Who could fail to be entranced by the charms of the Turkish landscape and its enigmatic people? Over two million Brits head for this beguiling nation every summer, the majority staying in its popular tourist areas. Yet there’s so much more to Turkey than Istanbul, as charismatic as it is. Take the road less travelled and uncover some lesser known Turkish delights such as those mentioned below.
Kekova
Turkey’s myriad islands are ideally suited to sailing holidays. The tiny island of Kekova is brimming with archaeological ruins and an underwater Lycian city is a great place to start. Following an earthquake in the 2nd century the city was submerged but the tips of houses are still visible above the surface of the water and ancient stairways descend into the sea. The village of Kalekoy (literally meaning castle village) is dominated by – you guessed it – an ancient castle built by the Knights of the Rhodes which houses the smallest amphitheatre of the Lycian region. You’ll also discover a partially sunken necropolis and a sarcophagus standing out of the water. Strange but true.
Bozcaada
Nestling in the Aegean Sea is the island of Bozcaada, formerly known as Tenedos. With its blissful beaches at Ayazma, Poyraz and Igdelik, whitewashed villas and secluded coves, the south side of this pristine island is a rare Turkish delight. Bozcaada is ideally situated for a day trip to Troy, Assos and Gallipoli. Legend has it that Persian King Xerxes whipped the Dardanelle Straights from Gallipoli. If you’re wondering why, it’s because their currents disobeyed his orders and thwarted his plans to invade Greece. So that’s where King Canute got the idea from!
Kayakoy
Following the end of the Greco-Turkish war eighty years ago 25,000 Greeks were repatriated to their homeland leaving the village of Kayakoy in the valley of Kaya abandoned and empty. It is now quite simply a ghost town. An eerie atmosphere hangs over the hundreds of buildings with its poignant derelict churches and it’s believed to have been the inspiration for Louis de Bernieres’ novel Birds Without Wings. Kayakoy’s eerie silence is guaranteed to linger in your mind long after your holiday has ended.
Faralya
If you truly want to escape the cacophony of modern life then Faralya is the perfect destination. Its shops are basically shacks and there is little or no nightlife. Located on the Lycian Way, Faralya is perfect for walking holidays. Tombs cut into the rock coupled with original cave dwellings line the route stretching from Fethiye to Antalya which once linked the ancient cities of the Lycian people. Beach lovers can combine their trek with a visit to the secluded Kabak beach framed with lush pine forests and sparkling waterfalls. Residents of Faralya revel in their isolation. When the road linking their town with Olu Deniz was completed twenty years ago disgruntled villagers threw stones at the first bus they saw in protest at the intrusion! They had the last laugh however, as visitors to Faralya must negotiate hairpin bends and sheer cliff edges to reach their destination.
Borderlands, Eastern Turkey
For a rare glimpse into the Turkish wilderness, head for the eastern Borderlands. From the region of the Black Sea near Georgia, travellers can tour the Armenian capital of Ani, the ancient Sumela Monastery, Ishak Pasa Palace and dozens of remote churches and fortresses. This trail takes visitors close to two of Turkey’s borders, from Mount Ararat near the Iranian border on one side to Lake Van on the border with Iraq, on the other – feel free to take your pick!
Whether it’s culture or beaches, adventure or nightlife, sailing or walking, Turkey offers it all. If you’re visiting this year, take the time out to explore the hidden delights of this complex and intriguing land. You’ll wonder what took you so long.
Our guest author, Kate Smedley, seeks out walking holidays in less obvious places.