Local Attractions

Phaselis

Pine forests and beautiful turquoise bays surround this well-preserved Lycian city. This is a truly peaceful place. Only half an hour’s drive away, Phaselis provides an excellent backdrop for a quiet picnic surrounded by history. Magnificent bays invite a cooling swim, and a clamber to the top of the amphitheatre offers great views. The area is under strict preservation restrictions to protect its clean, bright waters and invigorating air.

Demre / Myra

About an hour and a half drive away lies one of the most memorable local attractions; the town of Demre, known as Myra in ancient times. This is home to magnificent rock tombs and the remains of the Lycian city that stood here. Nearby is the atmospheric church of St. Nicolas, the Saint who became known as ‘Santa Claus’. This church was buried until excavation began in 1956, and contains frescos and mosaics from as early as the 9th century AD.

Arykanda

Arykanda is a spectacular Lycian city dramatically set amidst mountainous terrain. It is one of the oldest, best preserved, and least explored Lycian sites. Its citizen’s were known as hedonists, and walking around this extensive site, the sense of a vibrant, ancient civilisation is palpable. Amphitheatres, baths, stadiums, and tombs are arranged upon a series of steep terraces. On certain summer evenings, classical music concerts are given in the larger amphitheatre.

Chimera

In Turkish this is called 'Yanartas' (translates as ‘burning stone’). It is a mountain with a rich mythological heritage. Near the top of the mountain flames burst from the earth – a particularly beautiful sight at night. A great evening out to experience one of the quirkiest natural phenomena you’ll ever see. Turkish people tend to bring wine and chat the night away sitting by the fire.

Antalya

It is believed that 2000 years ago Attalos, the second King of Pergamon ordered his warriors to find him a place of beauty, saying ‘find me a place that is paradise on earth’. When he saw the area where Antalya is now, he ordered his men to build a city there. The city was then called ‘Attaleia’ after Attalos. It is situated by the Mediterranean and offers a wealth of shopping, eating and sightseeing experiences. The old town, Kaleici, is charming, with steep, cobble-stoned streets, cafes, shops and an attractive yacht harbour. Kaleici was recently regenerated and has a vibrant nightlife. It is easily recognisable with its landmark Fluted Minaret (Yivli Minare), which is the symbol of Antalya, and a lovely example of Seljuk architecture dating back to 1236.


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