MUGLA

The province of Mugla includes the famous resort cities of Bodrum, Marmaris, Datca, Koycegiz and Fethiye. Beautiful resorts, comfortable hotels and motels, cozy guest houses, impressive ruins of past civilizations and magnificent landscapes offer vacationers plenty to choose from. Mugla, the province's capital, lies inland and is known for its traditional local architecture. In the village of Ozluce,a veritable open-air museum east of Mugla, is Turolian Park, where you can find very ancient fossils.

Bodrum Castle - Mugla

Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus, was the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of the Tomb of King Mausolus (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world.

An impressive medieval castle built by the Knights of Rhodes guards the entrance to Bodrum's dazzling blue bay, where the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas meet. This Bodrum Castle, or Castle of St. Peter overlooking the harbor is a fine example of 15th-century crusader architecture. It has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archeology, displaying artifacts dating as far back as the Bronze Age. Vases from the 8th and 9th centuries B.C. are also part of the collection. The stunning panoramic view from nearby Goktepe is often photographed by visitors to the Museum's 2nd century theater. There is also a hamam (Turkish bath) museum in Bodrum dating from the early 1900's.

Yacht Races, Bodrum - Mugla

The town's charm is well-known, attracting a wide variety of international vacationers who stroll along its long, palm-lined waterfront, while elegant yachts crowd the marina.

Not far from town, you can swim in absolutely clear, tideless, warm seas. Divers will want to explore the numerous reefs, caves and majestic rock formations. The waters offer up multicolored sponges of all shapes and sizes, along with octopi and an immense variety of other aquatic life.

Although the reputation of Bodrum's boat yards dates back to ancient times, today craftsmen still build the traditional yachts: the tirhandil with a pointed bow and stern, and the broad beamed, rounded stern gulette. The latter are frequently used for excursions and pleasure trips, as well as in the annual October Bodrum Cup Race.

Akyaka, Bodrum - Mugla

The yearly throng of visitors has encouraged small entrepreneurs to make shopping in Bodrum a delight. Leather goods of all kinds, natural sponges and the local blue glass beads are among the bargains to be found in the friendly little shops along the narrow, white- walled streets. Charming boutiques offer kilims, carpets, sandals and embroidery as well as original fashions in soft cotton.

Bodrum has gained the reputation of being a center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. This community has encouraged an informal daytime lifestyle and an exciting nightlife. Early evenings in Bodrum are for savoring fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties of the many restaurants.

Afterwards, night clubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn. The beautiful Bodrum Peninsula suits holiday makers interested in a subdued and relaxing atmosphere. Enchanting villages, with guest houses and small hotels on quiet bays, dot the peninsula. On the southern coast, Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, Aktur, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar have fine, sandy beaches (Bitez, Ortakent and Aktur are blue-flag beaches). Campers and windsurfers enjoy Gumbet, and at Bitez colorful sailboards weave skillfully among the yachts in the bay. On shore you can enjoy quiet walks through the orange and tangerine groves bordering the beach. Ortakent has one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the area and offers an ideal place for relaxing in solitude. One of the most beautiful beaches on the Bodrum peninsula is Karaincir, ideal for active days by the sea and relaxed, leisurely evenings with local villagers. Finally, Akyarlar enjoys a well-deserved reputation for the fine, powdery sands of its beach.

Sponges in Bodrum - Mugla

Turgutreis, Gumusluk and Yalikavak, all with excellent beaches, lie on the western side of the peninsula and are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. Gumusluk Beach is blue-flag rated. Turgutreis was named for the, great Turkish admiral who was born there. In the ancient port of Myndos (Gumusluk) you can easily make many friends with the hospitable and outgoing local population. In Yalikavak, white washed houses with cascading bougainvillaea line narrow streets. Small cafes and the occasional windmill create a picturesque setting. Though you can see the north coast of the peninsula and Torba, Turkbuku, Golkoy and Gundogan by road, it is even better to hire a boat and crew to explore the quiet coves, citrus groves and wooded islands. Little windmills, still providing the energy to grind grain crown, hills covered with olive trees. Torba, a modem village with holiday villas and a nice marina is located eight km north of Bodrum. Golkoy and Turkbuku are small, simple fishing villages with a handful of taverns overlooking a lovely bay.

Yachting in Bodrum - Mugla

Half an hour from Bodrum by boat, you can bathe in the grotto at Karaada where the warm mineral waters flowing out of the rocks are believed to enhance the complexion.

The deep, translucent waters of the Gulf of Gokova, off the southern shore of the Bodrum peninsula vary in color from the darkest blue to the palest turquoise, while the coastline is covered in every hue of green. In the evening, the sea reflects the mountains silhouetted against the setting sun, while it shimmers with phosphorescence at night. You can take a yacht tour or hire a boat from Bodrum for tour of the gulf lasting from two days to a week.

The Gulf of Gulluk, and harbor of the same name, lie north of the Bodrum peninsula on the Aegean. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kiyikislacik (lassos). South of Gulluk, Varvil, ancient Bargilya, sits at the end of a deep narrow inlet surrounded by olive-covered hillsides.

Netsel Marina, Marmaris - Mugla

Inland from Gulluk is Milas (Mylasa) known for its beautiful carpets, a century-old tradition. The weavers rarely mind a visitor watching them at work. Plenty of old Turkish houses with carved timbers and latticed windows provide examples of the architectural style. At Gumuskesen, west of the city is a memorial tomb, thought to be a small replica of the famous Halicarnassus Mausoleum.

The ancients built Labranda, a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, high in the mountains. Today tourists have rediscovered this mountain retreat, escaping to its exhilarating air and breathtaking scenery.

Milas Carpets, Mugla

Situated on a bay, backed by rugged pine-clad mountains, Marmaris is one of the most attractive maritime parklands, ideal for water sports and sailing. It makes an excellent starting point for the "Blue Voyage" tour of the Aegean coastline. In May, the Marmaris Yacht Charter Show provides an opportunity to meet the yacht captains and crews. With plenty of provisions aboard you set sail in the craft of your choice and languidly explore the spectacular beauty of Southern Turkey. While in Marmaris, sample the typical Turkish cuisine in one of the marina restaurants and drink the national alcoholic beverage, raki, made from anisette, the traditional Turkish way, over ice and diluted with water. Later stroll along the brightly lit and palm - lined promenade and indulge yourself at one of the ice cream vendors enjoy energetic entertainment at a lively bar or dancing until dawn at a sophisticated disco to end a perfect day.

There are many good buys in Marmaris boutiques, colorful bazaars and markets. You can find excellent leather and suede goods, copper and brassware, jewelry and objects carved of onyx. Turkish carpets, textiles and embroidery make good handcrafted souvenirs, and the locally produced pine-scented honey called Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt cam bali is superb.

Marmaris Castle, Mugla

Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Suleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built there, the remains of which can still be seen today.

Swimmers should not miss Ataturk Park, to the east of Marmaris, where a shallow beach, extending to the bay leads to safe waters. The clear sea is warm enough for swimming from early May until late September. Marmaris also has horseback riding and tennis centers for the sports enthusiast. This is one of the few places in the world where you can delight in the heady aroma of the frankincense tree. Weekly ferries run between Marmaris and Venice during the summer season.

Near Marmaris, at Icmeler, the hazy mountains of the interior slope down to sandy beaches. Under blue skies, the clear sea is ideal for all types of water sports. Many find this area so irresistible that they stay longer than originally planned. And there are some excellent accommodations here, in which you can prolong your contact with nature. As you drive down from the high mountains into the village of Turunc, the scene opens out onto the spectacular blue waters beyond the natural harbor. The village itself is small and scattered around the bay, with most of the restaurants border the beach. A few bars and restaurants farther back from the water's edge offer fresh fish and superb views.

Vacation Village, Marmaris - Mugla

Kumlubuk, a turquoise paradise, lies on the southern side of the bay. On the northern side, above the water, stands the ancient Rhodian city of Amos. At the tip of the Bozburun Peninsula is Loryma, where the ruins of the ancient harbor and castle can only be reached by boat. Natural quiet bays and scattered islands punctuate the northern shore of the peninsula, ideal for those who want to get away from it all.

Sedir Island, in the Gulf of Gokova, is the ancient Cedrai. Its old city walls, theater and temples can be visited by driving from Marmaris north to Gelibolu Bay and then crossing by boat. This voyage also offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the mountain scenery across the bay. At the head of the gulf is the village of Gokova, whose houses seem to cascade down the mountainside of Mt. Kiran. Restaurants built over bubbling, freshwater streams that fall from the highlands create an unforgettable setting. The towering pines and cooling breezes of Gokova Park are a welcome respite from the hot sun.

Blue Cave, Marmaris - Mugla

The Datca Peninsula provides a natural boundary between the Aegean Sea and the Gulf of Gokova to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea and the Gulf of Hisaronu to the south. Along the 75 km from Marmaris to Datca, the road winds among trees and hills, permitting lovely views over the expanse of blue. Campers have many perfect settings to choose from, while the less adventurous can stay in one of the many comfortable holiday villages. The beautiful blue-flag Aktur beach is 25 km from Datca. In Datca white-washed buildings hung with bougainvillaea decorate the town. The marina is on the southern bay, while swimmers prefer the northern bay. Around the marina bars, cafes and a wide selection of shops keep the tourist from getting bored. Some shops remain open well into the evening. Relaxing over a pre-dinner drink and then a delicious meal in an inviting restaurant is a popular way to spend the evening hours. Of course, the local eateries offer both fresh fish and classical Turkish cuisine. With any remaining energy, take a stroll and find a disco to your liking to while away the time until the early morning hours. Ten km north of Paca, Kormen Harbor is connected to Bodrum by a daily ferry.

Icmeler, Marmaris - Mugla

As you travel out of Datca, either by road or by boat, you will find unspoiled bays and golden sandy beaches. Kargi is one of the most popular. At the end of the peninsula, 38 km from Datca, stands the ancient Carian city of Knidos, described by Strabo as "a city that was built for the most beautiful of goddesses, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful of peninsulas." (Earlier in history Datca, itself was also called Knidos). The city which was famous as a center of art and culture in the 4th century B.C. had two harbors, one on the Aegean and the other on the Mediterranean. The remains of a circular temple dedicated to the goddess of love overlook the two harbors; the arcaded way was built of white marble, heart - shaped columns. The legendary Aphrodite statue by Praxiteles was one of the most beautiful sculptures of antiquity and once graced this temple.

Kaunos Rock Tombs, Dalyan - Mugla

The town of Koycegiz lies at the northern end of the lake of the same name and is joined to the Mediterranean by a natural channel. This unique environment is a nature and wildlife sanctuary. A road shaded with aromatic frankincense trees leads to the tiny village of Dalyan on the inland waterway. The maze of channels is easily explored by boat as you traverse this tranquil dream world. The restaurants which line the waterways specialize in delicious fresh fish. High on the cliff face, above the fascinating ancient harbor city of Caunos, are magnificent tombs that were carved into the rock. The Dalyan Delta, with the long, golden lztuzu sandy beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and blue crabs.

Mud Bath, Dalyan - Mugla

At Ekincik, a delightful yacht mooring, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this area. Only a half hour's drive from Dalaman Airport, Sarigerme has wonderful sandy beaches, and a pleasant holiday village discreetly situated in a pine forest. The Dalaman River offers good rafting, the best time for which being from May to October.

Dalyan Channels, Mugla

The road to Fethiye winds up and down hills through a heavily forested region that offers occasional glimpses of the sea and an islet or two basking in total seclusion. The Gulf of Gocek and its friendly marina is one of the Mediterranean's best sailing spots. Dotted with islands and indented with many coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The ruins of Arymaxa, an ancient city at the southern tip of the gulf, lie at the edge of the azure waters. Opposite, on Tersane Island, stand Byzantine ruins, including those of the ancient shipyards.

Harpy Monument and Xanthros Theatre, Antalya

At the popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of Marmaris, is a major marina at the head of a beautiful bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the ruins of a crusader fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the ancient town of Telmessos, numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. The Tomb of Amyntas, which probably dates from the fourth century BC is the most remarkable.

Swimmers head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometers west of town, or to Sovalye Island, opposite the harbor, which blazes with flowers in the spring.

The road to Belcegiz Bay takes you through mountains where cozy guest houses cater to those seeking mountain scenery. Ocakkoy is the mountain village that is a must see. Stay in one of the lovely guest houses and enjoy the numerous hiking possibilities. Hisaronu, also in the mountains, has very nice hotels.

Beach

Four km from Hisaronu, Kayakoy is a picturesque ghost town of old houses and churches. Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon (Olu Deniz) where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the world to do absolutely nothing except soak up the sun amid stunting natural surroundings. At Mt. Baba (1,969 m), you can paraglide into the lagoon. For those seeking accommodations or other facilities, Belcegiz beach is recommended. Intoxicating scenery surrounds the beach and shady park at Kidirak. On Gemiler Island (St. Nicholas' Island), Byzantine ruins he tucked among the pines.

South of Kidirak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat. Beyond the idyllic beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley filled with hundreds of varieties of butterflies await. High in the mountains above Fethiye a rushing torrent cuts a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating Saklikent (Hidden City) located 44 km south of Fethiye. A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. Yakakoy (Tlos), 36 km southeast of Fethiye, is the oldest city in the Lycian region and home of the Lycian hero Bellerophon. Visitors can see the remains of a castle, agora, necropolis, theater, Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley. Two km east of the villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picnicking. Pinara, 49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city ideal for hiking where visitors can see the remains of a theater, agora, rock tomb, and baths.

Oludeniz, Fethiye - Mugla

About 65 km from Fethiye, to the southeast, near Kink are the ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a splendid natural setting. Letoon, nearby, was formerly an important religious center where three temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis and Apollo stood in ancient times.