The Spellbinding Peak of Nemrut Dağı
High in the Anatolian heartland rises Nemrut Dağı (Mount Nemrut), a 7,000-foot peak crowned with a site unlike any other in Turkey. Here, colossal stone heads stare pitilessly into the distance—their features partly mutilated, partly worn by centuries of wind and time—creating an atmosphere both haunting and awe-inspiring. A Monument to a Kingdom In 62 […]
Şanlıurfa and the Pool of Sacred Fish
About 180 kilometres (110 miles) west of Kızıltepe, in South Eastern Anatolia, lies the venerable old town of Şanlıurfa The southeastern province was once one of the oldest settlements in Mesopotamia. Formerly known as “Urfa,” the city took the title “Şanlı” – meaning glorious, dignified – in 1984 in memory of the achievement of its people in […]
Zafer Bayramı (Victory Day) – a day of national pride
Every nation has days that hold special significance, and for Turkey, one of the most important is August 30: Zafer Bayramı (Victory Day). After the Ottoman Empire’s defeat at the end of World War I, Turkey faced occupation by Allied forces. This sparked the Turkish War of Independence, which began in 1919 under the leadership […]
Five of Turkey’s most special beach hideaways
This article was written by James Stewart and first published in The Telegraph. Prefer to get away from the crowds on holiday? These secluded beach spots could be exactly what you’re looking for… The natural wonders of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast are hardly a secret. So in high season, when its most popular resorts are bustling […]
Discover Turkey: hiking the ways and trails
“The world reveals itself to those who travel on foot.” – Werner Herzog Turkey is a land of mountains, breathtaking scenery, and vast stretches of unspoiled countryside that serve as natural sanctuaries for its remarkable diversity of wildlife, flora, and fauna. The rugged landscape has shaped the country’s cultural heritage for centuries. Nomadic and semi-nomadic […]
Turkish cuisine: specialities of different regions
Turkish food culture and cuisine are rich, diverse, and steeped in history. Each region of Turkey offers its own unique flavours and culinary traditions, making Turkish cuisine a vibrant and flavorful experience. From the rich olive oils of the Aegean to the spicy kebabs of the Southeast, the country’s diverse landscape is mirrored in its […]
Seven incredible train journeys in Turkey
Turkey’s rail network remains one of the country’s best-kept tourism secrets, still seldom utilized by foreign travelers. While the fast YHT (high-speed) network efficiently connects Istanbul with cities like Eskişehir, Konya, Ankara, and Sivas, it’s the older routes that truly stand out. These traditional lines meander through rural Turkey, offering scenic, slow-travel journeys that showcase […]
Kaunos: a melting pot of Carian and Lycian traditions
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of southwestern Turkey, the ancient city of Kaunos lies just a few kilometers west of the modern town of Dalyan. This historic site, bordering the ancient kingdoms of Caria and Lycia, offers a unique blend of cultural influences from both regions. Its strategic location and rich history make Kaunos a […]
Recipe: Yoghurt with Cucumber (Cacık)
A great dish for hot summer days, cacık (‘JAH’-juck) is a cool, refreshing blend of cucumber, yoghurt, and mint that’s a firm summer favourite. Served as a meze or alongside grilled meats, vegetables, casseroles, or spicy dishes, it’s also a perfect partner for BBQs. Made with thicker yoghurt such as süzme or Greek, it transforms […]
Enticing, exquisite, delectable figs
Did you know? Turkey is the world’s leading producer of both fresh and dried figs (incir) — and it’s no wonder they’re a staple in the Turkish diet. In summer, they’re eaten straight from the tree (sometimes quite literally), while in winter they’re enjoyed dried. If you’re in Fethiye now or planning a late-summer trip, […]