Whether you prefer idyllic fishing harbours, popular holiday villages or the remains of ancient civilizations attesting to more than 5,000 years of history, culture and mythology, this region offers a holiday with something for nature lovers, sun worshippers, photographers, sports enthusiasts, sailors and archeologists. Along the whole length of the coast, accommodation to suit every taste and price range can be found.

Known in Turkish as "Beautiful Izmir" the city lies at the head of a long and narrow gulf furrowed by ships and yachts. The climate is mild and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breezes temper the sun's heat. Behind the palm-lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains. Izmir is the third largest city in Turkey and its port is second only to Istanbul. A cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy during the international Arts Festival (June/July) and the International Fair (August/September).

The original city was established in the third millennium B.C. (at present day Bayrakli), at which time it shared with Troy the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia. By 1500 B.C. it had fallen under the influence of the Central Anatolian Hittite Empire. In the first millenium B.C. Izmir, then known as Smyrna, ranked as one of the most important cities of the Ionian Federation. During this period, one of the city's most brilliant, it is believed that Homer resided here. Lydian conquest of the city, around 600 B.C., brought this period to an end. Izmir remained little more than a village throughout the Lydian and subsequent sixth-century B.C. Persian rule. In the fourth century B.C. a new city was built on the slopes of Mt. Pagos (Kadifekale) during the reign of Alexander the Great. Izmir's Roman period, beginning in the first century B.C., was its second great era. Byzantine rule followed in the fourth century and lasted until the Seljuk conquest in the 11th century. In 1415, under Sultan Mehmet Celebi, Izmir became part of the Ottoman Empire.

SHOPPING

In the streets of the Kemeralti Market area, it is possible to find fascinating antiques, both fine and fun jewelry, a great variety of clothing, and the dried figs and raisins for which Izmir is famous. The fish restaurants in this colorful area serve up the local specialities of tranca and cipura, two types of sea bream. The best modern and most elegant shops are on the Kordon Promenades in Alsancak and Karsiyaka and on Cumhuriyet Avenue and in Passport.

PLACES OUTSIDE IZMIR

Balcova, on the road to Cesme, is one of Turkey's largest thermal spas, with excellent facilities for guests. Camalti, 15 km west of Karsiyaka, is an area of coastal marshes and salt fields that is preserved as an important bird sanctuary the - Izmir Bird Paradise. Enthusiasts can spot many species, including flamingoes and pelicans.

The Yamanlar Camligi, a pine forest near the lovely Lake Karagol 40 km northeast of Karsiyaka, is a popular picnic spot that also has restaurants and a swimming pool. A Hittite bas-relief is carved into the rock at Kemalpasa (20 km from Izmir) in the Karabel Pass.

Belkahve, the highest point above Izmir, overlooks the Gulf of Izmir and is a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee. Formerly a favorite haunt of Ataturk's, it is now the site of the largest statue in his honor. In the village of Birgi is the Cakir Aga Mansion, a fine example of traditional Turkish architecture. The cities of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, mentioned by St. John in the Book of Revelation, are all found in Turkey: Efes (Ephesus), Izmir (Smyrna), Bergama (Pergamum), Akhisar (Thyatira), Sart (Sardis), Alasehir (Philadelphia), and Eskihisar (Laodicea). Tours of one to four days can be arranged to see several or all of the churches.

The Cesme Peninsula, lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea, lies west of Izmir. The name "Cesme" meaning fountain, refers to the many springs found in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of Turkey's most beautiful coastal stretches surrounded by clear blue sea, with a landscape of aniseed, sesame and artichoke fields dotted with fig and gum trees. In the unspoiled bays you can swim in absolute peace. Visitors will find excellent holiday accommodation, restaurants, and sports and entertainment facilities. A 14th-century Genoese fortress, restored and enlarged by the Ottomans in the 16th century, dominates the small port of Cesme 80 km from Izmir. Today the town is a popular holiday resort with excellent accommodations and restaurants. The 16th-century caravanserai near the fortress, built by Suleyman the Magnificent, has been converted into a hotel, while the 19th-century Church of Hagios Haralambos has been restored as the Emir Caka Art Gallery. Thermal baths offer a health-oriented escape from modern life. Excellent shopping for the finest quality carpets, leather goods, as well as souvenir items is also possible. At night, a lively, fun atmosphere pervades the town, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars and discos along the promenade. Cesme hosts an annual International Song Contest in the summer. Yachts can be hired to explore the peninsula's splendid coastline. Also, ferries make the run from "Cesme" to Venice on a weekly basis.

The very popular holiday center of Ilica boasts an excellent white sandy beach and the outstanding facilities of the Altin Yunus Marina and Holiday Complex. The bay here is ideal for water sports, especially windsurfing and sailing. The thermal baths around Ilica are very popular, the best being located on Sifne Bay. Pasa Limani (Pasha Harbor) also has a campsite which offers comfortable facilities. In Ilica Bay, the colorful International Cakabey Optimist Yacht Race is held every year in July.

Ildiri, a quiet seaside village 20 km northeast of "Cesme" was ancient Erythrai. Those who climb up to the Acropolis at dusk are rewarded with a beautiful sunset over the bay and islands. Nearby Gerence Gulf is a pristine inlet northeast of the Cesme Peninsula which can be reached by yacht or car. The natural surroundings are relaxing while the bay is ideal for water sports. In Dalyan, a fishing village built on a sheltered deep water inlet just north of "Cesme" some of the region's best fish restaurants border the quay of the lively marina.
Tourists are attracted by the variety of accommodations at Ciftlik and by a long, sandy beach (Pirlanta Plaj), just outside the town to the southwest. Tursite camping facilities are available to the south, and nearby is one of the area's best beaches, the Altinkum Plaj (Golden Sand Beach).
Windmills, some of which have been converted into attractive restaurants, dot the hill above Alacati, a delightful and typical Aegean town. Alacati lies to the south inland from Ilica and the coast. A couple kilometers to the south is a good beach. Many lovely bays along the coast southeast of the town are accessible only by yacht, ensuring peaceful and relaxing anchorage in this popular sailing region.

Known in ancient times as Clazomenae, Urla Iskelesi offers a marina as well as plentiful accommodation in all price ranges. Restaurants on the top of Guvendik hill afford a marvelous view of the bay and its islands. The prosperous little fishing village of Cesmealti is notable for its simple yet excellent fish restaurants.

As you drive along the panoramic coastal road of Karaburun Peninsula you pass several peaceful bays and quaint fishing villages: Balikliova, Mordogan and Karaburun among others. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels, tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water. From Manastir Mountain, you can enjoy an unforgettable view of the Karaburun coast, the Foca coastline opposite, and the entrance to the Gulf of Izmir. On the southern side of the Cesme Peninsula, near the town of Seferihisar, is the small picturesque marina of Sigacik. This important yachting center is surrounded by fortifications dating from the Genoese period and is a good point from which to visit the Temple of Dionysus at the ancient site of Teos as well as lovely Akkum beach.

South of Akkum, the New Neptune Holiday Village has windsurfing and diving schools and it is the best area for these sports. Also in the Torbali area, between the villages of Ozbeykoy and Yenikoy lie the ruins of an ancient metropolis.
Gumuldur has excellent tourist facilities beautiful beaches, restaurants and hotels. Near Ahmetbeyli (Claros) to the east, stands the Apollo Temple and the remains of the colossal statue of Apollo. Here you can also enjoy a good fish dinner or a swim at the town's wide beach. A winding panoramic coastal road leads from Ahmetbeyli south to Pamucak beach.

THE NORTH AEGEAN

The ancient Phocaea, Foca, once formed part of the Ionian Federation. Today it is a modem lively holiday town on two deep bays. The pleasant accommodations, clean beaches and inviting restaurants make it an attractive holiday spot. Those seeking the perfect tan can find it on the natural rock terraces of the Siren Islands.
Bergama (Pergamum or Pergamon), once a great center of culture, survives as one of Turkey's finest archaeological sites. In the Acropolis, above the modern town, are the remains of the celebrated library, a steep and impressive theatre, the temples of Trajan and Dionysus, the monumental altar of Zeus, the sanctuary of Demeter, a gymnasium laid out on three terraces and the Agora. The Asclepion, located to the southwest of the lower city, was a sanctuary dedicated to the god of health, Asclepics. In town is the Archaeological and Ethnographical Museum and nearby is the site of a temple dedicated to Serapis, the god of the lower world who was also worshiped in Egypt as Osiris. The temple was subsequently converted by the Byzantines into a basilica.

Dikili, frequented by cruise liners bringing visitors to Pergamon, is Bergama's harbor town set in a relaxing atmosphere with many pleasant restaurants lining the Kordon Promenade. Stop at the little port of Candarli, the ancient Pitane, to see the Genoese fortress there, one of the best preserved in Turkey.

Ayvalik is a charming port, situated amid beautiful pine woods. Nearby, the Seytan Sofrasi (Devil's Table) offers a splendid panorama of the archipelago along the Gulf of Ayvalik and the little island of Alibey (Cunda), where there are pleasant seafood restaurants. Sarimsakli Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
The Gulf of Edremit, also known as the Olive Riveria, has a number of charming seaside resorts: Kucukkuyu, Altinoluk, Akcay (a thermal center with numerous springs), Edremit, and Oren. All have beautiful beaches, together ringing the Gulf of Edremit and offering visitors a wide choice of hotels and guest houses with views of the sea. Here also is situated the beautiful Kaz Dagi National Park, with magnificent landscapes, restful green areas and several hot springs. According to mythology it was in this area that the world's first beauty contest was held. Under the shadow of Kaz Dagi (Mt. Ida, 1774 meters) in Pinarbasi, west of Akcay, Paris gave the golden apple to Aphrodite in the famous "Judgement of Paris."

BEHRAMKALE (ASSOS)

Assos, the famous teaching center of antiquity is 87 km south of Canakkale in Ayvacik County. Aristotle, Plato's most famous student, was invited to Assos and spent over three years living and teaching there. He married the niece of Hermeia, founded a school of philosophy and conducted his early exploratory work in zoology, biology and botany.

The acropolis of Assos (Behramkale) is 238 meters above sea level. The Temple of Athena was constructed on this site in the 6th century B.C. This Doric temple is being restored to its former glory and role as guardian of the Biga Peninsula and Gulf of Edremit. Linger to see the moonlight scattered through the temple ruins, or rise early for the gently awakening dawn over the acropolis. From the top you can take in the magnificent vista of the Gulf of Edremit and appreciate why this heavenly location was chosen. On the terraces descending to the sea are agoras, a gymnasium and a theatre. From the northern corner of the acropolis, you can see a mosque, bridge and a fortress, all built in the 14th century by the Ottoman Sultan Murat I. Down below lies a tiny and idyllic ancient harbor Assos has gained the reputation of being the center of the Turkish art community with it, lively, friendly and bohemian atmosphere. This may be the holiday you will remember for years to come. Twenty-five km west of Behramkale, in the village of Gulpinar is the ancient city of Chryse where the 2nd-century B.C. temple of Apollon Smintheus is located. Babakale, a scenic village of houses terraced on a cliff which drops to the sea is 15 km west of Gulpinar on an unmarked road that follows the jagged coastline.

The city of Canakkale lies at the narrow, 1,200 meter entrance to the Canakkale Strait (the Dardanelles) that connects the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean. Passenger and car ferries run daily between Canakkale on the Asian side and Eceabat and Kilitbahir on the European side. Yachts navigating the straits stop at the well-equipped Canakkale Marina to allow tourists more time in the area. Hotels, restaurants and cafes along the promenade offer a place to enjoy the traffic in the harbor, as well as a view of the Kilitbahir Fortress and the Canakkale Archaeological Museum.

In 1451, Sultan Mehmet II, later the conqueror of Istanbul, built one fortress on the European side of the Canakkale Strait at Kilitbahir and one on the opposite shore at Cimenlik to control the passage of ships through the strait. Today the Cimenlik fortress serves as a military museum dedicated to the World War I Battle of Canakkale.

Gelibolu Peninsula Historical National Park was established to honor the 500,000 soldiers who gave their lives on Gelibolu, also known as Gallipoli. In 1915, Mustafa Kemal, commander of the Turkish army, led a successful campaign to drive out allied powers from the area. The park includes memorials, monuments, cemeteries, the natural beauty of the Ariburnu Cliffs and Tuz Golu (Salt Lake). The beauty of the green hills, sandy beaches and blue waters provides an honorable resting place for the soldiers who bravely fought and died in this historic battle. You cannot help but sense the heart of the Turkish nation in the patriotic spirit of the place.

Homer immortalized Truva (Troy) in his stories of King Priam, Hector, Paris and the beautiful Helen. Archaeological excavations have revealed nine separate periods of settlement including ruins of city walls, house foundations, a temple and a theatre. A symbolic wooden Trojan horse commemorates the legendary war. The ancient harbor of Alexandria-Troas was built in the 3rd century B.C. St. Paul passed through twice, and then on his third missionary journey, he continued on to Assos. As you approach Bozcaada Island, the Venetian castle commands your attention. Then your eyes are drawn to the glistening white houses and the restaurants and cafes which line the promenade. Wine seems as plentiful as water on this island; a tour reveals many vineyards and wine cellars. There are good, sandy beaches at Ayazma, Poyraz and Igdelik. The largest of the Turkish islands, Gokceada is ringed with pristine bays. Its hills, covered with the greens of pine and olive trees, are dotted with sacred springs and monasteries. Regularly scheduled ferry boats make the trip from Canakkale and Kabatepe. In August, islanders and tourists gather for colorful local fairs.

Back along the coast, Kusadasi, or Bird island, is a lovely port built along the shores of a glittering bay. The terraced town overlooks the most beautiful inlet of the Aegean and seems to have been created purely for the delight of the holiday-maker. Be sure to visit the famous and popular Kus shopping center in the Kaleici quarter, where there is also all night entertainment. A large, modern marina facilitates life for visiting yachters. The Tusan-Kustur Beach, north of Kusadasi is one of the cleanest beaches. 23 km south of Kusdasi is the charming holiday-resort town of Guzelcamli. West of Guzelcamli and 30 km from Kusadasi, is the Dilek Peninsula National Park, a must for those with the time. Here amidst incredibly beautiful surroundings are some of the most wonderful views and some of the rarest wild animals in Turkey, including the Anatolian cheetah and some of the last wild horses. The park is a wildlife preserve and a haven for many species of animals and birds.

The exquisite Menderes River valley, known in the West as the Meander, has been the cradle of many civilizations. Set amidst pine, olive and oleander trees, the magnificent Lake Camici (Bafa) is a lovely place for a stop. Tourists can choose between guest-houses or campsites. To the east of the lake rise the five peaks of the Besparmak Mountains (Latmos). The Iconoclastic priests who came here from Constantinople to live, built monasteries, churches, and chapels around the base of the mountains and on the lake's islands. The ruins of the ancient city of Heraklia lie close to the lake, while the remains of Alinda are found on the eastern slopes of the Besparmak Mountains. The valley has witnessed the rise and fall of several great cities, notably Priene, Miletus, Didyma, Aphrodisias, and Hierapolis. This peaceful national reserve is an excellent place for bird-watchers, hikers, nature-lovers and photographers.
Gullubahce (Priene) was one of the most active ports of the Ionian Federation. The grid-like system of streets introduced in the fourth century B.C. by Hippodamos of Miletus is a superb and early example of town planning.

Milet (Miletus), like Priene, was a great Ionian port as well as the birthplace of several philosophers and sages. The theater itself justifies a visit. Also be sure to see the well-preserved ruins of the Faustina baths and the Archaeological Museum.

MUGLA

The province of Mugla includes the popular holiday cities of Bodrum, Marmaris, Datca, Koycegiz and Fethiye. Beautiful resorts, comfortable hotels and motels, cozy guest houses, impressive ruins of past civilizations and magnificent landscapes offer holiday- makers plenty of choice. Mugla, the province's capital, lies inland and is known for its traditional architecture. In the village of Ozluce, a veritable open-air museum east of Mugla, is Turolian Park, where you can find fossils that geologists claim are from 5 - 9 million years old.

An impressive medieval castle built by the Knights of Rhodes guards the entrance to the dazzling blue bay of Bodrum, where the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas meet. This charming town attracts a diverse population of vacationers who stroll along its long, palm-lined waterfront, while elegant yachts crowd the marina.
Not far from town, you can swim in absolutely clear, tideless, warm seas. Underwater divers, especially, will want to explore the numerous reefs, caves and majestic rock formations. The waters offer up multicolored sponges of all shapes and sizes, and an immense variety of other aquatic life, including octopus. The reputation of Bodrum's boat yards dates back to ancient times. Today, craftsmen still build traditional boats: the tirhandil with a pointed bow and stern, and the gulette with a broad beam and rounded stern. The latter are especially used for excursions and pleasure trips, and in the annual October Bodrum Cup Race.

The yearly throng of visitors has encouraged small entrepreneurs to make shopping in Bodrum a delight. Leather goods of all kinds, natural sponges and the local blue glass beads are among the bargains to be found in the friendly little shops along the narrow, white- walled streets. Charming boutiques offer kilims, carpets, sandals and embroidery as well as original fashions in soft cotton fabric.
Bodrum has gained the reputation as the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. This community has encouraged an informal day time life style and a nightlife full of excitement. The evenings in Bodrum are for sitting idly in one of the many restaurants, dining on fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties. Afterwards, daytime night clubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn.
Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, was the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of the tomb of King Mausolus (4th century B.C.), which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbor, the Bodrum Castle, or the medieval castle of St. Peter, is a fine example of 15th-century Crusader architecture. It has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archeology, with remains dating as far back as the Bronze Age. The stunning panoramic view from Goktepe, nearby, is much photographed by those who visit the second-century theater there.

The beautiful Bodrum Peninsula suits holiday makers interested in a subdued and relaxing atmosphere. Enchanting villages, with guest-houses and small hotels on quiet bays, dot the peninsula. On the southern coast, Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, Aktur, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar have fine, sandy beaches (Bitez, Ortakent and Aktur are blue-flag beaches). Campers and windsurfers enjoy Gumbet, and at Bitez colorful sailboards weave skillfully among the masts of yachts in the bay. On shore you can enjoy quiet walks through the orange and tangerine groves bordering the beach. Ortakent has one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the area and offers an ideal place for relaxing in solitude. One of the most beautiful beaches on the Bodrum peninsula is Karaincir, ideal for active days by the sea and relaxed evenings with local villagers. Finally, Akyarlar enjoys a well-deserved reputation for the fine, powdery sand of its beach. Afterwards, night clubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn.

Turgutreis, Gumusluk and Yalikavak, all with excellent beaches, lie on the western side of the peninsula and are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. Gumusluk Beach is a blue-flag beach. In Turgutreis, the birthplace of a great Turkish admiral for whom it is named, you will find a monument honoring him. In the ancient port of Myndos (Gumusluk) you can easily make many friends from among the hospitable and outgoing local populace. In Yalikavak, white- washed houses with cascading bougainvillaea line narrow streets. Small cafes and the occasional windmill make it a picturesque setting.

The north coast of the peninsula Torba, Turkbuku, Golkoy and Gundogan - can be seen by road or, even better, hire a boat and crew to explore the quiet coves, citrus groves and wooded islands. Little windmills which are still used to grind grain crown the surrounding hills covered in olive trees. Torba, a modern village with holiday villas and a nice marina is located 8 km north of Bodrum. Golkoy and Turkbuku are small and simple fishing villages with a handful of taverns overlooking a lovely bay.
After a boat trip to Karaada, half an hour from Bodrum, you can bathe in the grotto where warm mineral waters flowing out of the rocks are believed to beautify the complexion.
The translucent and deep waters of the Gulf of Gokova, off the southern shore of the Bodrum peninsula vary from the darkest blue to the palest turquoise, and the coastline is thickly wooded in every hue of green. In the evening, the sea reflects the mountains silhouetted against the setting sun, and at night it shimmers with phosphorescence.

You can take a yacht tour or hire a boat from Bodrum for a two, three or seven-day tour of the gulf. The Gulf of Gulluk, and harbor of the same name, lie north of the Bodrum peninsula on the Aegean. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kiyikislacik (lassos). South of Gulluk, Varvil, ancient Bargilya, sits at the end of a deep narrow inlet surrounded by hillsides covered in olive trees.

Inland from Gulluk, is Milas, ancient Mylasa, known for its beautiful carpets - a century old tradition which continues today. The weavers rarely mind a visitor watching them at work. Plenty of old Turkish houses with carved timbers and latticed windows provide examples of the local architectural style. Gumuskesen, a memorial tomb, thought to be a small copy of the famous Halicarnassus Mausoleum, stands west of the city.

The ancients built Labranda high in the mountains as a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus. Today tourists have rediscovered this mountain retreat and escape to its exhilarating air and breathtaking scenery. Situated on a bay, backed by rugged pineclad mountains, Marmaris is one of the most attractive maritime parklands, ideal for water sports and sailing. It makes an excellent starting point for the "Blue Voyage" tour of the Aegean coastline. In May, the Marmaris Yacht Charter Show provides an opportunity to meet the yachts Captains and crews. With plenty (of provisions aboard you set sail in the craft of your choice and languidly explore the spectacular beauty of southern Turkey.

In Marmaris, sample the typical Turkish cuisine in one of the marina restaurants and drink raki, anisette, the traditional Turkish way, over ice and diluted with water. Later stroll along the brightly lit and palm-lined promenade and indulge yourself at one of the ice cream vendors. Energetic entertainment at a lively bar or dancing until dawn at a sophisticated disco can end a perfect day. There are many good buys in Marmaris boutiques,colorlul bazaars and markets.
Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia - Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Suleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built on a hill, the remains of which can still be seen today. Swimmers should not miss Ataturk Park, to the east of Marmaris, where a shallow beach, extending to the bay leads to safe waters. The clear blue sea is warm enough for swimming from early May until late September. Marmaris also has horseback riding and tennis centers for the sports enthusiast. This is also one of the few places in the world where you can delight in the heady aroma of the frankincense tree. Weekly ferry lines run between Marmaris and Venice during the summer season.

Near Marmaris at Icmeler, the hazy mountains of the interior slope down to sandy beaches. Under blue skies, the clear sea is ideal for all types of water sports. Many find this area so irresistible that they stay longer than originally planned. There are some excellent accommodations here, in which you can prolong your experience of nature. As you drive down from the high mountains into the village of Turunc, the scene opens out onto the spectacular blue waters beyond the natural harbor. The village itself is small and scattered around the bay. Most of the restaurants border the beach. A few bars and restaurants farther back from the water's edge offer fresh fish and superb views.

Kumlubuk, a turquoise paradise, lies on the southern side of the bay. On the northern side, above the water, is the ancient Rhodian city of Amos. Loryma, at the tip of the Bozburun Peninsula, where the ruins of the ancient harbor and castle remain, can only be reached by boat. Quiet, natural bays and scattered islands punctuate the northern shore of the peninsula, ideal for those who want to get away from it all.
Sedir Island, in the Gulf of Gokova, was the ancient Cedrai. Its old city walls, theater and temples can be visited by driving from Marmaris north to Gelibolu Bay and then crossing over by boat. This voyage also offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the mountain scenery across the bay. At the head of the gulf is the village of Gokova whose houses seem to cascade down the Mt. Kiran mountainside. Restaurants built over bubbling, fresh-water streams that fall from the highlands create an unforgettable setting. The towering pines and cooling breezes of Gokova Park are often a welcome respite from the hot sun.

The Datca Peninsula provides a natural boundary between the Gulf of Gokova in the Aegean Sea to the north, and the Gulf of Hisaronu in the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Along the 75 km from Marmaris to Datca, the road winds among trees and hills, opening onto lovely views over the blue expanse. Campers have many wonderful settings to choose from. Those who are less adventurous can stay in one of the many comfortable holiday villages. The beautiful blue-flag Aktur beach is 25 km from Datca. In Datca white-washed buildings hung with bougainvillaea decorate the town. The marina is on the southern bay and swimmers prefer the northern bay. Around the marina bars, cafes and a wide selection of shops keep the tourist's interest.

Some shops remain open well into the evening. Relaxing over a pre-dinner drink and then a delicious meal in a friendly restaurant is a popular way to spend the evening hours. Of course, the local eateries offer both fresh fish and classical Turkish cuisine. With any retraining energy, take a stroll and find a disco to your liking until the early morning. The Kormen Harbor, 10 km north of Datca is connected to Bodrum by a daily ferry line.

As you travel out of Datca either by road or by boat you will find unspoiled flays and golden sandy beaches. Kargi is one of the most popular.
At the end of the peninsula (38 km from Datca stands the ancient Carian city of Knidos, described by Strabo as ("a city that was built for the most beautiful of goddesses, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful of peninsulas.") Famous as a center of art and culture in the fourth century B.C. the city had two harbors: one on the Aegean and the other on the Mediterranean. The remains of a circular temple dedicated to the goddess of love overlook the two harbors. The arcaded walkway was built of white marble in heart- shaped columns. Praxiteles' legendary statue Aphrodite, one of the most beautiful sculptures of antiquity, once graced this temple.

The town of Koycegiz lies at the northern end of the lake by the same name and is joined to the Mediterranean by a natural channel. This unique environment is being preserved as a nature and wildlife sanctuary. A road shaded with aromatic frankincense trees leads to the tiny village of Dalyan on the inland waterway. The maze of channels is easily explored by boat as you immerse yourself in this tranquil dream world. The restaurants which line the waterways specialize in delicious fresh fish.
Magnificent tombs were carved into the rock high on the cliff face, at a bend in the river, above the fascinating ancient harbor city of Caunos. The Dalyan Delta, with the long, golden, sandy lztuzu beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and blue crabs. At Ekincik, a delightful yacht mooring, you can enjoy some of the breathtaking beauty of this area. Only a half hour's drive from Dalaman Airport, Sarigerme has wonderful sandy beaches, and a pleasant holiday village discreetly situated in a pine forest. The Dalaman River is the best place for rafting, the best time for it being between May and October.

The road to Fethiye winds up and down hills through a heavily forested region that offers occasional glimpses of the sea and an islet or two basking in total seclusion. The Gulf of Gocek and its friendly marina is one of the best sailing spots on the Mediterranean. Dotted with islands and sculpted by many coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The ruins of Arymaxa, an ancient city at the southern tip of the gulf, lie at the edge of the azure water. Opposite, on Tersane Island, stand Byzantine ruins, including those of the ancient shipyards.

The popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of Marmaris boasts an important marina at the head of a beautiful bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the ruins of the crusader fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the town, (called Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facade's of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. The Tomb of Amyntas, which probably dates from the fourth century B.C., is the most remarkable.

Swimmers head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometers west of town, or to Sovalye Island, opposite the harbor, which blazes with flowers in the spring.

The road to Belcegiz Bay takes you -through mountains where cozy guest houses cater to those seeking mountain scenery. Ocakkoy is the mountain village that is a must see. Stay in one of the lovely guest houses and enjoy the numerous hiking possibilities. Hisaronu, also in the mountains, has very nice hotels. Four km from Hisaronu, Kayakoy is a picturesque ghost town of old houses and churches. Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon (Olu Deniz) where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the world to do absolutely nothing except soak up the sun amid stunting natural surroundings. At Mt. Baba (1,969 m), you can paraglide into the Lagoon. For those seeking accommodations or other facilities, Belcegiz beach is recommended. Intoxicating scenery surrounds the beach and shady park at Kidirak. On Gemiler Island (St. Nicholas' Island), Byzantine ruins he tucked among the pines.

South of Kidirak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat. Beyond the idyllic beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley filled with hundreds of varieties of butterflies await the explorer. High in the mountains above Fethiye a rushing torrent cuts a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating Saklikent (Hidden City) located 44 km south of Fethiye. A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. Yakakoy (Tlos), 36 km southeast of Fethiye, is the oldest city in the Lycian region and home of the Lycian hero Bellerophon. Visitors can see the remains of a castle, agora, necropolis, theater, Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley. Two km east of the villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picnicking. Pinara, 49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city ideal for hiking where visitors can see the remains of a theater, agora, rock tomb, and baths.

About 65 km from Fethiye, to the southeast, near Kink are the ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a splendid natural setting. Letoon, nearby, was formerly an important religious center where three temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis and Apollo stood in ancient times.