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 and summer parties are in full swing, you might want to escape somewhere quieter for the day, to find a beach or a bar practically to yourself. Here are five fabulous secret beach spots on the Turkish Riviera.

Datça

For a long time, the winding road along the spindly Datça Peninsula was so bad that Datça was practically off limits to all but those with yachts – and that’s precisely why it remains so unspoilt.

It’s still quickest and easiest to get there by sea; just hop on a boat across the bay from Bodrum. But now you can also take the scenic route through olive groves and pine-forested mountains for the 20-odd miles from Marmaris. Charming Old Datça (Eski Datça) has been smartened up in recent years, with chic bars, restaurants and boutique hotels – and the coast has beautiful bays. One of the loveliest is Ovabükü, set against a verdant backdrop.

Selimiye

The most rustic of the resorts on the Bozburun peninsula west of Marmaris has no large hotels, no themed pubs and no grip on the 21st century.

The former fishing village is on a mirror calm bay, a ribbon of crusty terracotta roofs on dusty lanes. Nightlife means a glass of aniseed raki after whichever fish restaurant took your fancy, then a moonlit stroll to bed. If you are looking to do nothing more pressing than rise late, sunbathe on dreamy beaches (Kumlubük is the region’s best), read and eat, you’ll fit right in.

Orhaniye

The mellow Bozburun Peninsula, nosing into the blue where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, is a corner of Turkey that is somehow overlooked, though it’s not far from Marmaris and Bodrum.

It was made for seafarers, with its sleepy fishing villages and gulet-building yards and its calm, beautiful bays. Swim at Orhaniye, a gorgeous bay of sapphire blue with a curious sand spit just below the surface, where you can walk as though on water. Afterwards, bag yourself a hammock at the back of the beach.

Çıralı

Çıralı could be a whopper. Its two-mile beach is a scimitar of fine shingle wedged between rocky spurs. Ripe for commercialisation, then. But because loggerhead turtles lay their eggs here, development is forbidden – which is why Çıralı today is a mellow family resort that feels more distant than its hour from Antalya. That it’s a dead end helps.

Largely car-free, verdant with citrus and pomegranate trees, Çıralıremains a place to potter: hotel, beach, restaurant, repeat. Magic. The ancients thought so too. They saw the natural flames flickering from rocks as evidence of monsters at nearby Chimaera. At the other end of the beach is ancient Olympos. Unleash your inner Indiana Jones among the ruins.

Kabak

There’s not much to Kabak. Thank heavens for that. While boat taxis ferry day trippers from Fetihye to Butterfly Valley, Kabak, the next cove south, cradled by craggy, pine-cloaked hills, retains a soulful off-the-radar atmosphere: reed-roofed shades on the beach (beautiful, incidentally); a few cafés selling homemade food; some lovely, simple accommodation.

That’s about it. Access is on a dirt road. You could cajole a taxi driver in Ölüdeniz to go. More satisfying is to walk in on the Lycian Way from Butterfly Valley. Over three spirit-soaring hours, crowds fall behind and the scenery takes over. Your reward afterwards? A dip in cerulean seas. Bliss.

Turkey – step into a world of delights

Turkey is a diverse country with stunning beaches, great food, spectacular scenery, ancient history and nightlife to suit all tastes.

Jet2 off to Turkey and step into a world of delights. Take your pick from four destinations—Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman, or Izmir—and explore the stunning Turquoise Coast. From ancient ruins to bustling marinas and glamorous waterfronts, there’s no shortage of sights and experiences. With excellent value, a wide selection of hotels and restaurants, and a variety of holiday packages to suit every budget, Turkey promises an unforgettable getaway.

To make a booking visit jet2holidays.com

Featured image: Çıralı Beach courtesy of Tournal.com

This article was first published on 7 August 2018 and updated on 18 August 2025.

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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 communities once moved with their herds each year to the fresh mountain pastures, known as yayla. These alpine meadows continue to symbolise a living connection to Turkey’s enduring traditions.

Hiking

Hiking offers the perfect escape from the crowds, opening the door to the real Turkey—where breathtaking landscapes, remote historic sites, traditional villages, and warm, welcoming locals await.

While dedicated hikers may be drawn to the rugged interior and the dramatic mountains of the east, even a short walk inland from the busiest coastal resorts can feel like stepping into another world.

For those seeking a challenge, Turkey boasts three official long-distance trails: the Lycian Way—named by the Sunday Times as one of the world’s top ten walks—the St Paul Trail, and the Carian Trail.

Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is a 540km waymarked trail stretching along the coast from Fethiye to Antalya. It takes its name from the ancient Lycian civilisation, whose legacy is still visible today in the striking rock-carved tombs scattered across the region.

This dramatic stretch of coastline offers walkers a mix of breathtaking scenery and varied terrain. Wooded mountains rise steeply from the sea, providing spectacular views, while the path weaves past some of the area’s most remote historic sites.

The trail is graded medium to hard—not a flat coastal stroll but a route of steady ascents and descents as it approaches and retreats from the shoreline. The first sections near Fethiye are gentler, becoming progressively more challenging further east.

The best times to walk the Lycian Way are spring (February–May) and autumn (September–November). Summers are hot, though shorter, shaded stretches can still be enjoyed. The route follows ancient footpaths and mule tracks, mostly across limestone, which can be hard and stony underfoot.

Highlights of the Lycian Way

Discover more about the beaches along the Lycian Way in Lisa Morrow’s article.

Turkey’s Lycian Way: An epic hike with beautiful beaches at every turn

St Paul Trail

The St Paul Trail is a newer waymarked footpath stretching for around 500km from Perge, 10km east of Antalya, to Yalvaç, northeast of Lake Eğirdir. A second branch begins at Aspendos, 40km east of Antalya, and joins the main route at the Roman city of Adada.

Partly following the path taken by St Paul on his first missionary journey through Asia Minor, the trail begins at sea level and climbs to 2,200m, with two optional peaks reaching around 2,800m.

Wilder and more rugged than the Lycian Way, the St Paul Trail is also higher and cooler during the summer months. Walkers can enjoy a mix of experiences—some days traversing ridges and summits, others winding through forests, farmland, and ancient villages.villages.

Sütcüler

Early on the trail lies the town of Sütcüler, once an important Ottoman administrative centre. In the town centre stands a mosque from that era, while the ruins of a Roman settlement can be found on a nearby hill. The surrounding gorges were once crossed by ancient pilgrimage routes, and the area was known as Bavul, in honour of St Paul.

The second part of the walk leads over the shoulder of Mt Davras (2,635m) and across the İsparta plain, before two rewarding days of trekking in the Barla Mountains. Here, hikers have the option to summit Gelincik Dağı (2,799m) and Mt Kaymaz (2,250m).

An overnight stay in Barla precedes the route’s descent to the lakeside town of Eğirdir, where you can climb Sivri Dağı, relax in a traditional Turkish bath (hamam), or cool off with a swim in the lake.

Highlights of the St Paul Trail

The Carian Trail – Turkey’s Longest Coastal Hiking Trail

The Carian Trail is an 800km long-distance walking route in southwest Turkey, stretching from Bodrum and Karpuzlu on the Aegean coast, around the Gulf of Gökova, and on to Içmeler by the Mediterranean. Officially opened in 2013, it quickly became a rival to the famed Lycian Way as one of Turkey’s most remarkable treks.

Named after the ancient Carian civilisation, the trail winds through a landscape steeped in history. Stone-paved caravan routes and old mule paths link coastal villages with the mountainous interior, leading hikers into an unspoiled region rich in colour, tradition, and timeless charm.

Waymarked to international standards, the Carian Trail welcomes both independent walkers and guided groups to experience its blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Along the way, hikers can swim from deserted turquoise bays, climb through pine-scented forests to hidden ruins, and gaze out across the dramatic Aegean coastline to the Greek islands.

The journey is filled with unexpected discoveries: wild mountain goats roaming the remote Datça Peninsula, traditional boatbuilding in Bozburun, Neolithic cave art near Lake Bafa, and handwoven village carpets crafted on ancient looms. For those seeking both adventure and authenticity, the Carian Trail offers an unforgettable experience.

Carian Trail consists of four main sections:

Bozburun Peninsula

Datça Peninsula

Gulf of Gokova

Carian Hinterland

One alternative section:

Muğla Environs

For more information on these routes, visit:

www.lycianway.com

Culture Routes Society: St Paul Trail

www.cariantrail.com

Sources: Discover Turkey/Culture Routes Society

This article was first published on 15 January 2019 and updated on 18 August 2025.

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Roses Express: İzmir to Isparta

This daily train is a must for lovers of classical history. The 10-hour journey winds through the coastal plains of the Aegean and into the hilly terrain of western Anatolia, but the real pleasure lies in the stops along the way to explore the region’s ancient ruins. The train stops at Selçuk station, just three miles from the UNESCO-listed Ephesus ruins, and at Denizli station, the gateway to Pamukkale’s travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis. Its final stop is Isparta, the entry point to the mountaintop ruins of Sagalassos. 

Eastern Express: Ankara to Kars

The daily Eastern Express covers 814 miles through the high plateaus and mountainous landscapes of northeast Anatolia. In winter, when snow blankets the peaks and plains, it becomes one of Turkey’s most stunning journeys. Most travelers bring their own picnic instead of relying on the basic dining car, settling in for the 26-hour trip in either Pullman seats or four-berth shared couchette sleeper compartments. From December to March, the pricier Touristic Eastern Express departs three times a week, offering two-berth private sleeper compartments and including stops for excursions in historic cities.

Taurus Express: Konya to Adana

This passenger train travels along the historic railway line carved through the Taurus Mountains between 1904 and 1918, cutting across the Cilician Gates mountain pass once traversed by Alexander the Great. Originally designed as the northern section of the Baghdad Railway, the route is flanked by steep, forested slopes and deep gorges, passing through numerous tunnels and crossing the 320-foot-high stone Varda Viaduct, famously featured in the 2012 Bond film Skyfall. The seven-hour, daily Taurus Express connects Konya with Adana, an excellent starting point for exploring the castles and ruins of Turkey’s eastern Mediterranean region.

Pamukkale Express: Eskişehir to Denizli

The nine-hour Pamukkale Express connects the vibrant arts hub of Eskişehir with Denizli, the gateway to Pamukkale and Hierapolis, offering a front-row view of the rural heartland of northwest Anatolia. The northern stretch of the journey winds through valleys once ruled by the Iron Age Phrygian kings, while further south, the landscape opens into expansive farmland framed by fir-forested hills. The train departs daily in both directions, making it an ideal way to experience this picturesque region.

Lake Van Express: Ankara to Tatvan

Two long-distance routes showcase the stunning landscapes of southeast Anatolia, featuring rugged, rock-strewn plateaus, rolling hills, vast lakes, and sprawling orchards and farmland. Both routes cross the Euphrates River at the Karakaya Dam via the 2,030-meter-long Euphrates Railway Bridge, offering some of their most scenic views in spring and autumn. Like the Eastern Express, the dining car is basic, so most passengers bring their own food for onboard picnics.

The twice-weekly Lake Van Express covers 775 miles over 26 hours, traveling between Ankara and Tatvan on the western shore of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake, spanning 1,435 square miles. Tatvan is the gateway to Van, a city that serves as the ideal base for exploring Turkey’s southeastern corner, including the renowned Akdamar Church, an Armenian artistic masterpiece. Travelers can choose from Pullman seating, four-berth shared couchette compartments, or two-bed private sleeper cabins for their journey.

South Express: Ankara to Diyarbakır

The South Express meanders 653 miles between Ankara and the ancient walled city of Diyarbakır, a perfect introduction to the rich heritage of southeastern Turkey. Diyarbakır, known for its ancient monuments, Kurdish culture, and historic bridges spanning the Tigris River, is a highlight of the journey. The regular 22-hour South Express runs five times a week at a fraction of the cost of the Touristic Diyarbakır Express, which covers the same route in 24 hours. Departing once a month, the touristic version includes stops for excursions in Malatya when heading east, and in Yolçatı (for Harput Castle) and Kayseri when heading west.

Sivas-Samsun Railway

This eight-hour route links Sivas, a city renowned for its stunning 13th-century Seljuk-era architecture, with the Black Sea port of Samsun, home to the Amisos Treasures—a remarkable collection of golden artifacts now showcased in the new Samsun Museum. Running three times a week in both directions, the train leisurely winds through hills dotted with farms before passing by the Canık Mountains. For a more relaxed journey, consider breaking it into two stages by stopping in Amasya, where the cliffside tombs of Pontic kings overlook charming Ottoman houses lining the Yeşilırmak River below.

For ticket details, including pricing, availability, and booking options, please visit: https://bilet.tcdd.gov.tr/

Source: National Geographic

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Historical Background

Founded as a Carian city, Kaunos was strategically positioned on the border with Lycia, which led to a fascinating fusion of Carian and Lycian cultural elements. This dual influence is evident in the city’s architecture, inscriptions, and artifacts. The city thrived as an important port and trading center due to its advantageous position along the Mediterranean coast and its access to the inland areas via the Dalyan River.

Kaunos is renowned for its well-preserved urban layout and diverse architectural styles. Among the most striking features are the ancient city walls, which still stand as a testament to the city’s historical significance and defensive needs. The acropolis, perched on a hill, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the river below, providing a glimpse into the strategic importance of Kaunos in ancient times.

The city is also home to an impressive theater, which showcases the typical Greek architectural style and could accommodate around 5,000 spectators. This theater, along with the remains of temples, baths, and an agora (marketplace), indicates the city’s prosperity and its role as a cultural and social hub.

Rock Tombs and Necropolis

One of the most iconic features of Kaunos is its rock-cut tombs, which are carved into the cliffs overlooking the river. These tombs, resembling Lycian-style burial sites, are a remarkable sight and highlight the city’s connection to both Carian and Lycian traditions. The tombs were designed to honor the deceased with elaborate façades and intricate carvings, reflecting the beliefs and artistic skills of the ancient inhabitants.

The necropolis of Kaunos also includes a variety of tomb types, from simple chamber tombs to more complex sarcophagi, illustrating the diversity in burial practices and the social hierarchy of the city’s population.

Kaunos played a crucial role in the ancient economy due to its strategic location as a port city. It facilitated trade between the interior regions of Anatolia and the broader Mediterranean world. The city’s economy was bolstered by the export of agricultural products, particularly figs, salt, and fish, which were highly valued commodities in ancient times.

Culturally, Kaunos was a melting pot where Carian and Lycian traditions intermingled with influences from other Mediterranean civilizations. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s religious practices, art, and daily life. The presence of inscriptions in both the Carian and Greek languages indicates a bilingual society that embraced a blend of indigenous and Hellenistic influences.

Modern-Day Kaunos

Today, Kaunos is an archaeological site that attracts visitors from around the world. Its proximity to Dalyan makes it an accessible destination for tourists interested in exploring ancient history and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The site offers a glimpse into the past, with its ruins providing valuable insights into the lives and achievements of its ancient inhabitants.

Photos by Sami Payne and Norman Clark

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Roughly 30km southeast of Eğirdir, and about 1km north of Aksu by a Roman bridge, the entrance to the kilometre-long Zindan Cave marks the start of an underground journey featuring Byzantine ruins, striking stalactites and stalagmites, and the so-called ‘hamam’ room—a chamber believed to have once served as a ritual bath. The cave also makes a popular cycling day trip from Eğirdir, offering both adventure and historical discovery.

A Journey into the Past

Perched 1,300 metres (4,265 feet) above sea level, Zindan Cave stretches 765 metres into the limestone hills. At its entrance, visitors encounter significant archaeological features: a Roman bridge, the remains of the open-air Eurymedon Temple, and a mosaic thought to depict the river goddess. These elements reflect the cave’s long-standing role as a sacred and cultural site used by ancient pagan, Greek and Roman communities.

Inside the cave, a dramatic landscape unfolds, shaped by thousands of years of mineral deposits. Stalactites, stalagmites and towering columns create a sculptural environment, while a subterranean stream flows steadily over rocks, echoing throughout the cavern. This mineral-rich stream has been scientifically analysed and shown to contain high levels of calcium and magnesium, lending support to local beliefs in its skin-soothing properties.

Nature and Myth Intertwined

Among the cave’s most iconic features is the Eurymedon mosaic, crafted from black, white and red stones and located near the entrance just beyond the Roman bridge. Believed to represent a river goddess, the mosaic suggests the area’s spiritual and cultural importance in antiquity. Engraved stones and scattered columns contribute to the feeling of an open-air museum embedded in the landscape.

Further inside, the cave reveals a space interpreted by archaeologists as a former ritual bath, located near the mosaic and directly linked to the ancient spring. The enduring belief in the therapeutic qualities of the water is partially supported by its composition, rich in beneficial minerals.

A Modern Attraction with Ancient Roots

Today, Zindan Cave attracts around 50,000 visitors annually. Enhancements made during its transformation into a tourist site—such as illuminated walkways and safety features—make it accessible while preserving its natural and historical character. With a consistent internal temperature of 5°C (41°F) year-round, it offers a cool, atmospheric escape from the Mediterranean summer heat.

Zindan Cave stands as a unique blend of natural beauty, archaeological heritage and ecological significance. Whether explored for its geology, its connection to ancient civilisations, or simply for a moment of peace beneath the surface, it remains one of Turkey’s most fascinating underground treasures.

Source: Daily Sabah with AA

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For nearly half a century, lavender cultivation has played a central role in the village’s identity and economy. What began as a hobby among local gardeners has grown into a thriving commercial activity. Today, Kuyucak accounts for more than half of all lavender production in Turkey. According to the Turkish Statistical Institute, the village produces approximately 93% of Turkey’s lavender across 3,000 decares of land.

Lavender is not the only botanical treasure here—cultivators in Kuyucak have long nurtured a variety of naturally growing flowers and herbs. This tradition of cultivation has made the region a hub for aromatic plants, contributing to Turkey’s wider production of essential oils used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and wellness products.

Nestled 47 kilometres from Isparta and perched on a high hill at the edge of the Taurus Mountains, Kuyucak is home to just 260 residents. The local community—many of whom are lavender cultivators—play an active role in preserving and promoting the village’s unique heritage. Their fields paint the surrounding slopes and plains in vibrant shades of purple each June and July, when the lavender begins to flower.

As you stroll through Kuyucak’s cobblestone streets, you’re greeted by various hues of violet and purple, mingling with the soothing aroma of lavender that fills the air. This powerful combination of natural beauty, vivid colour, and aromatic essence creates an atmosphere that delights the senses and calms the mind.

By August, the harvest begins, and the lavender is gathered for the production of essential oils, teas, soaps, and more. Visitors can take part in garden tours, photo safaris, hiking and biking trails, and even learn how to extract lavender oil themselves—experiencing first-hand the magic behind one of Turkey’s most fragrant exports.

The Role of Lavender in Turkey

Lavender essential oil is highly valued in Turkey’s cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. National production has increased dramatically in recent years with an 87% rise. Although domestic production does not yet meet total demand, the growth has helped boost lavender oil exports.

In addition to its calming fragrance, lavender is used in perfumes, soaps, and wellness products. It is praised for its therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, stress reduction, and help with insomnia. Lavender is also used in herbal teas and aromatherapy, and its diuretic and anti-rheumatic properties add to its appeal.

Lavender Honey and Other Local Delights

Kuyucak is also known for its delicate lavender honey, prized for its subtle flavour, lightness, and health benefits. Low in saturated fat and rich in amino acids, minerals, and vitamin C, this honey is a favourite among consumers and nutritionists alike.

Other traditional products include lavender pillows, known for their relaxing effects—especially helpful for those suffering from sleep disorders. These are even used as cushions for babies to promote restful sleep.

Visit Kuyucak: Turkey’s Lavender-Scented Escape

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone in search of tranquillity, Kuyucak Village offers a sensory experience like no other. Visit during lavender season and witness first-hand the stunning union of colour, fragrance, and tradition in Turkey’s Lavender Village.

Source: Daily Sabah/Culture Trip

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Karadağ is home to numerous churches, monasteries, and tombs, forming what is famously known as the “Thousand and One Churches.” The area is sometimes referred to as the ancient city of Barata, although its original name remains uncertain.

The slopes of Karadağ, inhabited by countless civilisations over millennia, bear traces of cultures ranging from the Hittites to the Ottomans.

The churches of Karadağ are more than architectural relics; they are portals to understanding the religious and cultural mosaic of Anatolia. Their styles reflect the influences of the many civilisations that once thrived in the region—from the Byzantines to the Seljuks and beyond.

Among the most notable is the Church of St Stephen, a testament to Byzantine craftsmanship, distinguished by its domed ceilings and intricately crafted mosaics.

Adjacent to the churches lie the remnants of monastic complexes, where devout monks once sought solace and enlightenment. The echoes of their prayers seem to linger in the air, creating an atmosphere of reverence and introspection.

Scattered throughout the area, tombs offer glimpses into ancient burial customs and rituals. Each one tells a story of lives once lived, commemorating the departed in stone and mortar.

Beyond their historical significance, the “Thousand and One Churches” of Karadağ stand as cultural landmarks, bridging past and present. They remind us of the enduring legacy of Anatolian civilisation and the vital importance of preserving our shared heritage for future generations.

Location Map

Further reading: Binbirkilise and Mount Karadağ

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Altınbeşik Lake Cavern, also known as Altınbeşik Mağarası, is not just a cave; it’s an underground marvel waiting to be explored. The cavern stretches over 2.5 kilometers, making it one of the longest underground lakes in the world. Its crystal-clear waters wind their way through intricate limestone formations, creating an otherworldly landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale.

Exploring the Subterranean Wonderland

Venturing into Altınbeşik Lake Cavern is like stepping into another realm. Visitors embark on a journey through narrow passageways adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, each formation a testament to the passage of time. As the cavern opens up to reveal the vast expanse of the underground lake, the sense of awe is palpable.

Guided tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the cavern’s wonders safely. From boat rides on the serene waters of the lake to trekking along its rocky shores, every moment in Altınbeşik Lake Cavern is filled with adventure. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into the geology and history of the cave, adding depth to the experience.

A Sanctuary for Biodiversity

Beyond its geological marvels, Altınbeşik Lake Cavern is also a haven for biodiversity. The underground lake is home to unique species adapted to its dark and secluded environment. Explorers may catch glimpses of blind fish and other creatures that have adapted to thrive in this subterranean world, adding an extra layer of fascination to the journey.

While Altınbeşik Lake Cavern is a testament to the wonders of nature, it is also a fragile ecosystem that requires careful preservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect the cave’s delicate environment and follow guidelines set forth by conservation efforts. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to marvel at its beauty.

Altınbeşik Lake Cavern stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. Its hidden depths hold secrets waiting to be discovered, offering adventurers a glimpse into a world rarely seen by human eyes. As visitors embark on their journey through this subterranean wonderland, they are reminded of the importance of preserving and protecting our planet’s natural treasures for generations to come.

Location Map

Photos courtesy of Daily Sabah

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The name “Pınara,” meaning “round,” originates from the Lycian word “Pilleni,” a reference to the city’s distinctive round-shaped rock formations. Built on steep cliffs, Pınara enchants visitors with its breathtaking natural surroundings and rich historical heritage..

Pınara is believed to have been founded in the 5th century BC by colonists from Xanthos, another significant Lycian city. As one of the six major cities in the Lycian League, Pınara held three votes in the federation, underscoring its political and economic prominence in the region. Its strategic location and strong fortifications made it a vital center of commerce and culture.

The city’s mythology adds to its allure. According to ancient legends, Pınara was founded by Pinaros, the son of Niobe, a figure from Greek mythology. Additionally, Homer’s Iliad mentions a Lycian warrior named Pandaros, who is believed to have hailed from Pınara, further connecting the city to the epic Trojan War.

What sets Pınara apart from other Lycian cities is its mesmerizing landscape. Perched on a steep rock, the city offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The rock tombs carved into the cliffs, resembling a beehive pattern, are among the most striking examples of Lycian funerary architecture. The city also features a well-preserved amphitheater, an agora, a temple dedicated to Aphrodite, and remnants of Roman-era structures.

Pınara’s isolation has contributed to its relatively untouched and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Walking through its ancient ruins feels like stepping back in time, with every path revealing new stories of Lycian life and culture.

Visitor Information

Today, Pınara is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List, a list of properties that a state intends to consider for nomination to the World Heritage List, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. The ancient city is located approximately 5 kilometers west of the Fethiye-Kaş highway, near the village of Minare. Visitors can access the site via a 2-kilometer stabilized road from the village.

Unlike more crowded ancient sites, Pınara offers a peaceful and immersive experience. Its combination of stunning natural beauty and well-preserved ruins makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the lesser-known gems of Lycia. Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveler in search of hidden treasures, Pınara promises an unforgettable journey into the past.

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A Journey Through Time

Xanthos’ history stretches back to the 8th century BC. Over the centuries, it fell under the rule of several powerful empires, including the Persians, Romans, and Byzantines. As the capital of the Lycian Union, the city played a crucial role in both politics and religion. Despite facing destruction multiple times due to wars and conquests, Xanthos was continuously rebuilt, demonstrating the resilience of its people.

Discovering Xanthos’ Legacy

Xanthos is more than just an archaeological site—it is a symbol of the cultural depth of the Lycian civilization. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underlines its universal significance. From its grand monuments to intricate rock tombs, the city offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called it home.

For history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike, a visit to Xanthos is an unforgettable experience. Walking through its ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of the past and witness the enduring spirit of an ancient civilization.

When to Visit

The best time to explore Xanthos is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Situated just a short drive from Fethiye, this ancient site offers visitors the chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich legacy of the Lycian civilization.

Source: Gerçek Fethiye

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