World Most Amazing Places: August 2008

There are many amazing places and sights dotted around the Mediterranean, but in terms of sheer soul-tugging beauty, few places compare to Turkey's evocatively named Turquoise Coast. Fantastic sea views do not even start to describe it! This coastline is nearly 1600 km (994 miles) long, scattered with fine-sand beaches and sprinkled abundantly with classical cities turned to picturesque ruins. From Marmaris to Antalya the coastline is gorgeous, the weather is reliably excellent and there are heaps of things to see and do. Few places can rival it for unspoiled natural beauty, pine-covered cliffs plunging into the sea, secluded coves and empty beaches. It is equally rich in historical interest, with well preserved Roman and Byzantine ruins, Lycian tombs, Crusader castles and Ottoman fortresses. Stay at this villa and enjoy stunning sea views.

It is said that Mark Antony gave the coastline to Cleopatra as a wedding gift. The swimming is glorious, in crystal clear waters that afford views into the depths. The scent of eucalyptus perfumes the air and the forested mountains form a contrasting backdrop. Keep your eyes open for the Lycian rock tombs skilfully carved into the mountains centuries ago. A traditional Turkish Yacht or Gulet is one of the best ways to see the Turquoise Coast. The Taurus Mountains form a dramatic backdrop along much of the Coast, often dropping steeply right into the sea. In some places rivers have washed down enough sediment over the ages to form beaches backed by fertile alluvial plains, good for growing cotton, vegetables, and even tropical fruits like bananas.

The combination of stunning scenery, sea views and numerous ancient sites makes this area of Turkey the perfect place for some fine coastal and inland walking. The Lycian way, one of two long distance trekking routes in Turkey was opened in 1999. Stretching for 500 kilometres between Fethiye and Antalya, this route provides about a months walking (if you want it) through some of Turkey's most spectacular scenery. Lycia is an area steeped in history with a rugged charm all of its own. The path can take you through a variety of landscapes right up to the 5000ft shoulder of Tahtali mountain.

There are many places of interest to visit along the coast such as Olympos, Fethiye & Kas or experience the healing waters of the thermal baths at Dalyan. If you do decide to take a boat then you must pay a visit to Kekova, it is a super trip. Places of interest to visit from Kalkan Villas - Turquoise Coast Map.