Turkey's
regions of Fethiye, Antalya, Epheseus and Kusadasi offer a range of stunning stretches
of sand and clear waters, perfect for any relaxation-seeking holiday goer. But
it's not just their seclusion that attracts visitors; their breathtaking views
and the promise of challenging mountainside climbs keep Turkey's beaches buzzing
with tourists. They are also close to some of the richest and most renowned historical
monuments and ancient ruins in the country.
In tourist
hot-spot Fethiye, a must-see is Patara beach at the southern tip of the region.
A long beach, at 50 metres wide and 20 km long, it is charmingly chilled and the
atmosphere laid-back. The nearby location of the Patara archaeological ruins -
a great site to visit for a taste of the region's urban history - means that restrictions
have been imposed on the construction of new buildings to block the encroachment
of metropolitan development. The limited accommodation in Patara village means
that you must make sure to make enquiries in advance.
Also
in Fethiye is Olu Deniz, central to which is a post-card perfect blue lagoon,
great for swimming and snorkelling. It's the surrounding environs of Olu Deniz,
however, that increase the value of its appeal. Here you can paraglide from the
adjacent mountain, trek along the Lycian way, take a boat trip and dive into the
Mediterranean. You can also see historical statues such as Xanthos, Tios and Latoon.
Be aware that as one of the touted beaches in the country, Olu Deniz can get uncomfortably
crowded, so try to avoid a trip in peak season.
The
highlight of Antalya, a coastal city that sits to the southwest of Turkey, is
Olimpas bay. Small and private, this beach is backed by a pine forest blanketing
the bay's back valleys, which is ideal for earthy wanderings and hikes in the
haven of shade. What's more, the forest here contains marble temples and ancient
roman ruins, allowing you to combine relaxation with an experience of the variegated
nature of Turkey's cultural past and historical becoming.
Lastly,
the flame of natural fire that has burned incessantly for centuries in the middle
of the forest, and which is called the 'Chimera' in Turkey, gives the area its
primeval, mysterious feel. You'll be hard pressed to come across an area with
such an exciting mix of contrasting attractions.
Finally,
in Kusadasi, a resort town in the province of Aydin, 90 km south of Izmir and
near to the city of Ephesus, boasts 'Kalamaki', the Kusadasi National Park.
Here,
dense pine trees are scattered jigsaw-like over the hillsides and there are a
variety of picturesque beaches on which to read and relax. The first you come
across is an un-crowded bay with clean white sand, picnic tables and hygienic
showers; the second and third are pretty grey-pebble beaches lined with deck chairs
and umbrellas that can be hired for maximum comfort and reasonable cost.
Helpfully,
'dolmuses', the Turkish name for long-distance buses, and taxis run frequently
from the town of Selcuk to any beach at which you want to go, and will arrange
to pick you up later that day if you wish.
To get to Turkey
itself, try CheapFlights.co.uk, for cheap
flights to Turkey pooled from the Internet; it's a good start to getting an
airline deal.
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