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With a whopping 1,000km of coastline and around 300 days of sunshine a year, this stretch of the Mediterranean deserves its nickname as the Turkish Riviera.
Think sparkling seas and pristine beaches, fresh-smelling pine forests and craggy mountains, and you almost picture it. But alongside the very best beaches and some great outdoor environments for hiking, biking and adrenaline-seeking, the Turkish Mediterranean is jam-packed with historical sites and some of the best golf courses the country has to offer.
miracles on the water
The Turkish Riviera is famous for beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, like the vast golden sands of Patara. But there are also lonely bays, natural pools and cool streams to discover. And the best way to discover them is from the sea, on a Blue Cruise.
Gulet cruise
Take the helm of a classic Turkish gulets for a holiday experience you will never forget. With sails and engines, these elegant ships are an age-old part of Turkey’s coastal scene. You can cruise for a week – or longer – and visit some of the most beautiful spots on the Riviera. Dock demreHome of the original Saint Nick, or the traditional fishing village of dalyanwith its waterfront restaurants and cliff tombs.
day trips
If days – and nights – on the water don’t keep your boat adrift, you can opt for a day trip from one of the many seaside resorts and ports along the Riviera. Take a cruise from Antalya’s port to explore some of the ancient sites that litter this coast including Olympos in Cirali u side, a favorite with Antony and Cleopatra. Or try an island-hopping picnic or a romantic sunset cruise.
underwater world
When the sparkling Mediterranean Sea calls your name, you can take it a step further than a dip in the cool blue. There is a whole world of ancient history, flora and fauna to discover underwater. To attempt snorkeling or choose a diving lesson to explore beneath the surface of the sunken city Kekova or the underwater remains of phaselis. The ancient ruins house all kinds of creatures.
Fun for the whole family
The Turkish Riviera is a wonderful place for a family holiday and there really is something for everyone – from babies to teenagers, from parents to grandparents.
family resorts
Families come in all shapes and sizes, as does accommodation on the Turkish Riviera. There are elegant beach hotels, all-inclusive resorts with large swimming pools, huge aqua parks, luxurious spas, boutique hotels and country retreats. Whether you’re looking for the best kids’ club or a once-in-a-lifetime activity to do as a family, this stretch of coast has something for you.
Let off steam in nature
With campsites nestled in pine forests, scenic hiking trails and bike routes, it’s easy to get off the beaten track and discover a different side of the Turkish Riviera. The Lycian Way (Likya Yolu) is the first long-distance hiking trail in Turkey. You might not make the full 500 km from Fethiye to Antalya, but it’s perfect for immersion. Enjoy the views of the azure sea, ancient cities and the towering Taurus Mountains.
Or discover the robust Taurus Mountains on horseback before heading to the beach for an exhilarating canter on the sand. Many stables are located near the beach and offer mountain walks with stunning views.
Are you looking for a thrill
This region is a paradise for adventurous families. Aside from the screeching slides and rides of countless water parks and theme parks, there is much more to get your heart pumping.
Try rafting on the icy waters of Koprulu Gorgeor canoe on the Xanthos River through Patara National Park. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, try paragliding from the hills above Kas with breathtaking views of the Cukurbag Peninsula. There are also two skydiving centers in this area, in Kas and Side.
And if your nerves are still intact, you can try rock climbing and caving. Turkey’s largest developed climbing area is in Geyikbayiri, but there are many other routes including Olympos and Karataslar. For caving, go to the beautiful stalactite cave of Damlatas, with temperatures hovering at a balmy 22°C year-round. or Karain Cavethe largest cave in the country that was once inhabited.
golf vacation
The Turkish Riviera has some of the finest golf courses in the Mediterranean, and they certainly offer spectacular views. Many have been designed by world famous golf course designers and some have their own five star accommodation.
Belek is the place to be when traveling with your clubs. With 15 courses on a small stretch of Mediterranean coastline, it’s a hitter on the European golf circuit. The average temperature here is around 19°C, so there is time on the green all year round.
One of the firm favorites is the Faldo King Course Cornelia Golf Clubdesigned by six-time Major winner Sir Nick Faldo, and the Lycia Links style course. This is the first and only links course in the Mediterranean and offers magnificent views of the aquamarine sea.
There is also the legendary Antalya Golf Club with its two PGA-recognized courses to try. and the original National Golf Clubwith a magnificent course through mature pine and eucalyptus trees, with the Taurus Mountains in the background.
take me there
If you can’t wait to explore the Turkish Riviera, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t need an entry visa, but you must fill out this form at least 72 hours before departure. Before booking, find out about our latest offers and check all entry requirements with our live COVID-19 travel map.