Category: Destinations

The waters of Hisaronu Gulf gently touch the stunning shores that reflect the heritage of both ancient and contemporary cultures. At the extremity of the Datca Peninsula lies the historic Carian city of Knidos, which Strabo characterized as “a city constructed for the most beautiful goddess, Aphrodite, on the most stunning peninsula.” Renowned as a hub of art and culture in the fourth century B.C., the city featured two ports: one on the Aegean Sea and the other on the Mediterranean. The remnants of a round temple devoted to the goddess of love gaze down on the ruins of the two harbors; the arcade path was constructed with white marble columns in the shape of hearts. The renowned statue of Aphrodite by Praxiteles, regarded as one of the finest sculptures from ancient times, once adorned this temple. The town of Datca has emerged as a favored stop for Yachtsmen, featuring numerous vibrant seafood restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Nestled in the Gulf of Hisaronu is the tranquil Keci Buku Bay; the Bay Marina boasts abundant natural beauty, featuring the nearby mountains and forests, along with the extensive “Kizkumu” (submerged ‘pier’), a natural sand structure. Departing from the Gulf of Hisaronu: tucked within its private cove is the town of Bozburun, renowned as one of Turkey’s Gulet Building hubs. Loryma, located at the end of the Bozburun Peninsula, where the remnants of the ancient harbor and castle exist, is accessible only by boat. Kumlubuk, a turquoise haven, is situated on the southern shore of the bay; on the northern side, overlooking the water, is the historic Rhodian city of Amos. In Turunc, a natural harbor extends into a vast area of stunning blue waters.

Bodrum, located on the northern coast of the Gulf of Gokova, was the birthplace of the inaugural “Blue Cruiser”, known as the “Fisherman of Halikarnas”. It is the undeniable “hot-spot” of the Aegean Shore. This lively, musical, vibrant town, imbued with a bohemian vibe, attracts Turkey’s artists, thinkers, and aficionados of the good life. A yacht trip in the Gulf of Gokova begins in Bodrum. The clear and profound waters of the Gulf along the southern edge of the Bodrum Peninsula range from the deepest blue to the lightest turquoise, while the shore is richly covered in lush greenery of every shade. In the evening, the sea mirrors the mountains outlined by the sinking sun, and at night it glows with phosphorescent light. One of the finest harbors is the beautifully picturesque Akbuk, tucked away behind a wooded headland. The wonderful cozy eateries are just as valid a reason to stay for a delicious meal following an afternoon of snorkeling and diving. Sedir Island (historically known as Cedrai) boasts a remarkable beach with fine sand made up of fossils, along with a beautiful view of the Kiran mountains across the bay. While navigating the southern-western shoreline of the island, woodlands extend to greet the profound recesses of the bays. The rugged shoreline, referred to as the Bay of Sixty-Six Inlets, appears to have sprung from the frequently recounted stories of pirates.

Delikli Island is situated just off the coast, to the south-east of Ekincik. Sailors appreciate a shift in tempo when they dock at the island and embark on a small boat trip into the Dalyan Delta. The Delta features a lengthy, golden sandy shore at its entrance, serving as a nature conservation zone and a sanctuary for sea turtles (caretta caretta) and blue crabs. At a curve in the river, elevated on the cliffside overlooking the intriguing ancient port city of Caunos, splendid tombs were hewn from the stone. Sailing south-east from Delikli Island, you reach Sarigerme, where delightful holiday resorts are situated amidst charming pine woods. Sailors will wish to dock at Baba Island, facing the unspoiled sandy shores.

The Gulf of Gocek, home to the welcoming Club Marina nestled within a stunning pine forest, is among the finest sailing locations in the Mediterranean. Marked by islands and featuring numerous inlets, its landscapes of land and sea are captivating. The remnants of Arymexa, an old city located at the southern end of the gulf, rest by the blue waters. Across from Tersane Island are Byzantine remnants, which include the old shipyards.

Marmaris Bay has the appearance of a tranquil lake and provides perfect anchorage for yachts. The historic Marmaris, known as Physkos, played a significant role in the trade route connecting Anatolia, Rhodes, and Egypt. During the 16th century, Suleyman the Magnificent constructed a fortress on a hill located just behind the harbor; today, the remnants serve as the Marmaris Museum. Pine trees envelop the mountains encircling Marmaris; along the shore, a pale strip of sand and stone divides greenery from azure. The beach regions glisten, offering tourists an ideal chance to dive, snorkel, and swim in soothing environments. Yachts and boats adorn the coastline of this beautiful tourist destination where thousands gather to experience a joyful, self-indulgent vacation. Surfers and water-skiers will be excited by the conditions in Marmaris.

Vibrant amusement at an animated bar, or dancing until sunrise at an elegant nightclub can conclude a perfect day. Numerous great purchases can be found in the boutiques, vibrant bazaars, and markets of Marmaris. You can discover outstanding leather and suede products, copper and brass items, jewelry, and objects sculpted from onyx. Turkish carpets, textiles, and embroidery are excellent handcrafted mementos, and the region’s pine-scented honey known as cam bali is outstanding.

The Marmaris Netsel Marina, one of the most extensive and well-equipped marinas in Turkey, along with the Marmaris Albatros Marina, renowned for wintering and servicing yachts, position Marmaris as an ideal launch site for the Blue Cruise journey along the Aegean Coast. In May, the Marmaris Yacht Charter Show offers a chance to connect with the captains and their teams. With ample supplies on board, you embark on your selected vessel and leisurely discover the stunning scenery of southern Turkey. At Ekincik, a charming yacht harbor, you can appreciate the stunning scenery of this region and the warm welcome of its inhabitants.

Today, Kusadasi is a prominent vacation destination. Throughout the summer season, it is filled with swimmers, anglers, sunbathers, and tourists. Previously called Scala Nova, the town features excellent seafood eateries, cafes, lovely parks, and stunning beaches. The shopping is renowned as well; a wide range of items, including beads, bangles, leather, jewelry, and carpets, is available. The Kusadasi Turban Marina is among the most well-equipped marinas in Turkey, offering winter storage for vessels both in the water and on land. Scuba diving has gained immense popularity. The coastal nightlife is famous for its fantastic bars, jazz venues, nightclubs, and cabarets that guarantee nights brimming with excitement, fun, and perhaps a hint of romance. Nearby Kusadasi lies the ancient city of Ephesus, a significant historical site that is a must-see during any trip to Turkey. The city, with its affluence and sponsorship, backed its magnificent architectural endeavors and was devoted to the goddess Artemis. Her massive temple, reconstructed multiple times, originates in its current form from the third century B.C. and was regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

The historic theater has been revitalized as an essential concert location. Close by is the location of St. John’s Basilica and the believed final residence of the Virgin Mary. To the south of Kusadasi, the stunningly beautiful waters of the Dilek Peninsula National Park invite yachtsmen to explore its tranquil inlets and coves. Located between the southern beaches of Kusadasi and Pamukkale is the Menderes River valley (the Meander), where numerous ancient civilizations established significant settlements such as Priene, Miletus, Didyma (Didim), Aphrodisias, and Hierapolis (Pamukkale). The Temple of Apollo in Didim was among the most revered sites of ancient times. Often plundered and set ablaze, the sanctuary continues to captivate with its graceful charm. Close to this archaeological location, the stunning Altinkum beach attracts all guests and provides an excellent chance for sailing, swimming, and unwinding. This is the final stop before accessing the Güllük Gulf. This gulf can offer an entire vacation on its own, featuring four expansive natural bays along with many coves and inlets. The entire region offers outstanding moorings, and scuba divers will find these waters especially appealing for exploration. The fishing village of Güllük boasts a charming harbor along with many guesthouses and small hotels.

Cedrai Ancient City, or Sedir Island as it is commonly known, is located in the east of the Gulf of Gokova (Keramos, Kerme) Gulf within the borders of the Ula district of Mugla. It is the largest of a trio of islands filled with ancient ruins located in the bay. The ancient name of Sedir Island is Kedrae or Cedrae. It is thought that the island and its surroundings, which the local people call Sedir Island, were covered with cedar trees (Cedrus) centuries ago, so the island was called Cedrae. But today, the island and its surroundings are covered with maquis, olive and pine trees. Cedrae was one of the important cities of the Carian civilization.

In some sources, it is mentioned that the Carian king families spent their summers on this island. In the following centuries, the island was considered one of the important towns of the Rhodian peria (opposite side). Settlement on Sedir Island developed on the east side of the isthmus that divides the island into two.The city’s theater, sanctuaries, residences, harbors and many other important civil and religious buildings are located on this walled area. The necropolis area, the port and some of the other civilian structures are on the mainland on the east side of the island. The vast majority of the ruins that survive today, both on the mainland and on the islands, belong to the Eastern Roman period.

Turkish incursions into the Caria region intensified from the end of the 11th century AD, and the city came under Ottoman rule in the first quarter of the 15th century AD. With its sandy beach length of approximately 800 meters and its rich natural texture integrated with archaeological remains, the island is a first-degree archaeological site, a first-degree natural protected area and also a special environmental protection area. The many towers and city walls made of smooth cut stone, the Temple of Apollo and the church built later, the well-preserved theater, the agora and the ruins of the ancient harbor of Sedir Island are worth seeing.The beach, known as Cleopatra Beach, is under protection due to its sands consisting of limestone droplets formed in a special way.

How to Get to Sedir Island?
The closest settlement to Sedir Island is Çamlı village of Marmaris district and the fastest transportation to the island is provided from the port of Çamlı village. In addition, the island can be reached by day trip boats from the Akyaka neighborhood of Ula district.

Cesme, meaning ‘fountain’, derives its name from the many water sources found in the area. A fortress from the 14th century in Genoa, which was enhanced and renovated by the Ottomans in the 16th century, overlooks the quaint port of Cesme. In the Cesme region, the large Altin Yunus Setur Marina complex, along with the berthing sites of Ilica and Dalyan, is noted for its safety. In the town, the caravanserai built in the 16th century by Süleyman the Magnificent near the fortress has been converted into a hotel. Excellent shopping – top-notch Carpets, leather goods, and a variety of souvenir products are available. At night, a lively and fun atmosphere pervades, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs situated along the promenade. In July, Cesme’s International Song Contest attracts famous artists who add charm and excitement to the town. The area’s thermal spas, along with the natural springs situated just off the coast that mix with the seawater in Ilica Bay, provide soothing relaxation. Southeast of Cesme, beautiful coves offer breathtaking vistas and tranquil nighttime anchorages fully protected from winds and waves. Soon, you will arrive at Sigacik, home to a delightful marina tucked beneath the fortifications from the time of the Genoese. From this spot, the historic site of Teos, famous for its Temple of Dionysus, the god of wine, is easily accessible. It is also an excellent location to sample some of Turkey’s exquisite wines.