Dalyan, Dalaman Region, Turkey
Dalyan is surrounded by mountains, a river, a lake and the sea which offers some stunning scenery from every angle. This beautiful village with natural conservation area offers a good selection of bars, cafe and restaurants to suit all budgets and tastes.
Dalyan
It has something for everyone, whether it is trekking, mountain biking or snorkelling for the adventurous or simply relaxing on the most beautiful beach on Turkey. There is also a variety of shops and local markets on offer.
Dalaman Airport is 29km away, with a transfer time of around 50mins.
Beaches
Iztuzu Beach, otherwise known as Turtle Beach is about 30 minutes away by boat. The beach can also be reached by bus but the boat trip is far nicer and more enjoyable. The boat trip takes you down the river delta, past tall reeds and native terrapins till you get to the 4km stretch of fine white sand. There is a cafe, toilet facilities and shop selling/hiring beach equipment. The Loggerhead turtles breed here from May to September and the beach may be closed from 8pm to 8am during this time.
Things to Do
The main tourist attraction in Dalyan has got to be the mud baths. Take a relaxing boat trip then a dip in the mud pools then round it off with the thermal hot springs. Who needs an expensive spa when you can take advantage of the cleansing and therapeutic benefits of the rich minerals. Not only is it good for your skin but it is also a very relaxing and fun day out.
Boat trips here are popular and you might want to take the one along the Dalyan River to experience the stunning beauty and the protected wetlands which is just full of birds and other wildlife. You may also want to take a boat trip to the ancient city of Kaunos to see the amazing Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs, the city walls and amphitheatre.
The dramatic mountains and lush green fields are just perfect for the many walkers, hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders that enjoy exploring the area with its ruined villages and secluded beaches.
As well as the many boat trips that are on offer, there are also many watersports to take part in eg water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, diving and snorkelling so get up and try something different.
Out and About
This lively and traditional resort is home to a good selection of bars, cafes and restaurants, many of which are down at the waterfront and offer some fantastic views of the tombs. Whether it be Chinese, Indian, International or Turkish cuisine you are after, you will be sure to find something to your liking here.
There is plenty of choice when it comes to evening entertainment. There are plenty of bars, family friendly bars and then there are a few noisy clubs for those who wish to party into the small hours.
Visitors to Dalyan will enjoy browsing the many craft shops, boutiques and souvenir shops that are on offer as well as several supermarkets. There is also a weekly market which sells locally made goods and souvenirs so get ready to barter for a bargain.
The Caretta Caretta Festival is held here every year to celebrate the Loggerhead turtles breeding in the area. The 3 day event plays host to pop groups, Turkish singers and the entertaining oily pole contest where locals must try to grab the flag without sliding down the oily pole, into the sea.
Nearby Attractions
There are loads of trips that can be taken from Dalyan which include boat trips round the islands, trekking tours and jeep safaris. These are all great ways to explore the area, whether it be on land or on water.
One of the most popular trips is the 12 island boat trip which tours the islands and stops for some swimming and snorkelling along the way. There is some stunning scenery and views to be seen so certainly not a trip to be missed.
There are lots of ancient ruins to be seen in the area eg the Ancient City of Tlos, where you can explore the relics of Lycian and Roman times. There is the market place, Roman bath, amphitheatre, the sarcophaguses of the king's three sons and some rock cut tombs.
Take a trip through some fantastic mountains to get to Fethiye where you can enjoy some shopping or simply wander round and enjoy some of the fantastic scenery.
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