Turkey’s Uncharted Allure: A Brief Journey into the Lesser-Known

While we enjoy a golden age of transport, able to explore the farthest reaches of the globe, Turkey remains a popular destination for sun-seekers. Not only is Turkey affordable, but it’s also reliably sunny and boasts a stunning Mediterranean coastline, but its attractions extend far beyond its beautiful beaches and into uncharted territory. We made our base at the luxurious five-star NG Phaselis Bay resort, which served as our launchpad for a two-day adventure.

Turkey’s incredible beauty comes from its picturesque coastline and dramatic mountain ranges, which cover over 80% of the country. While many tourists flock to the seaside, venturing inland offers hidden rewards. As you travel away from Antalya’s beaches into a drier, rugged environment, you’re reminded that you’re far from the urban sprawl back home; the landscape’s dusty pastel colours extend all the way to the mountain peaks, except for one vibrant green oasis, fed by a 36-mile underground river.

Wandering through this leafy park, you’ll encounter a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape. A torrent of water courses through rapids, the cool spray offering respite from the sun’s heat. Over millions of years, the water has carved a shaded gorge, hosting diverse flora and fauna. Follow the path to the Duden Waterfalls, a spectacular finale to this secluded paradise.

A short bus ride towards Antalya’s coast brings you to Kaleici’s historic harbour. Vendors selling fresh fish and ripe fruit line the path to a breathtaking vantage point. Explore the ‘Old Town’ to discover traditional Turkish architecture alongside remnants of Roman occupation. Hadrian’s Gate — named after the same Hadrian who built the eponymous wall in the UK — features three grand stone archways dating back to 130 AD. This magnificent structure still bears the marks of ancient carts that once traversed its stone roadway.

After a delightful dinner and peaceful sleep at NG Phaselis Bay, we embarked on a boat trip to explore the mesmerising blue waters along the coast to Kekova, and island just off the Turkey mainland. The sight of wild dolphins leaping playfully was breathtaking. The cool breeze and calm waters provided a relaxing atmosphere to appreciate nature’s elegance while snorkelling and diving from the boat before lunch fostered camaraderie among our fellow travellers.

Taking another bus brought us to Demre, in the ancient city of Myra. St. Nicholas Church, named after the charitable figure believed to be the original Father Christmas, is impressively preserved with its original wall paintings transporting visitors back in time.

Another ancient stop on our journey was the famous tombs of Lymra, carved into a vast cliff face. These intricate limestone structures are perched high, as people believed sirens would fly down and carry the dead to the afterlife. Neighbouring these tombs and towers are architectural remnants of Rome’s global influence. The grand amphitheatre once hosted entertainment events, showcasing the prowess of its builders. From plays to sacrifices, this space still exudes an atmosphere of centuries past.

Our whirlwind tour demonstrated that Turkey offers far more than just popular tourist spots. For those willing to venture beyond the beaches, a wealth of natural beauty and culture awaits.