With more than 8,000 kilometers of coastline spread over four seas (Black, Marmara, Aegean, Mediterranean), Turkey enjoys a number of unique beaches between mountains, cliffs and turquoise bays. Some would have hailed Cleopatra as Queen in their time, while others were mentioned by Homer.Iliad. According to the Blue Flag label, which lists clean beaches with unpolluted waters, Turkey ranks third internationally with 572 labeled sites in 2022. Here are some ideas for an upcoming beach getaway.
Iztuzu (Dalian)
A narrow strip of golden sand that forms a natural barrier between the freshwater delta of the Dalian River and the Mediterranean Sea, Iztuzu Beach is one of the main breeding and habitat areas for sea turtles (Caretta Caretta). This marine reptile, which is about 90 cm in length, is on the Red List of endangered animals of the World Wildlife Fund. To protect itself, as well as the blue crabs, the 4.5 km long beach has been classified as a natural site and has been protected since 1988. Therefore, access is possible only at certain times, only during the day.
Housing:
Midas Pension is a family hostel in the fishing village of Dalyan. The rooms are air-conditioned and a small staircase has been added to the terrace with towers to transform the river into a private pool. Look out for Lycian tombs carved into the side of the cliff, contributing to the region’s reputation. The owner offers his customers a boat ride to Iztuzu Beach. Such. + 90 252 284 21 95.
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A must-see in Dalyan, Begonville House is prized by Turks and foreigners alike for its green surroundings and keftas (seasoned meatballs) made with the owner’s grandmother’s recipe. Such. + 90 542 422 61 02.
Kabak Koyu (Fethiye)
Built on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, the city of Fethiye is full of some of the most beautiful beaches and coves in Turkey. The most famous, Oludeniz, is located in a national park on the border of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Nicknamed “Blue Lagoon”, it regularly tops the rankings of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Alas, this popularity has made it sometimes inaccessible in high season, as tourists flock to the small stretch of white sand. For a similar setting without the crowds, Kabak Koyu Cove is a great alternative. It is located in the heart of the Butterfly Valley, so named for the 105 species that thrive in this heavenly environment.
Housing:
Built above the lagoon, Kabak Avalon’s eleven wooden bungalows are a 20-minute walk from the beach. Air-conditioned rooms with four-poster beds, all with a balcony overlooking the sea (€110 per night). An ideal starting point for hiking or paragliding.
Such. + 90 252 642 10 22.
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On the pier of Fethiye Marina, facing sunset, Mori Restaurant offers huge seafood platters and fine cocktails with impeccable service. Such. + 90 252 612 50 67.
Lake Salda (Yesilova)
The second deepest body of water in the country (184 m), Lake Salda is located in the mountainous region of southwestern Turkey, more than 1,000 meters above sea level. Covered with a thin layer of snow in winter, it turns a turquoise color during the rest of the year, earning it the nickname “Turkish Maldives”. Due to its incredible mineral content, salda water will have many therapeutic properties, both for skin problems (acne, eczema) and joint and bone pain. If thousands of visitors place their towels on the white sand beaches around the lake every year, this one is also of interest to scientists. It may resemble the surface lakes of Mars…
Housing:
Salda Lake Hotel is the only establishment located on the edge of the lake. The exterior looks like a ski resort chalet, welcoming travelers all year round. The decor is basic and outdated, but the view of the lake is unbeatable. Calculate €90 per night for a double room (booking on site or online, no phone).
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In Yeshilova, the nearest town to the lake (10 km), there are only snack and sandwich shops. For lunch in a pleasant and modern setting, head to Labada Gourmet in Denizli (1 hour drive to Izmir), which serves modern and light Turkish cuisine with Lebanese influences. Such. + 90 258 240 00 40.
Cıralı (Kemer)
Lovers of digital detox and outdoor yoga sessions, this wild beach is made for you. Located 70 km west of Antalya, among green mountains, pine forests and jagged rocks, it is protected from overcrowding by tourists in a region that is nevertheless very visited. It alternates over 3.2 km of sand, gravel and gravel sections.
The clear water is ideal for snorkeling, exploring the surrounding coves or even boating. Not forgetting the Lycian Way’s countless hiking trails accessible from the beach and the neighboring ruins of ancient Olympus for exploration between the two sunbathers.
Housing:
A family resort like many in the region, Maxx Royal Kemer has managed to maintain intimacy and sophistication with its 100 to 300 m² sea view rooms. Book one of the villas with a hammam and private pool for a memorable experience. during peak season, which can accommodate up to 15 people (minimum 4 nights from €4,500 for an all inclusive stay). Such. + 90 242 813 60 60.
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Ikiz is the best place to try mezze, kebabs, pide (Turkish pizzas) and fresh fish. Don’t miss the signature dish of the house, the sea bass cooked in a clay pot, served with a salad drizzled with lemon and pomegranate vinegar.
Such. + 90 242 825 71 79.
Buyuk Liman (Amasra)
Formerly known as Sesamos and then Amastris, this beautiful port city overlooks the Black Sea in the north of the country. Mentioned by HomerIliad In antiquity, it was then a Genoese market before becoming Ottoman in the 15th century. From its white sand beach, Buyuk Lima, bordered by crystal clear water, we detect a certain resemblance to Dubrovnik (Croatia). Those who do not dare to dive into fresh water will be able to explore the surrounding nature and dig into the fascinating history of the small town.
Housing:
The Northdoor Hotel is the most comfortable property in the area. Superior category rooms (€76 per night in high season, including breakfast) and a wonderful view of the Black Sea from the pool. Such. + 90 378 201 00 12:00
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A little more modern than its neighbors, Sahil Balık Restoran offers a menu of Turkish dishes based on fresh, fried or grilled fish and traditional mezes. Weather permitting, food is served on the footbridge with feet in the water. Such. + 90 378 315 34 65.
This article was published in July 2020 and is subject to update.
Source: Le Figaro
