-round, visitor numbers exhibit significant seasonal fluctuations. Tourism activity peaks between June and September, when climatic conditions are most favorable, and declines markedly during winter months.

The area functions not only as a destination for overnight tourists but also as a recreational site for day-trippers from Bingöl and neighboring provinces. Academic studies emphasize the need to move beyond the traditional “hamam” bathing culture and transform the facilities into professional therapy centers under the supervision of physiotherapists and physicians, while integrating activities such as nature walking and camping to diversify tourism offerings.