{"id":587625,"date":"2025-07-24T20:49:56","date_gmt":"2025-07-24T19:49:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=587625"},"modified":"2025-09-06T21:54:22","modified_gmt":"2025-09-06T20:54:22","slug":"10-beautiful-places-visit-turkey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/travel\/10-beautiful-places-visit-turkey\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Turkey"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In my opinion, Turkey offers so much more than crowded resorts. I explored beyond the crowds to discover ancient architecture and stunning landscapes, from snow-like natural wonders to hippy beach retreats. Here are my top picks from my many visits&#8230;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">1. Bodrum<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775761\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775761\" style=\"width: 2150px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 2160w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?w=2160&amp;ssl=1 2160w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=2048%2C1365&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775761 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Bodrum Bay in summer 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775761\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Bodrum Bay &#8211; there were loads of Insta-worthy views here!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775764\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775764\" style=\"width: 2038px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-boats-in-the-harbour-2024.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775764 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Bodrum boats in the harbour 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775764\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Bodrum boats in the harbour &#8211; they glistened as they gently bobbing in the clear blue water.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775765\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775765\" style=\"width: 2038px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1200%2C800&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-the-Views-from-the-Kempinski-Hotel-Barbaros-Bay-Bodrum-taken-in-summer-2024.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775765 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of the Views from the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum taken in summer 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775765\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of the Views from the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum &#8211; the views of the Aegean Sea were mesmerising!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s1\">Despite not knowing what to expect, Bodrum really won me over! I found the port city and popular resort to be a captivating blend of ancient and modern architecture, with traditional whitewashed houses trimmed in blue, a mix of lively beaches and peaceful coves, scattered ancient ruins, lush green hills, and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I thought the city had a unique dual nature which was a blend of upscale chic with its sprawling five star resorts, trendy bars, fine<span class=\"s1\"> waterfront restaurants and yacht-filled marinas as well as more of typical Mediterranean tourist resort with its souvenir shops and busy budget cafes.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"e5aefff5-1bf6-4631-8c70-bed9be335ffa\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"215\">I found it nestled on the on the Bodrum Peninsula which stretched into the Aegean Sea in the southwestern coast of the country. It dates back to the 12th century BC and was historically known as Halicarnassus. It was once famous for housing the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and today has an estimated population of around 200,000.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"215\">I took an international flight into Milas-Bodrum Airport and then a 45 minute shuttle ride and I stayed for a blissful week relaxing on beautiful beaches (the lively Gumbet and the peaceful Bitez were my favorites!).<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"215\">I also explored the ancient Castle of St. Peter that houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, strolled through the cosmopolitan marina, sampled the nightlife along Bar Street, and discovered the interesting ruins of the <a href=\"https:\/\/muze.gov.tr\/muze-detay?SectionId=MAU01&amp;DistId=MRK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mausoleum of Halicarnassus<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring and summer<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>swimming, snorkelling, boat tours, scuba diving, shopping<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Bodrum,+Mu%C4%9Fla,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@37.035765,27.3348331,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14be6c4faeb0d669:0x51a6e218f706590a!8m2!3d37.034407!4d27.43054!16zL20vMDFza3h4?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the 4-star boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/villa-kilic-48400.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso5AFCEXZpbGxhLWtpbGljLTQ4NDAwSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEHyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIDuALUvLe7BsACAdICJGIyMTJiYjYxLWQzMmMtNDk4Ny04YjM0LTVjZjhkNDBiOTQ4OdgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;checkin=2025-04-10&amp;checkout=2025-04-11&amp;dest_id=900039693&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=1&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=1&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1735253594&amp;srpvid=35c9a0eabdfd04e8&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Faros Bodrum Hotel<\/a> &#8211; I loved the trendy decor, my four poster bed and sunbathing on the pontoon overlooking the sea &#8211; they even bought fresh fruit and chilled towels as I relaxed!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. Istanbul&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643192 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Istanbul Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"662\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul-1.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul-1.jpg?resize=768%2C509&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=1000%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"665\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=1000%2C665&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Istanbul.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632644 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Istanbul - most beautiful places to visit in Instanbul\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/h2>\n<p>I thought this city was intoxicating! I discovered that the largest city in the country had a exotic blend of rich history and modern architecture, with striking iconic landmarks that dominated the skyline, narrow, labyrinthine streets lined with hidden cafes, artisan shops and eclectic neighbourhoods all set against the scenic backdrop of the Bosphorus Strait.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I was in awe of the unique mix of cultures here as well as the bustling markets, the gorgeous water views, the lively nightlife and its dynamic vibe &#8211; it really was where East met the West!<\/p>\n<p>I found it in the northwestern part of the country, straddling both Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait and has a population of over 15 million people. It was once known as known as Byzantium and later Constantinople and has been a major cultural and economic hub since around 660 BCE.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I flew into Istanbul Airport and&nbsp;spent a heady four days exploring. I squeezed in visiting the iconic landmarks of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, strolled through the maze-like Grand Bazaar, sampled the trendy nightlife in Beyo\u011flu, went on a truly magical <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.co.uk\/istanbul-l56\/istanbul-bosphorus-dinner-cruise-with-live-entertainment-t415437\/?ranking_uuid=b58595f8-7fe5-4adf-993f-e09b4c701dee\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bosphorus cruise<\/a>, tested my haggling skills at the busy Spice Bazaar, people-watched while sipping on a dibek coffee in the lively Taksim Square and gorged on Turkish cuisine from upscale dining to trying street food at \u0130stiklal Avenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: northwest part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring or autumn (for mild weather and fewer tourists).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>visiting iconic landmarks, market, boat tours, traditional hammams, and sampling street food<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/%C4%B0stanbul,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@41.0048519,28.6825314,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14caa7040068086b:0xe1ccfe98bc01b0d0!8m2!3d41.0082376!4d28.9783589!16zL20vMDk5NDlt?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the gorgeous 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/mest.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-7541515_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-10_dow-Monday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250106_ppt-Ce_lp-2826_r-15229969909079155062&amp;sid=f04a0648f4db156cc863e69edfb60614&amp;all_sr_blocks=754151504_332091114_2_1_0_125449&amp;checkin=2025-01-06&amp;checkout=2025-01-07&amp;dest_id=-755070&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=754151504_332091114_2_1_0_125449&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=754151504_332091114_2_1_0_125449&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=754151504_332091114_2_1_0_125449_11475&amp;srepoch=1735257571&amp;srpvid=e9e0a8af43bb0440&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci<\/a> &#8211; I loved the Insta-worthy historic boutique styling, the stunning views of the rooftop terrace which had superb views of the Bosphorus and my ornately-tiled guest room balcony!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Cappadocia<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.webp 800w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=800%2C456&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"456\" width=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C365&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/20-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C438&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" class=\"wp-image-632639 size-full alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"beautiful Cappadocia in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643186 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Beautiful places to visit in Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Turkey-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643187 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Stunning places to visit in Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"668\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Stunning-places-to-visit-in-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I thought this famous and very Insta-worthy historical region was breathtaking! I found surreally beautiful landscapes filled with fairy chimneys, ancient rock-hewn churches, cave dwellings and fascinating underground cities, all set against the backdrop of stunning sunrise hot air balloon rides that illuminated the unique geological formations. To me, it felt magical, romantic and other-worldly, almost fairy-tale like!<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">I found it located in the scenic Anatolian region in the central part of the country, largely in the Nev\u015fehir Province, but it also extended into Kayseri, Aksaray, and Ni\u011fde provinces as well. It&#8217;s an unusual <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">region shaped by volcanic activity and erosion, dates back to the Hittites in the 6th century BCE, and today has a population of around 2.5 million.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I flew from Istanbul to Nev\u015fehir Kapadokya Airport which took an hour and 10 minutes and I spent three days here based in Nev\u015fehir (where most of the all the action was at!) and I loved gazing at the<span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"> otherworldly landscapes and &#8220;fairy chimneys&#8221; &#8211; Peri Bacalar\u0131 in Turkish &#8211; from a hot air balloon.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">I also explored the ancient rock-cut churches of <a href=\"https:\/\/muze.gov.tr\/muze-detay?SectionId=GRM01&amp;DistId=GRM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">G\u00f6reme Open Air Museum<\/a>, wandered through the underground cities of Derinkuyu (which is the deepest, extending about 55 meters) and Kaymakl\u0131 (one of the largest underground settlements in the region) and hiked the beautiful Love Valley and Rose Valley. <\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: central part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for hot air balloon rides with clear skies).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>hot air balloon rides, exploring ancient cave churches and underground cities, hiking through surreal valleys<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Cappadocia,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@38.3695132,33.7477096,8z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14d6025c679e1679:0xf9178b7341dc5e49!8m2!3d38.6586639!4d34.8531604!16zL20vMGtwZ24?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"d2fee87262 pp-header__title\">Staying at the gorgeous 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/divan-cave-house.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAYo5AFCCmNhcHBhZG9jaWFICVgDaOcBiAEBmAEJuAEYyAEM2AEB6AEB-AECiAIBqAIEuALR4bm7BsACAdICJGM0ZWY0ZWZhLTY2YTctNDU1ZS1hNWI0LWZmOTYwZjlmMWRkONgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=4bea75eafca522345c249ee051be6dc1&amp;dest_id=2758&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;hpos=3&amp;nflt=class%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1735291122&amp;srpvid=5ac14170bb1f024d&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Divan Cave House<\/a> &#8211; I was totally won over by the boutique decor and vibe, my beautifully restored cave guest room and the terrace where I gazed at the famous fairy chimneys and hot air balloons!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. Antalya&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643205 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Antalya Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"662\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Antalya-1.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632672 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Antalya Beach Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>I personally thought this was the most stunning city along the Mediterranean coastline! I found an enchanting blend of ancient Roman architecture, long, wide golden sand beaches, a mix of family-friendly and boutique hotels, and restored Ottoman mansions all set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and the shimmering azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea.<\/p>\n<p>I was equally taken with the vibe which was <span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">lively and eclectic with a charm of its historical heritage mixed with an energy of a modern seaside resort. <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"9690f979-f5ed-46e3-88e1-339136aa9a65\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"141\">I found it located on the southwestern coast within the region known as the Turkish Riviera. It dates back to the Roman era, is one of the country&#8217;s most populous cities with a population of over one million residents and is also a major tourist destination.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"141\">I flew directly into Antalya Airport and stayed for a week on a summer break. I explored the historic old town of Kalei\u00e7i which had narrow cobbled streets and interesting Ottoman-era architecture, visited the impressive D\u00fcden Waterfalls, relaxed on the renowned Konyaalt\u0131 and Lara Beaches, discovered ancient ruins at Aspendos and Perge, and sampled the lively nightlife located along the marina!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: autumn (for mild temperatures and fewer tourists).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong> exploring ancient ruins, swimming, visiting waterfalls, scenic cable car ride<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Antalya,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.8979091,30.6357037,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c39aaeddadadc1:0x95c69f73f9e32e33!8m2!3d36.8968908!4d30.7133233!16zL20vMDFfaGhw?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favourite highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the trendy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/ashta-suites.tr.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso5AFCDGFzaHRhLXN1aXRlc0goWANoUIgBAZgBKLgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBA4gCAagCA7gC8OH3wQbAAgHSAiQ3ZTBmNWMzZS02MWY3LTQwM2ItOGQyNS1lMGZjZDQ5MmI2ZDfYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;checkin=2025-06-03&amp;checkout=2025-06-04&amp;dest_id=-749044&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1748889846&amp;srpvid=b6e983b808830101&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ashta Nordic Suite<\/a> &#8211; I really liked the Scandi-chic style decor, the huge in-room jacuzzi and the intimate, boutique vibe!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">5. Kas<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.jpg?resize=1000%2C661&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"661\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.jpg?resize=1000%2C661&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.jpg?resize=640%2C423&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/kas.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632657 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Kas beach Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Kas-Town-Turkey.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770852 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Kas Town Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I thought it was a very charming seaside town! I thought it was a Mediterranean gem with its<span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"> picturesque blend of whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful bougainvillea flowers, quaint cobbled streets, artisan shops, friendly street cafes, white pebble beaches and unbelievably clear turquoise waters all set against a backdrop of the dramatic Taurus Mountains. <\/span>I particularly loved its very laid-back, bohemian vibe, and the fact that it attracted a great mix of artists, backpackers and tourists.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I found it located along the Mediterranean Sea, in part of the Antalya Province in the southwestern coast of the country. It&#8217;s nestled between the sea and the mountains, offering dramatic views and easy access to both beach and hiking activities. It has a history dating back to the ancient Lycian civilization, with origins believed to date as far back as the 4th century BC. Today it has&nbsp; population of around 7,000 people and is scattered with ruins and tombs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I flew into Antalya Airport and from there it was a three hour drive and I stayed for a gorgeous week. I mostly just relaxed (the picturesque Kaputas Beach was my favorite hangout!) but I also went scuba diving and explored the intriguing sunken city of Kekova, discovered the ancient ruins of Antiphellos, and went for a romantic sunset sail along the gorgeous Turkish Riviera.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: autumn (for warm sea temperatures and quieter streets).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing to nearby islands<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Ka%C5%9F,+Andifli,+07580+Ka%C5%9F%2FAntalya,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.2008555,29.6394459,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c1da54a506cf4d:0xcfbf502fb3cb4db3!8m2!3d36.199913!4d29.63955!16zL20vMGJqOXFs?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the contemporary boutique retreat <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/mekvin-suites-amp-villas.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso5AFCGG1la3Zpbi1zdWl0ZXMtYW1wLXZpbGxhc0gJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gCksT3wQbAAgHSAiQ2MzUyZGUxZC0yMjQwLTRkNWYtODkxZS1iNGViZGUyYmIwZGbYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=925267310_377799303_2_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-03&amp;checkout=2025-06-04&amp;dest_id=-758319&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=925267310_377799303_2_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;map=1&amp;matching_block_id=925267310_377799303_2_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=925267310_377799303_2_1_0__12920&amp;srepoch=1748886039&amp;srpvid=4bad7c49301a0466&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#map_closed\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Novva Hotel<\/a> &#8211; I loved the views of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea from my Loft Suite, the modern spa, the private beach, and trying a Hatha Yoga class on their garden lawn!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. Patara<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775759\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775759\" style=\"width: 630px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-taken-in-August-2023.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-taken-in-August-2023.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-taken-in-August-2023.jpg?resize=640%2C428&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"428\" width=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-taken-in-August-2023.jpg?w=640&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-taken-in-August-2023.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775759 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Patara Beach taken in August 2023\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775759\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Patara Beach &#8211; it felt like a true hidden gem on the Mediterranean coast.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775760\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775760\" style=\"width: 2550px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 2560w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 150w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.webp 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1200%2C660&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"660\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?w=2560&amp;ssl=1 2560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=640%2C352&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1000%2C550&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=768%2C422&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=1536%2C844&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=2048%2C1126&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?resize=150%2C82&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Patara-Beach-Coast-in-summer-2023-scaled.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775760 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Patara Beach Coast in summer 2023\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775760\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Patara Beach Coast in summer &#8211; there were lots of fun waters ports on offer!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>This was my favorite under-the-radar gem in Turkey! I thought it was a striking place where I found impressive ancient ruins and a very long, golden sandy beach bordered by rolling dunes and the rugged Taurus mountains.<\/p>\n<p>The beach was so beautiful it was once voted one of the top beaches in the world by Times Online and I agreed &#8211; it really was a special place! I thought the vibe here was unique too &#8211; to me it felt serene and untouched with a slight bohemian vibe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"769d14cd-98d4-4e28-8967-69fc889b6e28\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"151\">I found it nestled in the Antalya province, on the southwestern coast of Turkey (around 45 kilometers west of Kas) and close to the small town of Gelemi\u015f. It dates back to at least the 7th century BC and was originally established by the Lycians and then it became an important port city under Roman rule.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"151\">It&#8217;s famous for being the birthplace of Saint Nicholas and is also one of the few remaining nesting sites for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"151\">I flew into Dalaman Airport, then take a two-hour bus ride drive to the village of Gelemi\u015f, which was the gateway to Patara and I stayed for a dreamy week mostly relaxing on the gorgeous s 18-kilometer-long beach.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"151\">Although, I also explored the remarkable ruins of its ancient city, which included a well-preserved amphitheater and the oldest lighthouse on the Lycian coast, visited the Patara archaeological museum, and gazed at Insta-worthy sunsets views!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for beach relaxation and clear weather).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>swimming, snorkelling exploring the ancient ruins, spotting loggerhead sea turtles<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Patara+Beach\/@36.2707418,29.2690481,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c02eb47665e4bb:0x4169731f7fd12fd!8m2!3d36.2753567!4d29.2843598!16zL20vMDhsaGZ5?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/golden-lighthouse.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-186897_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-1_dow-Tuesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250603_ppt-_lp-2826_r-2697361888110560387&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=18689701_86204971_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-03&amp;checkout=2025-06-04&amp;dest_id=900040860&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=18689701_86204971_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=18689701_86204971_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=18689701_86204971_0_1_0__5400&amp;srepoch=1748887347&amp;srpvid=c62b7ed7d9e70628&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Golden Lighthouse Hotel<\/a> &#8211; I really liked the contemporary decor, how my room overlooked the hillside and green olive groves and the boho-light vibe!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">7. The Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775767\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775767\" style=\"width: 2550px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 2560w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 2048w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 150w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.webp 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=1200%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"665\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?w=2560&amp;ssl=1 2560w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=640%2C355&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=1000%2C554&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=768%2C426&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=1536%2C851&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=2048%2C1135&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?resize=150%2C83&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-The-Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz-taken-in-spring-2024.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775767 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of The Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz taken in spring 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775767\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of The Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz &#8211; the waters were unbelievably clear!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643184 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz.jpg?resize=1000%2C650&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz\" width=\"1000\" height=\"650\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz.jpg?resize=1000%2C650&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz.jpg?resize=640%2C416&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz.jpg?resize=768%2C500&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Blue-Lagoon-Oludeniz.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s1\">I was completely wowed by this Insta-worthy beauty spot! I discovered a stunning protected natural lagoon filled with shimmering brilliant turquoise waters, a gorgeous sandy beach, and stunning backdrop of emerald hills and rugged mountains. It felt like a truly special place &#8211; peaceful, yet with an almost otherworldly, dreamlike vibe!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex-1 overflow-hidden @container\/thread\">\n<div class=\"h-full\">\n<div class=\"react-scroll-to-bottom--css-rchgt-79elbk h-full\">\n<div class=\"react-scroll-to-bottom--css-rchgt-1n7m0yu\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-col text-sm md:pb-9\">\n<article class=\"w-full scroll-mb-[var(--thread-trailing-height,150px)] text-token-text-primary focus-visible:outline-2 focus-visible:outline-offset-[-4px]\" dir=\"auto\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-25\" data-scroll-anchor=\"true\">\n<div class=\"m-auto text-base py-[18px] px-3 md:px-4 w-full md:px-5 lg:px-4 xl:px-5\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 gap-4 text-base md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem]\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"d7680cb0-4969-4e4e-b9c1-07393195b214\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4o-mini\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"0f9e1e5d-e67c-4a79-a7b6-743d6a6b633e\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"172\">I found it located in Oludeniz, a small resort village in the Fethiye district of Mugla Province, in the southwestern part of the country, along the country&#8217;s gorgeous Turquoise Coast. It has a history rooted in ancient Lycian civilization and a small local population as well as sea turtles, dolphins, and a fine variety of fish. I saw that attracted tourists, diver, snorkelers and paragliders too.<\/p>\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"103\">I flew into Dalaman Airport and then took a 45-minute shuttle ride to Oludeniz and spent an idyllic three days at the modern 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/morina.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-314994_dev-desktop_los-3_bw-13_dow-Sunday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250615_ppt-_lp-2826_r-18346328483390276183&amp;sid=8ab3aa66fa5237bf6d635b43f6a97cc7&amp;all_sr_blocks=1446612_95139091_2_33_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-15&amp;checkout=2025-06-18&amp;dest_id=900039659&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=3&amp;highlighted_blocks=1446612_95139091_2_33_0&amp;hpos=3&amp;matching_block_id=1446612_95139091_2_33_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=1446612_95139091_2_33_0__53200&amp;srepoch=1748873785&amp;srpvid=03ce6453502d0097&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Morina Deluxe Hotel<\/a> and paid the small 20 Turkish Lira entrance fee. I spent the time snorkeling and diving in the azure waters, relaxing on the beaches and trying out the cafes, small bars and restaurants in the laid back beach town.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwest part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong> &#8211; swimming, paragliding, boat tours, snorkelling, and hiking the scenic Lycian Way.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/%C3%96l%C3%BCdeniz,+Fethiye%2FMu%C4%9Fla,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.5493321,29.1047003,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c04098bb416971:0x3ed8d9c9cbf81ec9!8m2!3d36.549333!4d29.115!16s%2Fm%2F025vp92?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favourite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Going on an awesome tandem <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/oludeniz-l996\/oludeniz-blue-lagoon-paragliding-flight-t445395\/?ranking_uuid=9ae251f8-6ccf-4700-bcbc-71f4622be282\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">paragliding flight<\/a> from summit of Mount Babada\u011f and seeing sunbathers dotting the curved sandy spit below, and even a super-cute loggerhead turtle swimming near the shore!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. Butterfly Valley<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Butterfly-Valley.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770849 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Butterfly Valley Turkey \" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643213 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Butterfly Valley&nbsp;Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Butterfly-Valley-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I thought this picturesque canyon was like paradise! I found it to be a breathtaking and secluded spot, with dramatic cliffs enclosing a serene, untouched sandy beach, dreamy turquoise waters, and lush greenery all around. It was also a special place because of the thousands of butterflies that I saw congregating in the trees and bright pink flowers behind the beach which gave me a spectacular show of pretty colours!<\/p>\n<p>Although the real highlight was seeing the thousands of butterflies (hence its name) which lived in the trees behind the beach which I saw when I visited in the summer months creating a dramatic kaleidoscope colors! I was completely enchanted by its unspoilt, rustic and eco-friendly charm &#8211; it felt tranquil and almost mystical!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<article class=\"w-full text-token-text-primary\" dir=\"auto\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-76\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"7bc850df-164c-4754-9b7d-4c3f3dd5c130\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"206\">I discovered it tucked away within the Fethiye district of Mu\u011fla Province on the southwestern coast (near the town of \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz). It&#8217;s a been protected nature reserve since the 1980s due to its unique flora and fauna, over 80 butterfly species including the Jersey Tiger, and is uninhabited except for seasonal visitors. I really admired that it had a strict conservation policy to preserve its natural beauty.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"206\">I took a 40 minute boat ride on a day trip from \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz when I was visiting the Blue Lagoon and relaxed and swimming on the pristine beach gazing at the unique scenery!&nbsp;I also had time to hike up to the stunning waterfall located behind the valley.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for butterflies and turquoise waters).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>&nbsp;&#8211; swimming, hiking&nbsp; to a hidden waterfall, spotting butterflies, camping under the stars, boat trips from \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Butterfly+Valley\/@36.496778,29.1256218,16z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c03ed6f9518e2d:0x5d8a6d5924f35f67!8m2!3d36.4965501!4d29.1302518!16s%2Fm%2F011sms09?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the unique 4-star boutique aparthotel <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/ancyra-suites.en-gb.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ansira Fethiye<\/a> &#8211; I loved seeing the sweeping views of Fethiye Bay from my hot tub balcony, the chic boho vibe and the organic toiletries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>9. Fethiye<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"666\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-1.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632641 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Fethiye city in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643195 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Fethiye Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Fethiye-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I thought this was a wonderful port city! I found that it was very easy-on-the-eye with a pretty natural harbor enveloped by rugged cliffs, a charming old town filled with traditional stone houses, and nearby pristine beaches and wonderfully clear azure waters. I liked that it had a a lively yet laid-back vibe, with a unique blend of both traditional Turkish culture mixed in with modern tourist amenities!<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">I found it tucked away in on the coast of the Turquoise Riviera, near the base of the Taurus Mountains and close to the island of Rhodes in Greece and the Blue Lagoon in the Aegean region of the country. Its history has origins as the ancient city of Telmessos, as early as the 5th century BC, and through the years have seen Lycian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I came here when I was visiting the \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz Beach (which was part of the Blue Lagoon) and from there it was only a 20 minute drive. I spent an idyllic three days here mostly relaxing on \u00c7al\u0131\u015f Beach (which was a mix of pebbles and sand) which had a lively promenade lined with restaurants and bars.<\/p>\n<p>I also discovered the ancient rock tombs of Telmessos also located here, strolled through the charming streets of the Old Town, relaxed on the beautiful beaches of \u00d6l\u00fcdeniz, take a boat trip to the secluded Butterfly Valley, and watched the paragliders off Babada\u011f Mountain.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for blooming nature and comfortable weather).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>: boat tours, scuba diving, paragliding, exploring local markets.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Fethiye,+Mu%C4%9Fla,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.6517916,29.0394686,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c0439b0db6b13b:0x87150704244f70d7!8m2!3d36.659246!4d29.126347!16zL20vMGJqN2Rw?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at the chic and trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/ancyra-suites.en-gb.html?aid=304142&amp;label=gen173bo-1FCAQoggJCDnNlYXJjaF9mZXRoaXllSAlYA2hQiAEBmAEJuAEHyAEM2AEB6AEB-AEDiAIBmAICqAIDuALJuvjBBsACAdICJDkyYmFjMzkwLTMyODktNDhiMy1hZjMxLWY0NjRmMTJlMjRkYtgCBeACAQ&amp;sid=3c0df38f60a03781a0179c8cb2c027ad&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;hpos=2&amp;nflt=ht_id%3D204%3Bclass%3D4&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1748901225&amp;srpvid=9f5f99e46c8e0417&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ansira Fethiye<\/a> &#8211; I loved my huge in-room jacuzzi, my spacious room, the high quality linens and the coastal charm vibe!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>10. Pamukkale<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643190 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Pamukkale Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-2.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-turkey.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632640 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Pamukkale Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643189 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Pamukkale Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Pamukkale-Turkey-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I personally think this is the country&#8217;s most impressive natural wonders! I found the famous natural site was truly extraordinary with its breathtaking white terraces and warm, mineral-rich (mostly calcium carbonate) pools, which spectacularly cascaded down a hillside and the vivid contrast of the surrounding green landscapes. I loved how it felt tranquil, surreal and almost other-worldly!<\/p>\n<p>I found it nestled in the River Menderes valley in southwestern part of the country, near the city of Denizli. It&#8217;s name translated into &#8220;Cotton Castle&#8221; and the area has been used a thermal spa since Roman times, with the nearby city of Hierapolis established around the 2nd century BCE.<\/p>\n<p>I took an hour and 10 minutes flight from Nev\u015fehir (near Cappadocia) to Denizli \u00c7ardak Airport (the closest airport to Pamukkale) and from there I took 1-hour drive to Pamukkale and stayed in the quirky 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/sinter-terasse.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-364983_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-1_dow-Tuesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250603_ppt-Bd_lp-2826_r-12054293795509285233&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=36498303_378385895_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-03&amp;checkout=2025-06-04&amp;dest_id=-767582&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=36498303_378385895_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=36498303_378385895_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=36498303_378385895_0_1_0__4590&amp;srepoch=1748883311&amp;srpvid=4bad76f585a500da&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Sinter Terasse House Hotel<\/a> for a very unique three days mostly soaking in the warm waters in the terraces.<\/p>\n<p>I also found time to squeeze in exploring the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, which had a well-preserved theatre and necropolis, swam in the historic thermal pool, known as &#8216;Antique Pool&#8217; (which was strangely filled with submerged fragments of ancient marble columns!), and visited the interesting <a href=\"https:\/\/muze.gov.tr\/muze-detay?SectionId=PMK01&amp;DistId=PMK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hierapolis Archaeology Museum<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: western part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (to enjoy warm temperatures without extreme heat).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong> soaking in the warm, mineral-rich pools, swimming among ancient ruins in the Antique Pool, explore the ancient city of Hierapolis<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Pamukkale,+20190+Pamukkale%2FDenizli,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@37.9152809,29.1120212,16z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c713c95620da2f:0xb1190f5f451efcd6!8m2!3d37.9136957!4d29.1187097!16zL20vMDNuYnNs?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bathing in the ancient thermal pools of Hierapolis and gazing at the views of the unique travertine terraces and the surrounding countryside &#8211; tiny white calcium deposits clung to my skin like glitter!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"e5aefff5-1bf6-4631-8c70-bed9be335ffa\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-none\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col flex-grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 whitespace-normal break-words text-start [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"769d14cd-98d4-4e28-8967-69fc889b6e28\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"9690f979-f5ed-46e3-88e1-339136aa9a65\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<h2>11. Alanya<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643207 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Alanya Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-643208 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Alanya beach Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Alanya-Turkey-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I really enjoying staying at this beach resort city! It thought it was a gorgeous place &#8211; there was the majestic Alanya Castle perched on a rocky peninsula, sparkling turquoise waters, long pale gold sandy beaches, historic Seljuk architecture and a mix of tasteful low-rise modern resorts and small boutique guest houses.<\/p>\n<p>I really liked how it felt both relaxing but there was still a buzz &#8211; there was a heady mix of bustling bazaars, busy bars and modern nightlife but it was still fiercely proud of its historical heritage and well-preserved ancient ruins.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">I found it nestled like a jewel along the Mediterranean Sea in the Antalya Province southeastern coast. It&#8217;s situated approximately 135 kilometers east of the city of Antalya. It apparently dated back to the <\/span>Paleolithic era but became significantly prominent around the 4th century BC when it was known as Coracesium.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">It later flourished under Roman and Byzantine rule before becoming a key city in the Seljuk Sultanate in the 13th century. Today it&#8217;s home to around 312,000 residents as well as being a popular tourist destination with no less than three blue flag beaches.<\/p>\n<p>I flew directly into Antalya Airport and then I drove for two hours to the city and stayed for a dreamy week at the gorgeous boutique <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/sunpark-marine.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-326619_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-12_dow-Saturday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-gb_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250614_ppt-G_lp-2826_r-61892125836819531&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=32661908_393100462_2_41_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-14&amp;checkout=2025-06-15&amp;dest_id=-734728&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=32661908_393100462_2_41_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=32661908_393100462_2_41_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=32661908_393100462_2_41_0__17366&amp;srepoch=1748890363&amp;srpvid=5f4c84bb1bbc04ff&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cook&#8217;s Club Alanya<\/a> mostly relaxing in the swimming pool and the <span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">famous Cleopatra Beach.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">Although, I also <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">explored the historic Alanya Castle and its Red Tower, ventured into the Damlatas Caves which had incredible stalactites, enjoyed panoramic views from the Alanya Cable Car, went river rafting in the pretty Dim \u00c7ayi Valley, learnt about the area&#8217;s interesting history at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kulturportali.gov.tr\/turkiye\/antalya\/gezilecekyer\/alanya-arkeoloji-muzesi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Archaeology and Ethnography Museum<\/a> and sampled the local cuisine in the bustling Alanya Bazaar.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for enjoying beaches and outdoor attractions).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer: <\/strong>swimming, snorkelling, boat rides, Damlata\u015f Cave, cable car, boat trips.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Alanya,+Antalya,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.5437959,31.9714523,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14dca27b822cd5fb:0xd160c1c8b3dc170b!8m2!3d36.544443!4d31.995408!16zL20vMDNybnJ6?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Hanging out at the cafes that circled the harbour &#8211; it was an awesome experience to drink aromatic T\u00fcrk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee) and rose-flavored lokum at the Ravza Restaurant &amp; Cafe while gazing out at the sea and Alanya Castle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">12. Side<img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643199 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Side Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.webp 1066w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.jpg?resize=1000%2C675&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"675\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.jpg?resize=1000%2C675&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.jpg?resize=640%2C432&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.jpg?resize=768%2C519&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Side.jpg?w=1066&amp;ssl=1 1066w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632659 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Side port city in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">I really enjoyed visiting this coastal town! I thought it was very <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">picturesque with a unique mix of both ancient history and natural beauty. I saw striking Greco-Roman architectural ruins set against a backdrop of long golden sandy beaches framed by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. I really liked its small beach town vibe which was mixed with an old-world charm.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"d4d688c9-8add-4eba-8254-7b7d82278d0b\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"142\">Established around the 7th century BC as a Greek colony I discovered it located on the Antalya Province, situated between the cities of Antalya and Alanya on the southern Mediterranean coast of the country.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"142\">I drove an hour from Antalya and spent a relaxing three days at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/side-aquamarine-resort-amp-spa.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAso5AFCHnNpZGUtYXF1YW1hcmluZS1yZXNvcnQtYW1wLXNwYUgzWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBDIgCAagCA7gCr_nVwgbAAgHSAiQwMzNlNzNmZC04YjBkLTRiMTAtOGJiMy1jMGUyZDAwMzM3NWXYAgbgAgE&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;checkin=2025-09-07&amp;checkout=2025-09-08&amp;dest_id=900039392&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;soh=1&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1750432956&amp;srpvid=86ed6c18b4501463&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;#no_availability_msg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Side Aquamarin Resort &amp; Spa<\/a> which had a private beach and I squeezed in exploring the interesting ancient ruins of the Roman amphitheater and Temple of Apollo, strolled along the charming harbor, relaxed on the stunning East and West Beaches, shopped in the local markets, and dined in the charming waterfront restaurants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for warm, pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>: visiting Roman ruins, beach relaxation, boat tours, shopping.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Side,+Manavgat%2FAntalya,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.7898681,31.2837196,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c3598de8ddfd4d:0xeda826ac64e176dc!8m2!3d36.776873!4d31.397644!16zL20vMGxqaHc?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tying \u015eak\u015fuka which was a delicious cold meze of fried eggplants, potatoes, and peppers topped with a rich tomato and garlic sauce and generously drizzled with olive oil.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s1\">13. Ayvalik <\/span><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643198 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ayvalik Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"662\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C509&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s1\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"666\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ayvalik.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632654 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Ayvalik village in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/span><\/p>\n<p>This was one of my favorite under-the-radar destinations! I actually thought it was one of the <span class=\"s1\">prettiest coastal towns I&#8217;d visited in the country with its charming<\/span>, narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Greek-style buildings, gorgeous beaches filled with soft, golden sands and clean, clear waters which were a striking shade of turquoise. I was also sucked in by its laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere and its slight bohemian vibe and artistic flair!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I found it nestled on the Greek island of Lesbos on northwestern Aegean coast of the country (near the city of Bal\u0131kesir). It dates back to the 16th century when it was established as a significant settlement during the Ottoman Empire and was mostly populated by Greeks so today it has a fascination mix of both Greek and Turkish <span class=\"s1\">cultures as well as a population of 30,000 permanent residents.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I took a 5 hour bus ride from Istanbul and stayed for a very relaxing four days at the chic and trendy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/ayvalik-sea-long.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-10305218_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-1_dow-Tuesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250603_ppt-_lp-2826_r-3290672191549083538&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=1030521804_400974288_0_1_0&amp;checkin=2025-06-03&amp;checkout=2025-06-04&amp;dest_id=-737034&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=1030521804_400974288_0_1_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=1030521804_400974288_0_1_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=1030521804_400974288_0_1_0__15300&amp;srepoch=1748890828&amp;srpvid=faf385a31a6806c5&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ayval\u0131k Sea Long<\/a>. I found that was enough time to explore the historic Cunda Island which had quaint streets and restored stone houses, sample the local olive oil-based dishes, relax on the pristine Sar\u0131msakl\u0131 Beach, visit the ancient Taksiyarhis Church turned museum, and take a scenic boat ride to the surrounding archipelago, which included the Ayval\u0131k Islands Nature Park which I saw was a ecological paradise!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: northwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for enjoying the coastal town and sea breeze).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong> relaxing on beaches, swimming, historic sites and nature park<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Ayval%C4%B1k,+Bal%C4%B1kesir,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@39.3336007,26.6675208,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14ba7677119d3691:0x136a47873966c6ac!8m2!3d39.319185!4d26.692387!16zL20vMDl3MzB0?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Trying Zeytinya\u011fl\u0131 Barbunya which was a hearty dish of creamy borlotti beans slowly cooked with tomatoes, onions, carrots, and plenty of delicious local olive oil!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">14. Icmeler<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.jpg?resize=1000%2C596&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"596\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.jpg?resize=640%2C381&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.jpg?resize=768%2C458&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Icmeler.jpg?resize=150%2C89&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770854 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Icmeler City\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\"><span class=\"s1\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.webp 1206w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C519&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"519\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C519&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C332&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C399&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/places-to-go-in-turkey.jpg?w=1206&amp;ssl=1 1206w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632660 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Icmeler resort in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I was completely charmed by this popular beach resort town! I found a gem filled with stunning natural beauty with broad sandy beaches that gently sloped into the ultra-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, tasteful low-rise buildings and a striking backdrop of wonderful green mountains! It felt relaxing and welcoming and I thought was ideal for families and couples seeking a more peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist spots.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I discovered it located on the Datcha Peninsula, around 8 kilometers southwest of Marmaris, in the province of Mugla on the southwestern coast of the country. It was once a sleepy fishing village, has transformed into a popular tourist destination with a population that swells significantly during the summer months.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I drove 15 minutes from the busier resort of Marmaris and stayed there for four days mostly just kicking back and relaxing on the beach. Although I also went <span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">scuba diving and jet skiing, hiked through pine-forested trails in the surrounding mountains, enjoyed a boat trip to explore the nearby islands, and checked out the bustling markets (I loved the fresh mulberries and simit, sesame-encrusted bread rings) and local eateries serving up traditional Turkish cuisine!<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for beach activities and crystal clear waters).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong> sunbathing, swimming, scenic hikes, jet skiing, parasailing, boat trips, market<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/%C4%B0%C3%A7meler,+Marmaris%2FMu%C4%9Fla,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@36.7972392,28.2063174,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14bfbf3fea85085b:0xea49dae840e774f!8m2!3d36.802391!4d28.224899!16s%2Fm%2F02pl12r?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>I really liked how <span class=\"s1\">spotless and pristine looking the beach was! There were also plenty of toilets and showers for public use, a lifeguard and water sports equipment rentals including jet skis and paddle-boards!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">15. Koprulu Canyon<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643203 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Koprulu Canyon\" width=\"1000\" height=\"666\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643204 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C448&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Koprulu Canyon Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"448\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C448&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C287&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C344&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Koprulu-Canyon-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I loved this stunning natural gorge! I found breathtaking scenery consisting of <span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">towering rocky cliffs, unspoilt Mediterranean vegetation, and clear turquoise waters of the K\u00f6pr\u00fc\u00e7ay River. I really liked how it exuded both <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">an adventurous and exhilarating vibe!&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"48a147de-bc33-4d44-a328-e4f19d18ba5a\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"163\">I found it tucked like like a hidden jewel in the Antalya Province of Turkey, around 90 kilometers northeast of Antalya city, within the K\u00f6pr\u00fcl\u00fc Canyon National Park. It was established in 1973, is home to the rare Anatolian leopard, mountain goats, foxes, and a range of birds and it attracts outdoor adventure and nature lovers.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"163\">I drove 1.5 hours from Antalya and stayed for full day. I went whitewater rafting and kayaking on the K\u00f6pr\u00fc\u00e7ay River, hiked scenic trails and saw views of the ancient Roman Oluk Bridge and B\u00fc\u011fr\u00fcm Bridge and zip-lining across the gorge, which was a little scary but a lot of fun too!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (for rafting and other outdoor activities).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>: whitewater rafting, hiking, camping, kayaking<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/K%C3%B6pr%C3%BCl%C3%BC+Canyon+National+Park\/@37.2026237,30.7701985,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14c3593458bc0a2b:0xcd64ea3414af90c4!8m2!3d37.1917224!4d31.1808719!16s%2Fm%2F02qx8pd?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying overnight at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Hotel_Review-g297962-d13877810-Reviews-Gokcesu_Camping_Rafting-Antalya_Turkish_Mediterranean_Coast.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">G\u00f6k\u00e7esu Camping Site<\/a> &#8211; I really liked their facilities which included a good sized <span class=\"relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem] transition-colors duration-100 ease-in-out\">shower block, a market, cute picnic tables right by the river, laundry facilities and even organized rafting activities on the K\u00f6pr\u00fc\u00e7ay River!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<h2>16. Ankara<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.webp 1024w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=1024%2C659&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"659\" width=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C412&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C644&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C494&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-637907 alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Ankara city Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C755&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"755\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C483&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C580&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Mosque-Ankara-Turkey.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-770855 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Mosque Ankara in Turkey \" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>This is the capital city of Turkey! I thought it was easy-on-the eye city and I really liked its striking contrast between the ancient Ankara Castle and the modern architectural skyline as well as its green parks and avenues lined with impressive embassies and stately museums. There were some areas with a less charming urban sprawl and congestion but overall I really liked its sophisticated and youthful energy which was driven by its large student population!<\/p>\n<p>I found it located in the central part of the country, positioned in the heart of the Anatolian plateau and <span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">was established as the capital of Turkey in 1923 to centralize governance away from the Ottoman imperial capital of Istanbul. It currently has a population of over 5.5 million people and is a hub for political, educational, and cultural activities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I flew into Esenbo\u011fa Airport and stayed for a long weekend at the romantic and unique hotel <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/tr\/divan-cukurhan-ankara.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-1FCAMo5AFCBmFua2FyYUgJWANoUIgBAZgBCbgBB8gBDNgBAegBAfgBAogCAagCA7gC7PnVwgbAAgHSAiQ3Zjk3ZTc3Yi05N2Y4LTRkOTktYmQzOC0zYzc5NzNmZjc5MWXYAgXgAgE&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=24883202_198463956_2_2_0_456668&amp;checkin=2025-09-07&amp;checkout=2025-09-08&amp;dest_id=-735338&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;highlighted_blocks=24883202_198463956_2_2_0_456668&amp;hpos=5&amp;matching_block_id=24883202_198463956_2_2_0_456668&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=24883202_198463956_2_2_0_456668_13200&amp;srepoch=1750433021&amp;srpvid=26dd6c3721b000db&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Divan Cukurhan<\/a> and that was enough time to discover its main sights.<\/p>\n<p>I visited the impressive An\u0131tkabir (the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atat\u00fcrk), explored the ancient Ankara Castle, discovered the city&#8217;s intriguing history at the <a href=\"https:\/\/muze.gov.tr\/muze-detay?SectionId=AMM01&amp;DistId=AMM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Museum of Anatolian Civilizations<\/a>, enjoyed a picnic in Gen\u00e7lik Park, and shopped for crafts and spices at the historic Ulus Market.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: central part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for exploring the city comfortably).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong> historic sights, shopping, city views<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Ankara,+T%C3%BCrkiye\/@39.9032599,32.597955,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14d347d520732db1:0xbdc57b0c0842b8d!8m2!3d39.9333635!4d32.8597419!16zL20vMGp5dw?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stocking up on the aromatic spices of sumac, pul biber (crushed red pepper), and dried mint ready to try Turkish cooking for when I got back home!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">17. Dilek Peninsula-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park &#8211;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.webp 800w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=800%2C449&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"449\" width=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C359&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Dilek-Peninsula-Buyuk-Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C431&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-632651 size-full sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Dilek Peninsula-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643196 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Menderes Delta National Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Menderes-Delta-National-Park.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p3\">I really loved this unspoiled hidden gem! I thought this protected area was a beauty spot too with its rugged mountain landscapes, historic pine forests, its diverse mix of pebble and pristine sandy beaches, intriguing ancient ruins and quaint park buildings. I particularly enjoyed how tranquil it felt here &#8211; it felt very far away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular resorts!<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 px-6\">\n<div class=\"mx-auto flex flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn @xs\/thread:px-0 @sm\/thread:px-1.5 @md\/thread:px-4\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"4944e86f-82ea-4537-be6f-5d5c25ec1ea9\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"260\">I found it tucked away along the Aegean Sea in the Ayd\u0131n Province on the western coast of the country (near the town of Ku\u015fadas\u0131). It spans an area of around 27,598 hectares and is filled with a large range of diverse marine and wildlife including the rare Anatolian leopard, wild boars, foxes, jackals, lynxes, sea turtles, and an array of bird species such as flamingos, pelicans, and kingfishers.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"260\">I took a 30 minute car drive from Ku\u015fadas\u0131 and spent a full day here exploring. I spent my time hiking the stunning Karasu Kanyonu trail, spotting wildlife at the Great Menderes Delta, and relaxing on my favorite beaches Icmeler and Ayd\u0131nl\u0131k.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: western part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for wildlife viewing and moderate temperatures).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer:<\/strong>&nbsp;hiking, relaxing on beaches, swimming in the Cave of Zeus, birdwatching, cycling and exploring ancient ruins<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Dilek+Peninsula+B%C3%BCy%C3%BCk+Menderes+Delta+National+Park\/@37.6691576,27.1813521,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14bea92e37f36be1:0x6d1a9fb097d2335!8m2!3d37.6691576!4d27.183927!16s%2Fg%2F11bc5xn5kp?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favourite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Discovering the interesting Cave of Zeus and swimming in the emerald-green natural pool which was atmospherically surrounded by hanging ivy, mossy rocks, and echoing cavern walls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. Temple of Hadrian<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643206 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Temple of Hadrian\" width=\"1000\" height=\"669\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C669&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-2.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.webp 960w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.webp 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.jpg?resize=960%2C642&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"642\" width=\"960\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.jpg?w=960&amp;ssl=1 960w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.jpg?resize=768%2C514&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Temple-of-Hadrian-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" class=\"wp-image-632676 size-full alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Temple of Hadrian, Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p>This was an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the Emperor Hadrian! I thought the whole place was very eye-catching with its intricate fa\u00e7ade adorned with detailed figures from mythology and Ephesian history all set against a well-preserved Roman temple design.<\/p>\n<p>It felt tranquil and mysterious as I walked around and I particularly loved how the four Corinthian columns supported a graceful arch topped with a relief of Tyche, the goddess of fortune!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I found it hidden away in the ancient city of Ephesus, near the modern-day town of Sel\u00e7uk in the \u0130zmir Province. Ephesus was an ancient Greek city later Romanized, dating back to the 10th century BC.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">I flew into \u0130zmir Adnan Menderes Airport from Istanbul which took an hour and then I took an hour&#8217;s bus ride to the site and spent two days in Ephesus.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sr-only\">As well as spending half a day at the Temple of Hadrian I explored the remarkably preserved Library of Celsus, walked through the Great Theatre where St. Paul once preached, visited the Temple of Artemis &#8211; one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, strolled along the historic Marble Road, and gazed at the striking Terrace Houses where I was in awe of the intricate mosaics and frescoes.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: western part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: spring (for comfortable sightseeing conditions).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>: sightseeing, exploring ancient architecture, photography.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Temple+of+Hadrian\/@37.938523,27.3394276,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14bead462646e079:0x557193a27e3b3900!8m2!3d37.938523!4d27.3420025!16s%2Fg%2F122kzkp7?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Being impressed by the entrance at the Temple of Hadrian &#8211; it had intricately inscribed pedestals where statues of emperors once stood. And inside, I found an awesome Medusa sculpture framed by acanthus leaves right above the door!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">19. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643197 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C599&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Iztuzu Beach Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"599\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C599&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C383&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C460&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Iztuzu_strand.JPG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"563\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Iztuzu-Beach-Dalyan.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"wp-image-632648 size-large alignnone sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Iztuzu Beach in Turkey\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This was another of my favorite hidden gems! Also known as Turtle Beach, I also thought the natural spot was stunning with long stretch of unspoilt golden sand surrounded by rugged rolling hills dotted with viewing areas. I was completely won over by the very quiet, eco-conscious and natural vibe of the place and how it made a great alternative to the commercialized tourist destinations.<\/p>\n<p>I fond it tucked away in near the town of Dalyan in the Ortaca district of Mu\u011fla Province. It stretches around 4.5 kilometers along the southwestern coast and is known notably for its Lycian rock tombs and is also a crucial nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles, with peak nesting from May to September and this is when visitors can witness these turtles making their journey to the sea.<\/p>\n<p>I flew into Dalaman Airport and then I drove to Dalyan town going on an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/didim-l190855\/didim-dalyan-tour-with-turtle-beach-mud-bath-lunch-t476226\/?ranking_uuid=c9fab450-c55c-4678-843c-b35f8a56302f\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">organized riverboat tour<\/a> from there as this was the best way to see the nesting turtles, as well as spot birdlife along the river (I saw kingfishers and storks) and relax in a therapeutic mud bath in the local thermal springs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I also had time to<span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"> explore the ancient Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliffs, relax on the pristine Iztuzu Beach and visit the interesting archaeological site of Kaunos which had well-preserved amphitheater and temples.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: southwestern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: summer (to witness loggerhead turtle nesting season).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Activities on offer<\/strong>: swimming, turtle watching, sunbathing, boat trips.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/%C4%B0ztuzu+Beach\/@36.7930256,28.6088163,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x14bf88fd7100ad91:0x45deb1496fa5c833!8m2!3d36.7930266!4d28.619116!16s%2Fg%2F11g_xsz8_w?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>I loved learning from the b<span class=\"s1\">each officials there how they stake off nesting sites and to protect them from overly curious tourists and predators!&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"p3\">20. Kure Mountains National Park<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-643209 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Kure Mountains National Park\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-643210 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Kure Mountains Turkey\" width=\"1000\" height=\"563\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains-Turkey.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains-Turkey.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains-Turkey.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/05\/Kure-Mountains-Turkey.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>I was really wowed by this off-the-beaten track protected area! I found a destination filled with breathtaking natural beauty, with green historic forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountain landscapes. To me, it felt peaceful, untouched and very and far away from the crowds in the popular resorts!<\/p>\n<p>I found it tucked away in northern Turkey and spanned both the provinces of Kastamonu and Bartin and it was established in the year 2000 to preserve the incredible biodiversity here. It&#8217;s home to wolves, brown bears, lynx, roe deer, and <span class=\"s1\">over 129 bird species including golden eagles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>I drove three hours from Ankara (the capital city) and spent a peaceful two days here and hiked through the Ilgarini Cave (which is one of the deepest caves in the whole country), explored the stunning Horma Canyon which had breathtaking waterfalls and relaxed by the pristine rivers and natural pools.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location<\/strong>: northern part of the country.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Best time to visit<\/strong>: autumn (to make the most of the foliage and pleasant hiking).<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.co.uk\/maps\/place\/Horma+Canyon+(Kure+Mountains+National+Park)\/@41.6340196,33.1407549,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x409b2ce32d9838e7:0xbc0a0b5a86b47a10!8m2!3d41.6340196!4d33.1433298!16s%2Fm%2F01180d6k?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Map Location and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Finding huge stalactites, old Byzantine chapel ruins, and even soot-covered cave ceilings which the guide told me were used by early Christian monks in the fascinating Ilgarini Cave.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Location of Turkey<\/h2>\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto py-5 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @[37rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @[70rem]:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(12)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:32rem] @[34rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @[64rem]:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto flex max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 text-base gap-4 md:gap-5 lg:gap-6 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"group\/conversation-turn relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-5\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"d86dbdfc-cd70-4317-b77b-9aaed1ec115a\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-4\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[3px]\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full break-words light\">\n<p class=\"\" data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"213\">Turkey is located partly in Europe and partly in Asia, bordered by Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Syria, <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/europe\/10-beautiful-places-visit-greece\/\">Greece<\/a>, Bulgaria, and across the Mediterranean Sea to the south, it is near the island of <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/europe\/10-beautiful-places-visit-cyprus\/\">Cyprus<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In my opinion, Turkey offers so much more than crowded resorts. I explored beyond the crowds to discover ancient architecture and stunning landscapes, from snow-like natural wonders to hippy beach retreats. Here are my top picks from my many visits&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":775761,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,20],"tags":[3575],"class_list":["post-587625","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-travel","tag-turkey","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/My-photo-of-Bodrum-Bay-in-summer-2024.jpg?fit=2160%2C1440&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/587625","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=587625"}],"version-history":[{"count":98,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/587625\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":777737,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/587625\/revisions\/777737"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/775761"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=587625"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=587625"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=587625"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}