Turkish Coastline – The Turquoise Coast
With over 8.000 km of coastline and over 397 blue flag beaches, Turkey makes the perfect spot for beach holidays. Turkish coastline has some of the most beautiful pristine beaches in Europe, often with a backdrop of lush green forests and just a stone’s throw from an archaeological treasure. Many secluded beaches can be enjoyed by relaxed boat trips available from the resorts. Turkey’s southwestern shore has long been dubbed The Turquoise Coast.
Antalya, Turkish Riviera
The Turkish Riviera is the most stunning part of Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with its perfect sun, clean beaches, ultra luxury resorts, nature and history. Antalya is the largest city on the Mediterranean with its charming harbour. It is typical of Turkey, a thriving modern city, with a historic heart in the centre of Kaleici, within the old city walls. This area has seen something of a renaissance in recent years, with many of the wooden Ottoman mansions being restored and turned into boutique hotels. The symbol of Antalya is the Yivli Minare built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 13th century. Culture lovers will find plenty of interest in the Archaeological Museum which has artefacts fro m the Paleolithic Age right through to Ottoman times.
Antalya has a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, and the city is set high on cliffs, with many of its grandest hotels overlooking the sea on the outskirts of the town. The beach area of Lara, approximately 12 km to the east is home to the best beach in the area, known for its golden sand, which is rapidly becoming a resort in its own right. To the west, the long pebble beach of Konyaalti is also popular. Heading up into the mountains, you can make the most of the beautiful scenery by visiting the spectacular Duden or Kursunlu Waterfalls to see a completely different side to the Turkish landscape. Antalya has a large number of five star hotels, many of which have meetings facilities, and this, together with the Pyramid Congress Centre which can hold up to 3000 delegates make it a popular venue for conferences.
Patara
Another must see for any summer traveler to Turkey is Patara Beach. Located in Antalya, the Patara is one of the Mediterranean’s longest beaches at 18km in length, and under protection by the Turkish government for nesting sea turtles. Curvy, sweeping sand dunes, surrounded by ancient ruins along with stiff coastal breezes for excellent wind surfing takes Patara Beach to the top of lists of World’s Best Beaches for both natural beauty and great value.
Belek
Belek is Turkey’s premier golf resort with its spectacular long, golden sandy beaches, and a backdrop of mountains. Belek has won awards for environmentally friendly development and there are many rare species of plant and wildlife indigenous to the area. Accommodation is mostly of the five star variety with all facilities laid on including sporting and other activities, spa treatments and entertainment. Many of the hotels are also set up to cater for children with kids clubs and other facilities.
Kemer
Kemer is one of Turkey’s first multipurpose resorts, carefully planned to blend in with the surrounding scenery. At its heart is the attractive marina, a stopping off point for gulets on the blue cruise. Around it are sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants catering for the resort’s well-heeled clientele. Kemer has a clean pebble beach, but the main resort areas are on the beaches located a little further out, namely Kiziltepe, Goynuk, Beldibi, Camyuva and Tekirova. Surrounded by pine forests, they offer a range of accommodation including five star hotels, all designed to blend in to the natural environment.
Alanya
Alanya is a modern resort, famed for its beautiful sandy beaches. Its harbour is dominated by the Red Tower, which protected the dockyards in Seljuk times, the remains of which can still be seen in the waters. High on a promontory is the old fortress with its well preserved walls, towers and Byzantine church. It takes about an hour to walk up but it is well worth it for the views alone. Alanya itself has lots of blue flag beaches and has a full range of accommodation with plenty of good shops and restaurants, together with lively nightlife.
Side
The old town of Side is set on a peninsula with sandy beaches to either side, surrounded still by the ancient city walls. It boasts an impressive ancient Hellenistic theatre, the largest in the area, with seating for 17.000, overlooking the sea; a charming museum and the stunning Temple of Apollo, a romantic spot at sunset. Side has something for everyone: great beaches, history, an abundance of shops, lively nightlife and a good choice of restaurants.
Olympos – Cirali (Çıralı)
Olympos is in a charming spot set on a 5 km long beach amidst unspoilt nature, and the ruins include baths, a temple, Roman theatre and necropolis. To the north of Olympos, past the attractive beach front hamlet of Cirali, high on the hillside is the legendary burning flame of Chimera, literally burning stone.
Olympos Bey Mountains Coast National Park
Koprulu Canyon National Park
Bodrum Peninsula
Situated on a peninsula, Bodrum is one of the most chic and European resorts in Turkey, with its historical architecture, fantastic beaches, fishing villages and trendy nightclubs. Bodrum has grown dramatically in recent years with the opening of an international airport yet its delightful charm remains intact with palm lined streets and whitewashed, flat roofed houses dotted across its terraced hillsides. The views of the city are exceptionally striking against the stunning backdrop of the Castle of St.Peter, which stands formidably between the city’s twin bays. It is even more spectacular in the summer as Bodrum bursts into colour with cascades of bright pink and purple bougainvillea flowing from the dazzling white houses that line its narrow streets, winding down towards the sea.
Bodrum is also the yachting centre of Turkey and its world class marina is a favourite destination for yachts that cruise the Aegean and the Mediterranean. It is an excellent place from which to organise a sailing trip with a vast number of sailing companies who provide for all levels of sailing experience. Another major attraction of Bodrum is its buzzing cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as its wealth of trendy and sophisticated nightlife. Bodrum has accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets dotted in and around its pretty town centre, but the quietest places to stay are in the west of town and in the hills towards the east.
Gumbet (Gümbet)
Gumbet is the closest beach to Bodrum just 10 minutes away by car and is very popular with holidaymakers, many of whom choose to stay here close to the beach and venture into Bodrum at night. Its long sandy beach is lined with hotels and pensions which attract many young people and watersports enthusiasts with its large windsurfing school and diving courses.
Gumusluk (Gümüşlük)
Gumusluk is very popular for its secluded setting. It is a very pleasant place to stay with its unspoilt scenery, long sand and gravel beach and a handful of excellent fish restaurants perched right on the sea front. Also, if you walk towards the south end of the beach, you will also be able to swim very close to some of the ruins, making it the perfect spot for snorkelling.
Bitez
Bitez lies on a bay, a few kilometres west from Bodrum, attracting an older, more upmarket crowd. The gently sloping coarse sand beach has wooden piers for swimming and is lined with whitewashed hotels and resort villas, whilst also host to a popular windsurfing and sailing school. Its sheltered cove and shallow water are perfect for beginners. Backed by lush tangerine orchards, Bitez is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds.
Turgutreis
A sophisticated new marina adorns the waterfront at Turgutreis, complete with exclusive cafes, restaurants and boutiques, as well as a host of new bars and discos. Its beach is very popular with families because the sea is shallow for quite a way out, making it safer for young children. For a more peaceful alternative to the main beach, there is also a long and sandy beach near the lighthouse on the way towards Akyarlar.
Turkbuku (Türkbükü)
Turkbuku is one of Bodrum’s best kept secrets with its array of exclusive hotels, excellent sea front restaurants situated on wooden piers and trendy bars that burst into life after sunset. By day, its beach front cafes and hotels are havens for the jet set, with fantastic views of the beautiful bay and wooden platforms dotted with sophisticated sun loungers from which to swim.
Ortakent
You can reach Ortakent from the main highway west of Bodrum and it is very popular with Turkish families. Its two kilometre long beach is considered by many to be one of the best on the peninsula and is dotted with several restaurants, motels and some unique tower houses.
Fethiye Coastline
Fethiye Coastline of Turkey is one of the best coastal regions in Turkey. There are numerous lovely bays and coves for mooring and relaxing in this area. Fethiye is a traditional market town set around a beautiful natural harbour. It is a big centre for scuba diving and boats leave from here for day trips around the stunning coastline. The most popular is the 12 islands boat trip, a relaxing way to spend the day, touring the beautiful coves and islands of the Gulf of Fethiye, with breaks for lunch and swimming.Oludeniz is one of the best places for Paragliding in the world. The Dalaman river is good for white water rafting and Fethiye is also a big centre for scuba diving.
Oludeniz (Ölüdeniz)
Oludeniz Beach near Fethiye, more commonly known as the Blue Lagoon. The extraordinarily beautiful mix of deep blue and bright green hues of the Blue Lagoon is the same reason that the whole of the Turkish seaside is sometimes known as the Turquoise Coast. Oludeniz is the archetypal picture postcard beach, backed by dramatic pine clad hills, and is the view that you see on many a brochure cover. Literally translated as Dead Sea, the stunning lagoon is a protected area, ensuring that its natural beauty is preserved. There is a small entrance charge to use the lagoon beach and only non motorised watersports are allowed on the lagoon itself.
The main resort beach, which is free entry, is the long stretch of coarse sand and shingle, known as Belcekiz Beach. Most of the accommodation, built in the traditional local Mugla style, is set back from the beachfront and in the streets behind. There is a strip alongside the seafront promenade with a number of relaxed bars, restaurants serving local and international cuisine and shops, which stay open well into the night. It is a perfect family resort, great for a laid back beach holiday, with plenty of facilities but not too much development.
Hisaronu (Hisarönü)
Hisaronu is in a stunning location, surrounded by stunning pine clad mountains, and hotels are all built in the local style, low rise, mostly with rooms set in villa style blocks and decorative wooden balconies. The beach of Oludeniz is just a short taxi ride away, and the town of Fethiye is also easily reached, approximately the same distance away in the opposite direction. You can, however, easily spend your time in Hisaronu itself, lazing by the pool, and venturing out at night to sample international or local food in one of the many restaurants, and visit its lively bars playing music well into the early hours. There are plenty of shops here too, with a wider range on offer than in Oludeniz itself.
Calis Beach
The nearest beach to Fethiye is Calis Beach, a pebble and coarse sand beach in a beautiful setting, which can be reached by boat or car from the town centre. Calis Beach is all about a long stretch of sand and shingle. Gently lapped by warm blue waters, this great beach is sprinkled with plenty of comfortable loungers just waiting for sun hungry bodies.
If your idea of a holiday is lazing in the sun on a beach or by the pool, then Calis Beach is for you. The atmosphere is very informal and relaxed here, making it ideal for sun worshippers and family holidays.
Gocek (Göcek)
Gocek is popular with yachting types who come here for its excellent marina. It is a charming resort with a range of sophisticated hotels and upmarket restaurants and boutiques.
Kalkan Coastline
Sophisticated resorts providing an authentic experience, in the midst of history and stunning nature on the Kalkan Coastline of Turkey. In recent years, Kalkan has become an in spot for upmarket couples seeking a taste of authentic Turkey. Kalkan is a pretty village of stone built houses set on a hillside around the attractive harbour. Narrow lanes lead down to the seafront, packed with shops, sophisticated bars and restaurants, mostly serving traditional Turkish food, with some excellent seafood and fish restaurants on the harbour front. Most of the hotels on the seafront in this area and the beaches have access to the sea via platforms or ladders, straight into deep water.
Kalkan does have a small pebble town beach, but serious beach lovers head out by the regular bus service to stunning Kaputas Beach, approximately 6 km away, a fine pebble and shingle beach which has clear, impossibly turquoise water. Others prefer the long stretch of sandy beach at Patara, which is reached by a regular bus service. Boats leave from the harbour here and from nearby Kas, approximately 26 km away, for trips around the bays and to the surrounding islands. Kalkan has a unique ambience and is one of the most sophisticated of Turkey’s resorts, but is not recommended for those with difficulty in walking or for those with small children. The ancient sites of Xanthos and Letoon are within easy reach of Kalkan.
Kas (Kaş)
Kas is a relaxed harbour town, which until recently was relatively untouched by tourism. It is now becoming a firm favourite with older couples, who love its laid back atmosphere. Recently, it has also become a magnet for those seeking a taste of adventure, as it is a big centre for scuba diving and also offers activities such as trekking, canoeing, canyoning and horse riding. Wooden Ottoman houses, their balconies bright with bougainvillea, overhang the narrow streets, home to shops, bars and restaurants. As you wander, you may come across the ancient sarcophagus, which is a remnant of the ancient city of Antiphellos, whose well preserved theatre has also survived to the present day. There are a number of pebble beaches in the surrounding bays. The stunning Cukurbag Peninsula, just outside the town, has recently become home to a number of sophisticated boutique hotels.
Kekova
Usually reached by boat from Ucagiz, the area of Kekova, named after its largest island, is a group of islands and bays, home to a number of ancient Lycian settlements, some of which are now submerged in the sea. This beautiful spot is easily visited on a day’s boat trip from Kalkan or Kas. The most atmospheric spot is the sunken city, where ancient houses, stairs and pavements can be seen submerged in the clear waters. It is now forbidden to swim here. A boat trip usually takes in a visit to nearby Kalekoy or Simena Castle, a charming port overlooked by the ruins of a Crusader castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Patara
Patara has the honour of being the longest beach in Turkey 22 km of beautiful white sand, backed by dunes and mimosa bushes. It was once the most important harbour in Lycia, famous for its oracle of Apollo, until it silted up in the Middle Ages. It was the birthplace of St.Nicholas and it is known that St.Paul and St.Luke visited. The site is fascinating, the remains part buried in the sands, evocative and intriguing. They include an acropolis, temple, agora, theatre, baths and the magnificent triumphal arch. The beach is a nesting place for the rare Caretta Caretta turtles and access is not permitted after dark.
Loryma Peninsula
Beautiful coastline, olive groves, pine forests, friendly people, good fresh foods and delicious local wines, that could easily compete against many European vineyards. The beautiful Loryma Peninsula is one of southwest Turkey’s most scenic and least commercialised regions, barely touched by tourism. Rugged peaks and deep valleys shaded by olive groves and pine forests are punctuated sporadically by sleepy villages and unspoilt beaches making the area a paradise for those who wish to take life at a leisurely pace.
Marmaris
The town of Marmaris is located at the meeting place of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Marmaris is one of Turkey’s most popular resorts, which attracts lots of holidaymakers, many of whom return year after year. It is in a stunning setting, its geography remarkably similar to that of the fjords, with pine clad hills dropping steeply to the sea, jagged inlets and tiny rocky islets off the coast. There is also a wide choice of accommodation, from five star luxury to self-catering apartments. Lined with palms, the seafront has a typical Mediterranean feel and is a great place for an evening promenade. Marmaris really comes to life though as the sun sets. The shops in the narrow streets stay open until late and the bars and clubs are open until the early hours of the morning.
Icmeler (İçmeler)
Icmeler is a popular resort with families. It is much greener than neighbouring Marmaris, with wide streets lined with trees and a relaxed ambience. It nestles in the shelter of dramatic pine clad mountains with a wide sweeping bay of coarse sand, where all kinds of watersports are available. The waters are shallow and calm making it relatively safe for children. The views from the beach are stunning, as it appears to be almost surrounded by mountains, dropping steeply into the sea.
Turunc (Turunç)
Turunc is reached by a steep, winding road, which snakes around the mountains from Icmeler. As you round a sharp bend, you catch your first glimpse of the resort lying in front of you, steep mountains giving way to the small bay with its sparkling waters and sandy beach. Turunc is a sleepy resort, full of character.
Akyaka
Akyaka is popular with local Turkish holidaymakers. Little more than a village, part of its charm comes from the distinctive local architecture, with octagonal shaped houses with intricately carved wooden ceilings, balconies and window frames. Lying in the Azmak River Valley, Akyaka is surrounded by fragrant eucalyptus trees. The river winds down through fields to the seafront, where there is a small sandy beach and a number of beachfront restaurants. There are also a number of excellent fish restaurants on the river, and a small village centre with more restaurants and a few shops.
Datca (Datça)
Datca is set to the end of the peninsula, which stretches out to the west at the point where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, facing the tiny Greek island of Symi. It is a popular stopping off point for the gulets on a Blue Cruise from Bodrum or Marmaris, but is relatively difficult to access by road. This is a blessing for the visitors who come here for its unspoilt beauty and authentic atmosphere. It is a charming village, its whitewashed buildings draped with bougainvillea, with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants serving mostly fish and traditional Turkish foods. There are some beautiful beaches nearby including the bays of Aktur and Kargi. There is a regular ferry service to Bodrum as well as to the Greek island of Symi. The ruins of the ancient Carian city of Knidos stand at the end of the peninsula, some 38 kms away. The city was famed for its temple of Aphrodite, the remains of which can still be seen today, and was an important centre of art and culture in the 4th century.
Eastern Mediterranean Coast
The Eastern Mediterranean shore is made up of the Mediterranean’s least well-known shores and of inlets that have yet to be discovered. Eastern Mediterranean coast offers a fascinating cultural legacy, interesting sights and good beaches. This area, that has witnessed the centuries’ long adventure of humanity, has many characteristics that are bound to attract the holidaymaker. Taking a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean is an ideal way to experience many cultures and cities in one trip. The eastern part of the Mediterranean is especially diverse. Going on a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean will take you to a region of the Turkey where eastern and western cultures begin to converge. In addition, a visit to Eastern Mediterranean will include delicious food and a vibrant nightlife. You will be able to stop in ports like Iskenderun all the way to ports like Mersin, Anamur and Tasucu. These ports will allow you to experience the rich cultural traditions of the east and the West.
Mersin
Mersin, which is surrounded by orange and lemon groves, is an important port of Turkey on the Eastern Mediterranean. From Mersin, which is Turkey’s biggest free trade area on th Mediterranean, ferryboats depart regularly for Gazi Magosa in Northern Cyprus. You will not forget the taste of the fresh fish eaten at the fish market, or of the cezire and bread and pepper, among the local delicacies. Notwithstanding its modern looks, Mersin is located on the site of very ancient settlements. As a result of ongoing excavations at the Yumuktepe Tumulus three kilometers to the west of the city, various settlements going as far back as the Neolithic age have been discovered.
Kizkalesi (Maiden’s Castle)
Kizkalesi means Maiden’s Castle, the romantic name for the crusader castle floating in the blue water 150 meters offshore from this eastern Mediterranean beach resort town. This fort on a small island a little distant from the shore is considered the symbol of the Eastern Mediterranean. As for the resort town of Kizkalesi, which includes the site of the ancient city of Korykos, it is noteworthy for its beaches, motels and campsites.
Iskenderun (İskenderun)
Iskenderun, the old name of which was Alexandretta, was founded by Alexander the Great, following his victory against the Persians at Issos near the present day location of this city. Nowadays, Iskenderun is a busy commercial port. The large prawns of Iskenderun are delicious. We advise gourmets to try also kunefe (a shredded wheat and cheese sweet) and humus (chickpea puree with spices). Among local handicrafts, woodwork is particularly famous, and in particular tables, coffee tables, and chairs.
Anamur
Anamur is at a distance of 140 kilometers from Mersin, a few kilometers inland, and surrounded by banana plantations. The ancient city of Anemurium just to the west of Anamur, is located overlooking a beautiful beach and was founded during the 12th century BC by the Hittites. Its name means windy promontory. Among the ruins of the city there are the walls, an amphitheatre, an Odeon, a public bath and a necropolis. The Anemurium beach is also one of 17 Mediterranean beaches on which the famous Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs.
Tasucu (Taşucu)
With its beaches and port, Tasucu is a typical holiday resort. Ovacik, 44 km. to the west of Tasucu, is a peaceful inlet, famous for its fishermen’s shelter and for its beach. The surroundings of the Ovacik Peninsula, the waters of which are very suitable for diving, are full of isolated natural marvels. You can also visit the Kosrelik Gulf, Kosrelik Island and the ruins of Aphrodisias.
Dalyan Coast
Dalyan is a small town on the south-western coast of Turkey. Dalyan is on a river delta, its narrow waterways, surrounded by reed beds, also perfect for a relaxed family holiday. Dalyan means fishing weir in Turkish. Dalyan is just 30 minutes from Dalaman airport, and was destined to become a centre for large-scale tourism development. Plans changed, however, in the mid 80’s when it was discovered that the beautiful spit of sandy beach is a nesting ground for the rare Caretta Caretta or loggerhead turtles which lay their eggs here in the clean fine sand. Dalyan, has remained, therefore, a sleepy haven its unspoilt nature protected by strict regulations which mean that the beach is not accessible after dark. Dalyan is on a river delta, its narrow waterways, surrounded by reed beds. The small town is set to a backdrop of stunning mountains, the river overlooked by ancient Lycian style tombs carved high into the rock face. There are some good restaurants on the riverfront and the main street is home to a selection of restaurants and shops and a few bars. The nightlife is very laid back but there are some nice bars here, which are open until late. The town itself is flat and easy to get around. Close to Dalyan are the thermal springs and mudbaths of Ilica and Sultaniye, which are reputed to have many health-giving powers and are a fun and relaxing way to unwind. Recently, there have been a number of developments at the nearby bay of Sarigerme, with its beautiful sandy beach, surrounded by pine forests.
Iztuzu Beach
The beautiful spit of sand which is the Iztuzu Beach is completely undeveloped, and is reached by a pleasant boat trip from Dalyan. Boats depart regularly from the riverfront for the short trip to Iztuzu Beach, approximately 40 minutes away. It is a beautiful bar of fine, golden sand gently shelving into the sea. Since there is no development, here, however, there is little in the way of facilities so it is best to come prepared. The beach can also be reached by car. Those who stay in Dalyan have a choice of self-catering and hotel accommodation, from 4 star hotels to simple pensions. Most are built in traditional style to fit in with the natural setting, and many are set on the beautiful riverfront. Many people, however, visit Dalyan on a day-trip by boat from nearby resorts such as Marmaris and Fethiye.
Ancient City of Kaunos
Visit the ruined city of ancient Kaunos, with its impressive theatre and Temple of Apollo. The ruins of the ancient city of Kaunos are close by and can by reached by boat or on foot. It was originally on the sea, but its harbour gradually silted up and felt into disuse. It has only been partially excavated but the remains are extensive and include a theatre dating from the 2nd century BC, Roman baths, temple of Apollo and agora or marketplace.
Sarigerme
Sarigerme is this area’s fastest growing tourism center. With its back surrounded by pine forests and facing a long beach with fine sand and a clean sea, it is located only 12 km. from the Dalaman airport. Its sea, still shallow at a distance of 200 m. from the coast, can get quite warm and is a very special location indeed for families with children.
North Aegean Coast
The North Aegean coast of Turkey is beautiful, historic and agriculturally rich. Also offers long stretches of lovely, sandy, child friendly beaches surrounded by pine and olive clad hills. North Aegean Coast is the motherland of ancient civilizations with more than 9000 years of history, mythology, and culture. Make time available for wandering through it’s ancient remains, sailing, scuba diving, swimming in crystal clear waters, trekking along the hundreds of lovely coves, rafting, exploring picturesque islands, tasting fresh fish and delicious cuisine. Turkish North Aegean Coast welcomes you by offering it’s history, nature, culture, hospitality, delicious tastes, entertainment, and leisure. Turkey’s North Aegean coast sees far fewer visitors than the shoreline further South.
There are nice sandy beaches, though the lower sea temperature and lack of a major airport protect the North Aegean coast from widespread development. Most of summer visitors are Turkish and, while tourism is inevitably important to the local economy, even in August the number of visitors doesn’t match those at the country’s more renowned destinations. Away from the resort towns, life goes on much as it always has, with farming and fishing providing a livelihood for the bulk of the population. The Aegean coast of Turkey stretches from the North near Istanbul, down the coastline to the boundaries of Marmaris.
Cesme (Çeşme)
Cesme is a charming, sleepy resort town, dominated by the 14th century castle of St.Peter. It has two main streets, where shops, restaurants and a couple of bars are situated. Most of the hotels are set on the beaches outside the centre. Ilica is one of the most impressive, with its fine, white sand, and Altinkum Beach is also renowned. The peninsula has excellent conditions for windsurfing and Alacati is one of the best spots in the world. Ilica is still a popular centre for thermal treatments. Ferries run between ports in Italy and Cesme as well as between Cesme and the Greek island of Chios.
Kusadasi (Kuşadası)
Kusadasi is one of Turkey’s largest and most cosmopolitan resorts and a stopping off point for the big cruise liners. It is a good all round resort, offering great beaches, excellent shopping and some serious nightlife. Ladies Beach is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Turkey. Kaleici is the old centre of the town and is a popular shopping and entertainment area. It is also surrounded by the Dilek Peninsula National Park, which lies on the Dilek Peninsula. Another stunning spot in the vicinity is Lake Bafa.
Foca (Foça)
The resort of Foca is popular with Turkish holidaymakers living in nearby Izmir. Its historic sites include a Genoese castle and a small ancient theatre. The resort is split into two bays with beaches in each. Yenifoca is just 23 km away by boat and has even better, and more secluded beaches.
Ayvalik (Ayvalık)
Ayvalik is an attractive port, surrounded by pine forests, with charming stone houses and cobbled streets. It is popular with local Turkish holidaymakers and a great place for those who want to escape the crowds and soak up the authentic atmosphere. There are good sandy beaches approximately 6 km south of the town in the area of Sarmisakli.
Altinkum (Altınkum)
Altinkum literally means Golden Sand an appropriate description of the beautiful beach in this relaxed resort. Popular with families it has a range of accommodation and plenty of restaurants and bars for entertainment. There are lots of shops and an attractive street market in the centre. It is popular with both Turkish and international holidaymakers.
Assos
The old town and ancient city occupy a rocky peak, with stunning views of the Aegean and Greece beyond, while its harbour is one of the most picturesque to be found anywhere on the Aegean coast.
Dilek Peninsula – Great Menderes Delta National Park
Black Sea Coast
The Black Sea coast of Turkey is famous with its green forests, traditional wooden houses, extraordinary plateaus, also untouched beautiful beaches. The landscape of Black Sea Coast is a rich weave of greens, the air is mild and the sea flows milky white to deep turquoise and black under storm clouds. The all people are friendly, more outgoing than other Turkish people, enjoy life and want everyone else to do the same. The food is fresh, tasty and inexpensive. Turkey’s Blacks Sea Coast is famous with its humid and green forests, traditional wooden houses, extraordinary plateaus, also untouched beautiful beaches. The region is very mountainous and is heavily forested, while the highest parts of the mountains are covered with alpine meadows, glacier lakes and glaciers.
The Black Sea Coast is never crowded because cloud is more common than sun, and the sea water is chilly. But that is fine with the adventurous types who come here for a few days to savor its deep history, its dramatic beauty and its special cuisine. One of the most interesting settlement of the Black Sea Coast is definitely Gideros Bay near Cide. This cove, with its narrow entrance, is especially well sheltered. A tiny village with just a handful of houses adds color to Gideros. Black Sea Coast is a popular travel spot especially among locals tourist and former Russian republics. But in these days, it is home to lots of tourist all over the world. A trip through the landscape includes series of peaceful beaches along the seashore, exciting fishing villages, coves that lie along the coast, fields of tea, tobacco, hazelnut, and corn, and of course the endless rolling highlands.
The Turkish coastline is 8,333 km long and is bordered by four different seas: the Mediterranean Sea, the Black Sea, the Aegean Sea, and the Marmara Sea, which is connected to the Black Sea by the Bosphorus Strait and to the Aegean Sea. Although much of the coast has been invaded by package tourists, there are still a number of unspoilt areas where you will find ruins from ancient civilisations and a more peaceful way of life.
Seasons and Weather, Climate in Turkey
Blue Flag Beaches
List Of National Parks In Turkey
Istanbul
