THE TURQUOISE RIVIERAAntalya is a holiday paradise in a lovely natural setting. The pine-clad Toros Mountains sweep down to the crystal clear sea forming an irregular coastline of rocky headlands and secluded caves.
The region is bathed in sunshine for 300 days of the year and is thus perfect for a lazy holiday of sunbathing and swimming, or for sporting activities such as windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, mountain climbing, hunting and spelunking. Those who vacation in March and April can ski in the mornings and in the afternoons swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean. The coast is lined with magnificent beaches lapped by clear blue waters, and surrounded by pine forests, olive and citrus groves, palm trees, avocado trees and banana plantations. Important historical sites await discovery in these marvellous surroundings, which are home to a rich variety of plant and wildlife, and which are now protected as a conservation area. Holidaymakers will find everything here they can imagine for a perfect vocation.
The Turkish Riviera is the tourist capitol of Turkey. With its wide ranging accomadition, from tourist class to deluxe hotels, the hospitable people of Antalya are always ready to welcome you.
Antalya
The principal holiday resort of the Mediterranean is the lovely region of Antalya with a majestic coastline of beaches and rocky coves where the towering Toros (Taurus) Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop. Antalya is an attractive city, at an altitude of only about 50 metres, with shady, palm-lined boulevards, a prize-winning marina and a picturesque old quarter called Kaleici which has narrow, winding streets and quaint, old, wooden houses next to the city walls. Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C. by Attalus II, a king of Pergamon who named the city Attaleia after himself, it has had a continuous history. The Romans, Byzantines and Seljuks occupied the city before it came under Ottoman rule.
PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE CITY
MUSEUMS
Archaeology Museum: With remains from the Paleolithic Age to Ottoman Times, this is one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean region. (Open daily except Mondays.)
Ataturk Museum: This museum displays objects used by Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic. (Open daily except Mondays.)
Suna-Inan Kirac Museum: This museum is connected to the Research Institute for Mediterranean Cultures.
HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTSAncient City Walls: Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C., Antalya has had a continuous history. The ancient walls flank the city and other sections of the walls are still standing near the marina.
Clock Tower: Situated by the ancient city walls, it was part of the old city fortifications in the Kalekapisi Square.
Hadrian's Gate: The beautifully decorated, three-arched gate was built in honour of Hadrian when he visited the city in 130 A.D.
Hidirlik Tower: This tower was probably first built as a lighthouse in the 2nd century.
Karatay Medrese: This theological school dates from the 13th century and is situated in the Kaleici neighbourhood. The stone carvings on the portal and mihrap (prayer niche) are fine examples of Seljuk art.
Ataturk Monuments: One of the largest and most interesting monuments is located in Cumhuriyet Square within the city centre. The other one is in the center of Vatan Square.
Kaleici Quarter: This quaint area surrounding the Kaleici Marina is full of small hotels, pensions and restaurants as well as restored houses that all help to create the atmosphere for which the city is famous.
MOSQUES
Yivli Minareli Complex: It was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 13th century. Its elegant, fluted minaret has become the symbol of the city.
Kesik Minaret Complex: A memorial to the mixed history of Antalya is the Kesik (truncated) Minaret Mosque. Formerly a church, it has seen Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman modifications.
Tekeli Mehmet Fasa Mosque: An important 18th-century Ottoman mosque situated in the Kalekapisi district, inside the city walls.
Murat Pasa Mosque: The unique tile design of this mosque built in the 16th century is of particular interest.
Iskele Mosque: This attractive little mosque built in the 19th century is situated beside the marina. It was constructed of set stone and built on four pillars over a spring.
PARKS AND NATURAL BEAUTYKaraalioglu: A magnificient view of Antalya awaits visitors here with colourful exotic flowers, vivid in the sunlight with the shimmering water of the bay and the mountains in the background.
Mermerli: Situated just above the marina at the southeast comer of the Kaleici district, this park is the best place for relaxation with a wonderful view of the mountains.
Ataturk: This park also has a wonderful view of the city, displaying gorgeous flowers and an incredible scenic view.
Genclik: Situated on a peninsula, en route to Lara Beach you can see Duden Waterfalls from this vantage point, a most breathtaking view of the falls as they cascade into the sea. Yavuz Ozcan: A peaceful respite within Antalya's city centre. This park is delightful with its pools, miniature waterfalls and beautiful fountains which display colourful lights in the evening. Recep Bilgin: This park, located not far from Yavuz Ozcan Park is situated within the city center and is worth a visit to see its architectural design.
Konyaalti Woods: Situated behind Konyaalti Beach, this park provides a nice, shady, cool place for rest and relaxation outside the city.
The Upper Duden Waterfalls, 14 km to the northeast, are unique because you can walk behind the cascade. On the way to Lara Beach, 10 km to the east, are the Lower Duden Waterfalls that plunge straight into the sea. The nearby rest area offers an excellent view of the falls but the view is most spectacular from the sea. Kursunlu Waterfalls and Nilufer Lake, both 18 km from Antalya, are two more places where nature displays her beauty.
BEACHES
Lara: This sandy beach is about 12 km to the east of Antalya city centre.
Adalar: Situated on the lower side of Karaalioglu Park, there are steps leading down to the beach which consists of little rocky islands. Beach facilities are available.
Mermerli: Situated near the Antalya Marina in the Kaleici district and located adjacent to Mermerli Park.
Konyaalti: This long, pebbled beach lies west of Antalya, where a breathtaking view of the mountains can clearly be seen.
Topcam: This beautiful beach is situated at Olympos National Park, across from Sican Island.
ART, CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
Antalya is full of exciting cultural activities and entertainment possibilities. The annual Altin Portakal Film and Art Festival held in the autumn and Antalya's annual jewellery festival are just a few of the many events available. Antalya's Fine Arts Gallery offers performance exhibitions. The Aspendos Open Air Theater is a wonderful place to see international opera, ballet and symphony orchestras. Every year special classical performances are held here as well as performances by the most popular Turkish enter- tainers. For evening entertainment, Antalya's Kaleici Marina and Leisure Centre is the best place in the city with many beautiful restaurants, cafes, bars, parks and discos in this area. Near Setur Marina, dining is available on floating seafood restaurants in an unpretentious and nautical atmosphere. For a pano- ramic view of the area there is a holiday complex and revolving restaurant, 15 km from Antalya, on top of Tunektepe Hill. One can also have a good time at the two water recreation parks Aqualand and Aquapark near the Culture Park.
A Culture, Exhibition and Congress Center was opened in 1996 in the Konyaalti Quarter. The Congress hall itself is in a glass pyramid.
SHOPPING
Some of the best shopping may be found in the Kaleici district, near the city walls. Meander down through the side streets in the old quarters where it's possible to find anything your heart desires. Old Turkish kilims, original gold jewellery, leather products, natural cotton clothing, handmade wood items as well as traditional Turkish handicrafts abound here. Ataturk, Cumhuriyet and Isiklar are the three other shopping avenues. Don't miss the colourful open air vegetable and fruit market, the place for food shopping as well as a great place for capturing that perfect picture.
MARINAS
The Turban Kaleici Marina has won several awards and is considered one of the loveliest marinas in Turkey with an extraordinary blend of ancient and modern environmental design together with numerous shrubs, trees and exotic flowers. A peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle is Setur Marina located 10 km west of Antalya, offering all types of yacht services.
GOLF
Golf lovers will not want to miss The National Golf Club in Belek which is one of the top modem holiday centers in Turkey. Belek is located 40 km west of Antalya and offers a championship 18-hole golf course as well as a 9-hole course and an academic course. This golf area is among shady pine forests not far from some of the nicest beach areas in the region.
DAILY EXCURSIONS
What could be more appealing than dreamlike landscapes, grand mountains , the magnificent colours of the sea and a rich variety of flora. Add to that the lively holiday life with the quiet of ancient ruins and you have a perfect vacaion. From Antalya there are many possibilities for day trips. The Bey Daglan (Olympos) National Park, Topcam Beach and camp grounds, at the north end of the park, are perfect for a visit, and for enjoying a view of the strangely perpendiculer Sican island the mountain resort of Saklikent, 50 km from Antalya, is an ideal winter sports center on the northern slopes of Bakirli Mountain at an altitude of 1750-1900 m. March and April are the months when you can ski in the morning, then in the afternoon go to the marina for a lunch of fresh fish, and end the day sunbathing on the beach, swimming or windsurfing- On the eastern side of Can Mountain, 30 km from Antalya, is Karain Cave, dating from the Paleolithic Age and the site of the oldest settlement in Turkey. The cave has a single entrance, lit by the morning sun, then moves into three large interconnecting chambers. The little museum at the entrance houses some of the remains, but most of the finds from mis cave are scat- tered in various museums throughout Turkey. In Duzlercami Park, 20 km north of Antalya, the deer and mountain goats are protected species. The very interesting 115-meter-deep Guver Canyon is 3 km south of the park.
TERMESSOS
Gulluk Dagi National Park is 34 km to the northwest of Antalya. The ancient city of Tennessos, set inside the park, is located on a high plateau at 1,050 meters on the west side of Gulluk Mountain (Solymos). Explore this ancient city and wander among ruins in a beautiful natural setting. At the park entrance is a nature and wildlife museum.
THE COAST WEST OF ANTALYAThis is a land of exciting possibilities and quiet nature that has some of the top holiday resorts. Whether a quiet comer or lively entertainment, the choice is yours. Each bay and cove has its own special features. Discover archaeological sites, dive into blue waters and thoroughly relax on-this Coast of Light. Rising up immediately behind the coast are the mountains of the Bey Mountain Range, which, along with the coast from Konyaalh Beach to Kirlangic Peninsula, from the National Park named for the range. This area of mountains and coast makes up the beautiful, ancient Lycian Peninsula. The history of the area can be traced back to the Neolithic Age from the settlements at Beldibi, and to the Bronze Age from the finds at Semahoyiik on Elmali Plateau where Phrygian tumuli can still be seen.
KEMER
The 42 kilometres of road from Antalya to Kemer go through spectacular mountain scenery. This resort town has been designed to blend in with the scenery and offers the perfect environment for a wonderful holiday. There is a fully equipped marina and the unspoilt bays and beaches south of the town are a yachtsman's dream. Shoppers will delight at the wonderful range of high quality souvenirs that can be bought here. There is a beach promenade on the northern part of the marina which has steps leading down from its cafes and shops dire
y to the beach. Kemer Beach is rated Blue Flag (meaning "clean beach") by the European Union. In the Yoruk (Nomad) Theme Park, overlooking a lovely bay, you can watch traditional craftsmen at work. Along the adjoining bay is a charming and delightful spot with sports and entertainment.
facilities discreetly hidden in pine groves. The colorful Kemer Carnival is held in the spring. Also in the spring are the yacht races between Kemer and Gime (in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus). Kiziltepe, Goynuk (Blue Flag) and Beldibi (Blue Flag), north of Kemer, and Camyuva and Tekirova (Blue Flag), to the south, are tourist centres that provide for a variety of activities and holiday villages all built to blend into the forest that encircles them. Of all the beautiful places in the Kemer region these areas are the favourites.
PHASELIS
Situated at the foot of Mt. Tahtali (Olympos), 15 km south of Kemer, the three harbours of Phaselis were the reason for its historical role as a commercial centre. The view of Mt. Tahtali from the south harbour is particularly spectacular. The sheltered, pebbled and sandy beaches around the bays are delightful and the waters here are calm and safe for children and young swimmers. The ruins of aqueducts, agoras, baths, a theater, Hadrian's Gate, and an acropolis underline the city's historical importance.
OLYMPOS
This ancient city is situated on the southern side of Mt. Tahtali. Whether coming by sea or land do not miss the Olympos Valley shaded with oleander and laurel shrubs and the refreshing quiet pools of flowing water. The design of the mosaics in the Olympos bath is enhanced by the play of light while a temple gate and a theatre are of interest along with the other walls and towers around the bay which date from the Middle Ages. North of Olympos, up from Cirah Beach, is Yanartas (at a height of 300 m) where, according to mythology the rire breathing monster, Chimaera, was slain by the Lycian hero Bellerophon who was mounted on his winged horse, Pegasus. Nearby you can see remains from the Byzantines who attached religious importance to the area. Tranquil waters and sandy beaches line the Bay of Cavus, situated south of Olympos. This enchanting bay is yours for an unforgettable experience of water-skiing on glassy water, for discovering the colorful marine life in waters clear enough to see to the bottom, or exploring the incredible sea caves on the northern shore.
FINIKE
This town surrounded by citrus trees and gardens is a port of entry into Turkey lying to the west of Olympos. A sandy beach stretches to the east, and to the west are rocky bays and coves. Limyra, an ancient city of Lycia, is 10 km from Finike via Turuncova. On the south side of the acropolis is the Pericles Mausoleum Monument. Decorated with caryatids of the 4th century B.C., it is not to be missed. City walls and a theatre are also of interest.
ARIKANDA
Along a mountain road of unsurpassed beauty, about 32 km from Finike, is the rum off for the Lycian city of Arikanda. Set high on the mountain side with plenty of fresh air and cool water, it is no wonder such a place was chosen. In the extensive ruins, the agora, theater, stadium, bouleuterion and water system are of interest. Memorial graves are set in the hillside while an ancient bath and gymnasium over- look one of the most beautiful valleys.
DEMRE (KALE)
This site is the ancient Myra (25 km to the west of Finike) and it is best known for St, Nicholas, the bishop of this Mediterranean city during the 4th century, who died here in 342 A.D. Every year in December the St. Nicholas Commemoration Ceremony is held, attracting many tourists who spend their Christmas holiday on the sunny coast of ancient Lycia. In ancient Myra, many rock tombs overlook the splendid theater. Dalyanagzi, the ancient harbor of Andriace, 6 km west of Demre, is perfect for swimming as well as relaxing on the sandy beaches.
KEKOVA
An hour from Dalyanagzi by sea, especially enjoyable for yachtsmen, is the island of Kekova, "home of the sun." Kekova is also the name for this entire area of picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient cities. These bays provide natural harbours in all seasons and here, too, nature is joined by history to cre- ate a harmony rarely seen, Geological shifting along the northern shore of Kekova Island (Apollonia) over the years has caused some of the ancient structures to sink under the clear water, creating a sunken city. A bird's eye view of the whole scene of bays, inlets, islands, and yachts sailing peacefully on the smooth water can be seen from the Kalekoy Castle (Simena). The colors of a Van Gogh painting and orange sunsets, together with starry, starry nights, peace and tranquility, playful dolphins, mythological mysteries, and the sparkling sea - Kekova provides all this and more.
The region is bathed in sunshine for 300 days of the year and is thus perfect for a lazy holiday of sunbathing and swimming, or for sporting activities such as windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, mountain climbing, hunting and spelunking. Those who vacation in March and April can ski in the mornings and in the afternoons swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean. The coast is lined with magnificent beaches lapped by clear blue waters, and surrounded by pine forests, olive and citrus groves, palm trees, avocado trees and banana plantations. Important historical sites await discovery in these marvellous surroundings, which are home to a rich variety of plant and wildlife, and which are now protected as a conservation area. Holidaymakers will find everything here they can imagine for a perfect vocation.
The Turkish Riviera is the tourist capitol of Turkey. With its wide ranging accomadition, from tourist class to deluxe hotels, the hospitable people of Antalya are always ready to welcome you.
Antalya
The principal holiday resort of the Mediterranean is the lovely region of Antalya with a majestic coastline of beaches and rocky coves where the towering Toros (Taurus) Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop. Antalya is an attractive city, at an altitude of only about 50 metres, with shady, palm-lined boulevards, a prize-winning marina and a picturesque old quarter called Kaleici which has narrow, winding streets and quaint, old, wooden houses next to the city walls. Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C. by Attalus II, a king of Pergamon who named the city Attaleia after himself, it has had a continuous history. The Romans, Byzantines and Seljuks occupied the city before it came under Ottoman rule.
PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE CITY
MUSEUMS
Archaeology Museum: With remains from the Paleolithic Age to Ottoman Times, this is one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean region. (Open daily except Mondays.)
Ataturk Museum: This museum displays objects used by Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic. (Open daily except Mondays.)
Suna-Inan Kirac Museum: This museum is connected to the Research Institute for Mediterranean Cultures.
HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTSAncient City Walls: Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C., Antalya has had a continuous history. The ancient walls flank the city and other sections of the walls are still standing near the marina.
Clock Tower: Situated by the ancient city walls, it was part of the old city fortifications in the Kalekapisi Square.
Hadrian's Gate: The beautifully decorated, three-arched gate was built in honour of Hadrian when he visited the city in 130 A.D.
Hidirlik Tower: This tower was probably first built as a lighthouse in the 2nd century.
Karatay Medrese: This theological school dates from the 13th century and is situated in the Kaleici neighbourhood. The stone carvings on the portal and mihrap (prayer niche) are fine examples of Seljuk art.
Ataturk Monuments: One of the largest and most interesting monuments is located in Cumhuriyet Square within the city centre. The other one is in the center of Vatan Square.
Kaleici Quarter: This quaint area surrounding the Kaleici Marina is full of small hotels, pensions and restaurants as well as restored houses that all help to create the atmosphere for which the city is famous.
MOSQUES
Yivli Minareli Complex: It was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 13th century. Its elegant, fluted minaret has become the symbol of the city.
Kesik Minaret Complex: A memorial to the mixed history of Antalya is the Kesik (truncated) Minaret Mosque. Formerly a church, it has seen Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman modifications.
Tekeli Mehmet Fasa Mosque: An important 18th-century Ottoman mosque situated in the Kalekapisi district, inside the city walls.
Murat Pasa Mosque: The unique tile design of this mosque built in the 16th century is of particular interest.
Iskele Mosque: This attractive little mosque built in the 19th century is situated beside the marina. It was constructed of set stone and built on four pillars over a spring.
PARKS AND NATURAL BEAUTYKaraalioglu: A magnificient view of Antalya awaits visitors here with colourful exotic flowers, vivid in the sunlight with the shimmering water of the bay and the mountains in the background.
Mermerli: Situated just above the marina at the southeast comer of the Kaleici district, this park is the best place for relaxation with a wonderful view of the mountains.
Ataturk: This park also has a wonderful view of the city, displaying gorgeous flowers and an incredible scenic view.
Genclik: Situated on a peninsula, en route to Lara Beach you can see Duden Waterfalls from this vantage point, a most breathtaking view of the falls as they cascade into the sea. Yavuz Ozcan: A peaceful respite within Antalya's city centre. This park is delightful with its pools, miniature waterfalls and beautiful fountains which display colourful lights in the evening. Recep Bilgin: This park, located not far from Yavuz Ozcan Park is situated within the city center and is worth a visit to see its architectural design.
Konyaalti Woods: Situated behind Konyaalti Beach, this park provides a nice, shady, cool place for rest and relaxation outside the city.
The Upper Duden Waterfalls, 14 km to the northeast, are unique because you can walk behind the cascade. On the way to Lara Beach, 10 km to the east, are the Lower Duden Waterfalls that plunge straight into the sea. The nearby rest area offers an excellent view of the falls but the view is most spectacular from the sea. Kursunlu Waterfalls and Nilufer Lake, both 18 km from Antalya, are two more places where nature displays her beauty.
BEACHES
Lara: This sandy beach is about 12 km to the east of Antalya city centre.
Adalar: Situated on the lower side of Karaalioglu Park, there are steps leading down to the beach which consists of little rocky islands. Beach facilities are available.
Mermerli: Situated near the Antalya Marina in the Kaleici district and located adjacent to Mermerli Park.
Konyaalti: This long, pebbled beach lies west of Antalya, where a breathtaking view of the mountains can clearly be seen.
Topcam: This beautiful beach is situated at Olympos National Park, across from Sican Island.
ART, CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
Antalya is full of exciting cultural activities and entertainment possibilities. The annual Altin Portakal Film and Art Festival held in the autumn and Antalya's annual jewellery festival are just a few of the many events available. Antalya's Fine Arts Gallery offers performance exhibitions. The Aspendos Open Air Theater is a wonderful place to see international opera, ballet and symphony orchestras. Every year special classical performances are held here as well as performances by the most popular Turkish enter- tainers. For evening entertainment, Antalya's Kaleici Marina and Leisure Centre is the best place in the city with many beautiful restaurants, cafes, bars, parks and discos in this area. Near Setur Marina, dining is available on floating seafood restaurants in an unpretentious and nautical atmosphere. For a pano- ramic view of the area there is a holiday complex and revolving restaurant, 15 km from Antalya, on top of Tunektepe Hill. One can also have a good time at the two water recreation parks Aqualand and Aquapark near the Culture Park.
A Culture, Exhibition and Congress Center was opened in 1996 in the Konyaalti Quarter. The Congress hall itself is in a glass pyramid.
SHOPPING
Some of the best shopping may be found in the Kaleici district, near the city walls. Meander down through the side streets in the old quarters where it's possible to find anything your heart desires. Old Turkish kilims, original gold jewellery, leather products, natural cotton clothing, handmade wood items as well as traditional Turkish handicrafts abound here. Ataturk, Cumhuriyet and Isiklar are the three other shopping avenues. Don't miss the colourful open air vegetable and fruit market, the place for food shopping as well as a great place for capturing that perfect picture.
MARINAS
The Turban Kaleici Marina has won several awards and is considered one of the loveliest marinas in Turkey with an extraordinary blend of ancient and modern environmental design together with numerous shrubs, trees and exotic flowers. A peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle is Setur Marina located 10 km west of Antalya, offering all types of yacht services.
GOLF
Golf lovers will not want to miss The National Golf Club in Belek which is one of the top modem holiday centers in Turkey. Belek is located 40 km west of Antalya and offers a championship 18-hole golf course as well as a 9-hole course and an academic course. This golf area is among shady pine forests not far from some of the nicest beach areas in the region.
DAILY EXCURSIONS
What could be more appealing than dreamlike landscapes, grand mountains , the magnificent colours of the sea and a rich variety of flora. Add to that the lively holiday life with the quiet of ancient ruins and you have a perfect vacaion. From Antalya there are many possibilities for day trips. The Bey Daglan (Olympos) National Park, Topcam Beach and camp grounds, at the north end of the park, are perfect for a visit, and for enjoying a view of the strangely perpendiculer Sican island the mountain resort of Saklikent, 50 km from Antalya, is an ideal winter sports center on the northern slopes of Bakirli Mountain at an altitude of 1750-1900 m. March and April are the months when you can ski in the morning, then in the afternoon go to the marina for a lunch of fresh fish, and end the day sunbathing on the beach, swimming or windsurfing- On the eastern side of Can Mountain, 30 km from Antalya, is Karain Cave, dating from the Paleolithic Age and the site of the oldest settlement in Turkey. The cave has a single entrance, lit by the morning sun, then moves into three large interconnecting chambers. The little museum at the entrance houses some of the remains, but most of the finds from mis cave are scat- tered in various museums throughout Turkey. In Duzlercami Park, 20 km north of Antalya, the deer and mountain goats are protected species. The very interesting 115-meter-deep Guver Canyon is 3 km south of the park.
TERMESSOS
Gulluk Dagi National Park is 34 km to the northwest of Antalya. The ancient city of Tennessos, set inside the park, is located on a high plateau at 1,050 meters on the west side of Gulluk Mountain (Solymos). Explore this ancient city and wander among ruins in a beautiful natural setting. At the park entrance is a nature and wildlife museum.
THE COAST WEST OF ANTALYAThis is a land of exciting possibilities and quiet nature that has some of the top holiday resorts. Whether a quiet comer or lively entertainment, the choice is yours. Each bay and cove has its own special features. Discover archaeological sites, dive into blue waters and thoroughly relax on-this Coast of Light. Rising up immediately behind the coast are the mountains of the Bey Mountain Range, which, along with the coast from Konyaalh Beach to Kirlangic Peninsula, from the National Park named for the range. This area of mountains and coast makes up the beautiful, ancient Lycian Peninsula. The history of the area can be traced back to the Neolithic Age from the settlements at Beldibi, and to the Bronze Age from the finds at Semahoyiik on Elmali Plateau where Phrygian tumuli can still be seen.
KEMER
The 42 kilometres of road from Antalya to Kemer go through spectacular mountain scenery. This resort town has been designed to blend in with the scenery and offers the perfect environment for a wonderful holiday. There is a fully equipped marina and the unspoilt bays and beaches south of the town are a yachtsman's dream. Shoppers will delight at the wonderful range of high quality souvenirs that can be bought here. There is a beach promenade on the northern part of the marina which has steps leading down from its cafes and shops dire
y to the beach. Kemer Beach is rated Blue Flag (meaning "clean beach") by the European Union. In the Yoruk (Nomad) Theme Park, overlooking a lovely bay, you can watch traditional craftsmen at work. Along the adjoining bay is a charming and delightful spot with sports and entertainment.facilities discreetly hidden in pine groves. The colorful Kemer Carnival is held in the spring. Also in the spring are the yacht races between Kemer and Gime (in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus). Kiziltepe, Goynuk (Blue Flag) and Beldibi (Blue Flag), north of Kemer, and Camyuva and Tekirova (Blue Flag), to the south, are tourist centres that provide for a variety of activities and holiday villages all built to blend into the forest that encircles them. Of all the beautiful places in the Kemer region these areas are the favourites.
PHASELIS
Situated at the foot of Mt. Tahtali (Olympos), 15 km south of Kemer, the three harbours of Phaselis were the reason for its historical role as a commercial centre. The view of Mt. Tahtali from the south harbour is particularly spectacular. The sheltered, pebbled and sandy beaches around the bays are delightful and the waters here are calm and safe for children and young swimmers. The ruins of aqueducts, agoras, baths, a theater, Hadrian's Gate, and an acropolis underline the city's historical importance.
OLYMPOS
This ancient city is situated on the southern side of Mt. Tahtali. Whether coming by sea or land do not miss the Olympos Valley shaded with oleander and laurel shrubs and the refreshing quiet pools of flowing water. The design of the mosaics in the Olympos bath is enhanced by the play of light while a temple gate and a theatre are of interest along with the other walls and towers around the bay which date from the Middle Ages. North of Olympos, up from Cirah Beach, is Yanartas (at a height of 300 m) where, according to mythology the rire breathing monster, Chimaera, was slain by the Lycian hero Bellerophon who was mounted on his winged horse, Pegasus. Nearby you can see remains from the Byzantines who attached religious importance to the area. Tranquil waters and sandy beaches line the Bay of Cavus, situated south of Olympos. This enchanting bay is yours for an unforgettable experience of water-skiing on glassy water, for discovering the colorful marine life in waters clear enough to see to the bottom, or exploring the incredible sea caves on the northern shore.
FINIKE
This town surrounded by citrus trees and gardens is a port of entry into Turkey lying to the west of Olympos. A sandy beach stretches to the east, and to the west are rocky bays and coves. Limyra, an ancient city of Lycia, is 10 km from Finike via Turuncova. On the south side of the acropolis is the Pericles Mausoleum Monument. Decorated with caryatids of the 4th century B.C., it is not to be missed. City walls and a theatre are also of interest.
ARIKANDA
Along a mountain road of unsurpassed beauty, about 32 km from Finike, is the rum off for the Lycian city of Arikanda. Set high on the mountain side with plenty of fresh air and cool water, it is no wonder such a place was chosen. In the extensive ruins, the agora, theater, stadium, bouleuterion and water system are of interest. Memorial graves are set in the hillside while an ancient bath and gymnasium over- look one of the most beautiful valleys.
DEMRE (KALE)
This site is the ancient Myra (25 km to the west of Finike) and it is best known for St, Nicholas, the bishop of this Mediterranean city during the 4th century, who died here in 342 A.D. Every year in December the St. Nicholas Commemoration Ceremony is held, attracting many tourists who spend their Christmas holiday on the sunny coast of ancient Lycia. In ancient Myra, many rock tombs overlook the splendid theater. Dalyanagzi, the ancient harbor of Andriace, 6 km west of Demre, is perfect for swimming as well as relaxing on the sandy beaches.
KEKOVA
An hour from Dalyanagzi by sea, especially enjoyable for yachtsmen, is the island of Kekova, "home of the sun." Kekova is also the name for this entire area of picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient cities. These bays provide natural harbours in all seasons and here, too, nature is joined by history to cre- ate a harmony rarely seen, Geological shifting along the northern shore of Kekova Island (Apollonia) over the years has caused some of the ancient structures to sink under the clear water, creating a sunken city. A bird's eye view of the whole scene of bays, inlets, islands, and yachts sailing peacefully on the smooth water can be seen from the Kalekoy Castle (Simena). The colors of a Van Gogh painting and orange sunsets, together with starry, starry nights, peace and tranquility, playful dolphins, mythological mysteries, and the sparkling sea - Kekova provides all this and more.
