Knidos
Knidos was first founded in the Burgaz district on the Dalacak cape, 1.5 km northeast of today's center of Datça. Later it was moved to the Tekir Cape on the western tip of the peninsula. Knidos was a city advanced in science, architecture, and arts. Eudoxus, a great astronomer and mathematician of history, Euryphon, the famous painter Polygnotos, and Sostratos, the architect of the Alexandria Lighthouse, which was one of the seven wonders of the world, lived here. Euryphon and his students established the second-largest medical school of their time in Knidos. The sun clock, developed by Eudoxus and a significant invention of its era, can still be seen at the archaeological site. Historian Strabo compares the city to a theatre rising from the coast towards the Acropolis. The peninsula, which divides the inner and outer ports, has special buildings, and the slopes rising from the inner harbor to the Acropolis have buildings serving the community. Four main streets, 10 meters wide, run east-west and are placed flat on the terraces. Connections between streets are provided by stairs and inclined streets. The city is surrounded by walls that extend up to 4 km. It covers a vast area between the military port and the Acropolis, as well as the commercial port to the south. The peninsula, known as Deveboynu, used to be an island. Its head was connected to the mainland, and artificial ports were formed on both sides. A canal was opened for passage on the fill area. The northern port was used for military purposes, and there were round control towers on both sides, and its mouth was closed with a chain. The control tower in the south is still standing today. The southern inner harbor was larger and served as a port for commercial ships. Knidos has two theaters, one with a capacity of 20,000 and the other with a capacity of 5,000. The smaller one is located in the south, near the commercial port. The large theater on the Acropolis has not survived to this day because its stones and marbles were transported by ships in the 19th century. The most beautiful point of the archaeological site is the Aphrodite Temple, which dominates both harbors. The temple, which was circular in plan, had a diameter of 17 meters. The Aphrodite statue was in the middle of the temple, and the doors opened towards the statue. Today, only the pedestal of the statue can be seen. One of the interesting points of the archaeological site tour is the sun clock that shows the seasons and time. There is an Apollo Temple at the top, and the city rises towards it like a theater. The Corinth Temple, located just above the theater below, was the work of the architect Stratos. In the early Christian period, a church was built on the Doric temple located on the terrace in the middle of the road leading to the Apollo Temple. The colorful mosaic-covered floors of the churches built in the archaeological site can still be seen today. The Stoa, which was built by Sostratos, Knidos's famous architect, in the 3rd century BC, has been undergoing rescue excavations since 1996, and two-thirds of it have been completed to this day. The 113-meter-long and 16-meter-wide structure had small rooms measuring 5x3.80 m. All rooms faced south. The artifacts found from the rescue excavations carried out in the city are exhibited in the small museum at the archaeological site.
Çiftlik
Çiftlik is a popular bay, also known as Gerbekse among locals, and is one of the favorite harbors for yachts going on a blue voyage. Located in the Gerbekse Cove, which extends like a tongue into the sea and is sheltered from the wind, there are several piers and restaurants on the shore. On top of the hill, there is a castle, ancient ruins, and a church. Sometimes, boat captains witness a wedding ceremony for newlywed foreign tourists who are impressed by the beauty of the church. As you climb towards the hills, the steep and rugged cliffs of Gerbekse Cove, which become even more beautiful among pine and olive trees, are currently untouched.
The region's season lasts until November 15th, and it is protected from the prevailing winds. The coastline is small and pebbly, with a depth of 5-7 meters for yachts, and has good anchor holding capability. The interesting rock structure of Ince Ada (Thin Island) also inspires admiration, in addition to the beauty of Gerbekse Cove.
Bozukkale
is a beautiful cove located between Değirmenburnu and Kaleburun in the Bozburun Peninsula. It is a popular stop for yachts and boats during their blue voyage due to its sheltered position against the winds. Bozukkale is also known as "Bozuk Bükü" among sailors. The cove is surrounded by olive groves and Mediterranean vegetation, making it a hidden paradise.
Upon entering the cove by boat, visitors can see the defense walls and towers surrounding the hills. The ancient fortress of Loryma is located among the ruins in Bozukkale, and some historians suggest that it hosted the Athenian navy in 1412 BC. The cove was also an important gathering point for ships before the Knidos sea battle in 395 BC.
There are three restaurants that serve yachts in the clear waters of the cove. Behind the restaurants, on the top of the hill to the north of the cove, there is another castle ruin. The ancient city of Loryma (Bozukkale) was the center of the Rhodian peraias in the 10th century BC, but little information is available about its history. The rectangular fortress with walls and towers is still in good condition, with nine towers around it. It is believed that the castle was a defense unit against the opposite shore of Rhodes.
Next to Bozukkale are Korsan Koyu and Serçe Limanı. Serçe Limanı is famous for a shipwreck from the Fatimid dynasty in the 11th century AD that was carrying glass stones to be worked in Byzantine workshops. The historical value of this shipwreck, recovered through underwater excavations, is on display at the Bodrum Museum. In the past, there was a shipyard at Oplosika Bükü, the name given to Bozukkale in English nautical charts. Due to its geographical location and the narrowness of the harbor entrance, Athens ships also used this harbor during the Peloponnesian Wars
Symi
Symi, the most beautiful and well-maintained of the Greek islands, was once the richest of 12 islands in the 17th century due to its sponge trade and shipyards producing 500 ships annually. Now, it relies solely on tourism for its economy. As Halikarnas Fisherman put it, "Symi's saddle is similar to Datça's." If you ever find yourself on Symi, or as the Ottomans called it, Sömbeki, take a look at the saddle of the donkeys or mules - you'll notice the similarity. While in Turkey there are hardly any masters who produce saddles anymore, donkeys and mules remain an indispensable part of life in Symi's steep slopes.
Despite being one of the smallest Greek islands near the Turkish coast, Symi has been one of the most charming for centuries. Its income for many years came from the sponge industry, and the sponges produced on the island were distributed all over Europe through commercial representatives in Istanbul, Trieste, Marseille, Frankfurt, London, and Bari. After the introduction of diving suits and helmets to the island in 1866, sponge hunting became more widespread, and the island became the center of the sponge trade. In fact, in the early 20th century, Symi was like a European city. However, like in Bodrum and Datça, sponge diving "died" with technological advances. Now, only two or three shops selling traditional products remain, and tourists who come to the island are informed about the sponge trade in guided tours in English and German. They can buy sponges for prices ranging from 5 to 40 euros (much more expensive than in Bodrum). Tourists are also given a real show on how the sponge is extracted. Symi, with its barren land, used to produce 500 ships annually and was one of the wealthiest of 12 islands in the 17th century. Now, it relies solely on tourism.
The Moni Taxiarhi Mikhail church in Panormiti is a pilgrimage site for Greek sailors. In 1905, a copy of the bell tower of the Aya Fotini church in Izmir was erected here. The church contains an icon of Mikhail, the patron saint of sailors. Tourists, including those who come to smear their faces on the icon, participate in "sponge shows" in various parts of the island.
Tilos
Tilos is an island located 32 km away from Rhodes in the south of the Datça Peninsula. It has a surface area of 63 square kilometers and is connected to the islands of Eskino and Antitilo.
Livadia is a town on the island's northern coast, situated on a wide open beach with a small harbor at the western end. The police office of the port is located very close to the harbor. There are many guesthouses, taverns, and cafes along the beach. The beach is composed of large and colorful stones, and the sea is clear and inviting. There are several taps along the coast for taking showers. Sunbathing on Tilos' beach is quite enjoyable. The small settlement of Agios Antonios on the island is not deep enough for anchoring boats, but small fishing boats can dock here. In the south of Tilos, there is a beautiful beach that is protected from northern winds. Campers can stay on this beach. The winding steep ramps leading to the Karpathio region in the west of the island take you to a historical church. This church was built on a natural spring that emerges from the rugged mountains. Some of the scarce water on the island is supplied by distributing the water from this spring through pipes. It is quite enjoyable to watch Japanese fish living in a small pool used for storing water. You can sit and relax in the church's garden while enjoying a drink.
Khalki
Khalki The stone houses on this very small island are completely untouched. Halki has typical Greek island features and there are no motorized vehicles on the island. The beaches can be reached by boats. Halki island is ideal for relaxation and the stone houses used as guesthouses and seaside tavernas on the island provide a peaceful atmosphere. The sun rises directly in front of the houses, so waking up early to watch the sunrise in the midst of infinite silence is quite enjoyable. Besides swimming in the sea, you can also take a walk to the Moni Agiou Ioanni monastery on the back side of the island. The monastery, which can be reached by walking along a delightful trail for about two hours, is no longer inhabited by monks. However, the family responsible for maintaining the monastery is very welcoming to visitors. The view of the other islands in the region and of Turkey from the monastery is simply breathtaking.
Rhodes
The history of Rhodes Island, which modernized in the 1920s, dates back to the 5th century BC. The island, which was under the domination of the Byzantine and Roman empires for a while, became a city where the Knights of St. John lived in the 15th century.
The Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the world, with its strategic location and cultural heritage, is the most popular destination for tourists visiting the island. Rhodes, the largest of the 12 islands belonging to Greece, is protected as a "cultural heritage" by UNESCO. Taking photos of the beauty of the historical coasts that carry the traces of the St. John Knights will become a passion for you.
There are many legends about the island, but the most believed one is that Rhodes was brought up from the depths of the sea by the gods. It is believed that the Helen Goddess, who represents the sun in Greek mythology, is the protector of the island. You can find everything you are looking for in a holiday in Rhodes. There are many places to visit on a Rhodes trip. The houses in the narrow streets, as well as the Temple of Apollo, the Mandraki Harbor, and the Ancient Theater, are places that must be seen... The streets, churches, palaces, and mosques bearing the Turkish name that carry the traces of the St. John Knights are noteworthy structures.
When you look at Rhodes from a distance, you will see that the city is divided into two. The part called the Old City is the most attention-grabbing part for visitors. The Old City is a city built within a castle consisting of six gates belonging to the Middle Ages. The events that took place centuries ago, the narrow streets where knights rode, the mystical atmosphere of the castle, and the structures inside it are of interest.
The island's beaches have been shaped like sculptures by the volcano for years. Mandraki Village with its two-story houses and narrow streets is the first place visitors see. Nikia Village is like a natural balcony where you can watch the sea and the surrounding islands... Palon, a fishing village, is famous for its seafood restaurants.
Hayıtbükü
Hayıtbükü is one of the three beautiful bays of Mesudiye Village where green and blue embrace each other passionately. It is located 19 km away from Datça center, in a small circular cove on the Mediterranean side of the peninsula. It has a very unique atmosphere, surrounded by mountains and sheltered from winds. Even in the hottest times, it has a climate that resembles the coolness of air conditioning. There are restaurants, tea gardens and accommodation facilities in the bay, which use the products grown in the Mesudiye plain. Throughout the year, activities such as nature walks, fishing, and yoga are organized. Kızılbük is 300 m away on the east side of Hayıtbükü, and Ovabükü is 1 km away on the west side. You can climb to the hills or take a walk towards the area behind the pier, where the long beach is located, in the morning in Hayıtbükü. After your morning walk among gardens, greenhouses, and olive trees, you can dive into the clear waters. You can have your breakfast under the mulberry trees in tea gardens
Datça
Datça, a town located on the Datça Peninsula, which is one of the 13 districts of Muğla province in the Aegean Region of Turkey. The town is surrounded by the natural beauty of green and blue hues, including pine trees, almonds, eucalyptus, carob, olive, oak, myrtle trees, mulberries, figs, vineyards, citrus fruits, medicinal herbs, spices, and more. The town has 9 villages including Cumalı, Emecik, Hızırşah, Karaköy, Kızlan, Mesudiye, Sındı, Yakaköy, and Yazıköy. Mesudiye is the most well-known village due to its location by the sea, and Palamutbükü Cove and beach are among the most popular tourist spots. Datça has become popular among foreign tourists, especially Germans, British, and Russians, who have purchased land and summer houses in the area. With 253 km of coastline and 52 coves, Datça is located at the intersection of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas. One of the most important coastal areas of Datça is Gebekum Dune, which has been formed over thousands of years by sea movements and microorganisms that consume sand particles, creating new sand in the process. The dune is home to 85 plant species and 19 bird species, and it is currently under protection.
Palamutbükü
Palamutbükü is a village named after the Palamut tree, but nowadays, the most popular and delicious trees in the area are the almond and olive trees. It is a beautiful cove that boat tour participants and yacht owners cannot pass without stopping at the fish restaurants. Palamutbükü is a natural wonder with its shining beaches, bays, olive, almond, and pine trees that offer various shades of green. In ancient times, it was an important place for Knidos due to its port and fertile lands.
The most beautiful spot of the ancient site is the Aphrodite Temple, which dominates both harbors. The circular temple had a diameter of 17 meters, and the Aphrodite statue was in the middle of the temple. The doors opened to the statue. Now, only the pedestal of the statue can be seen.
Another interesting point of the ancient site tour is the sundial that shows the seasons and time. At the top, there is the Apollo Temple, and the city rises towards it like a theater. The Corinth Temple above the theater was the work of the architect Stratos.
A church was built on the Doric temple, which was in the middle of the road leading to the Apollo Temple, in the early Christian period. The colorful mosaic-covered floors of the churches built in the ancient site can still be seen today. The Stoa, which is 113 meters long and 16 meters wide and has small rooms of 5x3.80 meters, was built by the famous Knidos architect Sostratos in the 3rd century BC. All the rooms opened to the south. The findings from the rescue excavations in the city are exhibited in the small museum in the ancient site.
Gemiler Island
Gemiler Island, also known as Aya Nikola Island, located within the Ölüdeniz Basin, formerly known as Sybola in the Middle Ages, became an important location with the emergence of settlements, particularly of religious nature, dating back to the 5th century AD. It became a stopping point for European and Eastern Mediterranean trade and travel ships, and eventually became a pilgrimage center. In addition to numerous churches and chapels, schools that provided religious education were also opened. Since 1990, an expedition by a Japanese team has identified 11 churches on the island and its surroundings. Four of them are located on Gemiler Island, one on Karacaören Island, and the others are in the Ölüdeniz and Karaören Bay area. The area surrounding Gemiler Island is considered an important center for the Christian world. In addition to the religious structures on the island, there are also houses where people lived and worked. Due to the rocky terrain of the island, the foundations of the churches and houses were carved into the rock. Remains also exist on the seabed. Among these remains, the most important ones are the churches from the early Christian and Byzantine periods, and the cistern remains on the seaside. Especially the tunnel that stretches between two churches, although some parts are destroyed, is one of the most interesting historical artifacts on the island. It is said that the 17 stops placed in the stairwells of the tunnel were inspired by Jesus Christ's 17 rest periods during his journey to be crucified.
During the earthquakes that occurred between AD 240-241, a 2-meter part of the island was submerged, which is evidenced by the remains now submerged underwater. Gemiler Island, with its crystal-clear sea and nature, is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign yachtsmen. The area also includes other beauty spots that are worth seeing, such as Beştaşlar, named after the boiling fresh water spring, Kısık Cove, the large sea cave formed by the sea, Afkule located to the west of Kısık Cove, and many other coves in the Fethiye region.
Ekincik
You must see this magical place where mountains, sea and forests come together, creating an incredible beautiful scent. Once you see it, you will fall in love with it. Its stunning view will enchant hikers and divers, who will be fascinated by the richness of the underwater world. This is a village with only 70 households. There are only two hotels, restaurants and a market in front of the sea. It is located 35 km away from Köyceğiz. It is like living the Robinson Crusoe life. It is an ideal place to live in both summer and winter for those who love silence, nature and solitude. Be careful when you are on vacation here, because a celebrity might suddenly appear before you. Hollywood stars Dustin Hoffman and famous singer Sting have been guests here. Until today, famous figures such as Princess Caroline and Princess Margaret come here at every opportunity to enjoy the nature.
Göcek
Göcek is a settlement located within the Fethiye Gulf and concentrated along the coastline known as Göcek Bay. Surrounded by steep Taurus Mountains on all sides except for the south, which faces the sea, Göcek has a limited area squeezed between these mountains.
Due to the geographical structure of the bay it is located in, Göcek serves as a calm and sheltered harbor. It contains numerous beautiful coves, small and large islands, and turquoise waters, offering all the sought-after features for holidaymakers and sea enthusiasts. These features have made Göcek Bay an excellent stopover and shelter point for boats of those who love open seas and blue voyages.
Göcek was a Lycian settlement located between Telmesos (Fethiye) and Kaunos (Dalyan), two developed cities of the Lycian civilization in the past. Unfortunately, only a few structures have survived from ancient Kalimçe to the present day due to various reasons. The main settlement area has not been clearly identified, so no excavation has been carried out. The insufficient information provided by ancient writers, who are the main source, about the existence and story of the settlement also keeps its past a secret. However, rock tombs, monumental tombs, and baths can be seen in the bays and on the Fethiye road. In addition, there are ancient and recent remains on Tersane Island. Considering the region's geographical structure, it is possible that the Daidalus and Icarus myths in mythology took place in Göcek as well.
On the Kapıdağ Peninsula, accessible from Göcek by boat tours, there are the ancient cities of Krya, Lisai, and İydai. Excavations have not been carried out in these ancient settlements due to transportation difficulties. However, some remains can be seen from these settlements that have reached the present day.
Kas
Kas is a small resort town on the coast, located just 3 miles from the Greek island of Meis. It is surrounded by a green landscape of bushes and shrubs. The temperature never drops below zero, and the average humidity is 54% per year. Kaş is surrounded by many known ancient cities, including Istlada, Apollonia, Isinda, and Kyaenai, as well as many unknown ruins. These are both large and small ancient settlements. For example, a small settlement called Tysse can be found on a low hill near the village of Tüse.
The oldest name of the ancient city, Habesos, has been proven by archaeological finds. The ancient city was also known as Antiphellos in history. Antiphellos, which is located at the intersection of roads that connect the regions of Karia and Lycia, is also a commercial port.
During Alexander the Great's Anatolian campaign, the region fell under the rule of the Macedonian king. After Alexander's death at a young age, the region changed hands between the Seleucids and Ptolemies. The ancient city gained importance in the Roman era and became a bishopric center in the Byzantine era. During this period, it was attacked by Arab invasions and later joined the Anatolian Seljuk territories, taking the name Andifli. After the collapse of the Anatolian Seljuk State, the Tekeoğulları Principality took over the administration, and the Ottoman Empire incorporated the district into its territories during the reign of Yıldırım Beyazıt.
In ancient times, the Lycians who settled on the peninsula known today as the "Teke Peninsula" between the Antalya and Fethiye bays were called "Lukkalılar" in Hittite texts, and it is known that they had a strong national consciousness as early as the 2nd millennium BC. The concept of "Unity" in this Anatolian people, who were related to the Luwians, emerged with the establishment of the Assuwa Confederation by Anatolian peoples against the Hittites in the late 15th century BC. Their siding with the Hittites against the Egyptians in Kadesh and rushing to help the Trojans against the Achaean Greeks in Homer's Iliad are concrete examples of this consciousness extending to "Anatolian integrity". Around 540 BC, they realized that they could not resist the Persians and gathered their unarmed people at the Xanthos Fortress and burned them alive, while their soldiers fought to the last person, writing a unique heroic epic for freedom. This turned into a national solidarity consciousness that led them to unity, and continued in the form of some cities coming together among themselves, with their inability to accept the Persian and Athenian rule in the 5th century BC. This is why the Athenian Isocrates said in the early 4th century BC, "No one has ever been able to be a king to the Lycians."
Kekova
Kekova is a rocky island located west of Demre (Kale) on the coast of the Lycian region. This place was first announced by Cramer in the early 19th century. It is often referred to as Kakava in sources. Kekova Island has given its name to the surrounding region. However, this island has been submerged underwater due to earthquakes, and it has also been given the name Sunken City. There are ancient cities such as Aperlai, Batık Kent, Simena in Kaleköy, Theimussa in Üçağız, and Istlada in Gökkaya bay nearby. The highest peak is 188 m, and the depth of the sea, which looks like a canal between the island and the opposite mainland, is 105 m. The island has never had the characteristics of a city, like the two small ports opposite it, and has been used more as a shelter, shipbuilding, and repair base for sailors. The ruins on the northwest coast of the island, which is now called the "Sunken City," have been used as a commercial and military base since at least the 5th century BC, making it the most colorful corner of Kekova. Tersane bay is the only place where you can swim and the area where the archaeological remains, especially the Basilica apse from the Byzantine period, are most concentrated. In the corner, which is known as the sunken city, settlement remains carved into the mainland and foundation remains in the water are usually found, and it should be noted that wooden architecture was also intensively used to revive their original condition. The fact that only these structures have sunk can most likely be explained by the island tilting towards the mainland from this corner after the earthquake.
YASSICA ISLANDS
YASSICA ISLANDS These are such small islands that they don't even have individual names. They are all referred to as Yassica Islands together. There are no facilities on the islands. The larger one has a small pool-like formation at the end of its sandy, extending beach, which seems to have been specially made for tiny babies. Here, you can also try swimming adventures between the islands without fear. The closest distance between the islands is 12 meters. If you can swim for about half an hour, you can tour all four islands. If you wish, you can also walk on the islands, but don't forget to bring sports shoes with you.
TERSANE ISLAND
TERSANE ISLAND It is the largest of the islands in the bay. The remains of an abandoned Greek settlement can be found on the island after the exchange of populations. During your visit to the island, you will come across the remains of a shipyard and a watchtower, which the island is named after. The two bays that sailors named their summer and winter harbors are also a popular stop for blue cruise and day trip boats. The winter bay, which you come across after entering through a narrow strait, is one of the places where many sailors take refuge in sudden winds.
HAMAM KOYU
HAMAM KOYU (Cleopatra) This cove is a must-see stop for blue cruise and daily boat tours. Blue cruise boats and yachts love to stay overnight here, while daily boats usually take a break for lunch in this cove. Right next to the pier, you will see the remains of a Byzantine monastery, some parts of which are now underwater. You can also take a pleasant walk along the coast and through the forest. There are several umbrella-covered restaurants serving yachts on the shore. If you're confident in your abilities, you can take a half-hour hike up to the ancient city of Lydae from Cleopatra Hamam Cove or Yavansu.
Bedri Rahmi (Tasyaka) Bay
Bedri Rahmi (Tasyaka) Bay is a cove located northwest of Tersane Island, named after the famous Turkish painter Bedri Rahmi Eyüboğlu. In the 1970s, Bedri Rahmi and his friends visited the cove and he was so impressed with it that he painted a fish on a rock, which became a famous landmark of the cove. The cove has casual restaurants and wooden piers for boats to dock. It also features a beautiful fountain, a pebble beach adorned with oleander trees, Bedri Rahmi's famous fish painting on the rock, and a kite mosaic made of pebbles by the artist Azra Erhat. The cove also has ancient rock tombs carved into the cliffs on the north side and a cool water source on a flat area where the restaurant is located. The water source is enclosed by concrete and forms a small pool that is refreshing on hot days. Visitors who follow the path up the hill for about half an hour will reach the small village of Kilisebelen with three to five houses. The view from there includes the Dalaman plain, the airport, Kocagöl and Baba Islands, and is stunning.
Küçük Sarsala Cove
Küçük Sarsala Cove is one of the preferred coves for swimming and overnight stays on boats with its sheltered structure and natural beach. Its long pebble beach, the wooded valley that extends inward, and the surrounding mountains covered with pine trees make Sarsala attractive. In the cove of Küçük Sarsala, where boats mostly dock, there is a restaurant and a pier. If you walk from this cove towards Taşyaka Cove, you can visit the Lycian rock tombs.
GOBUN COVES
GOBUN COVES They offer breathtaking underwater views that are typically found in tropical regions. Restaurants located in both coves provide boat passengers with the opportunity to experience unique moments in this beautiful atmosphere. The quiet and peaceful nature of Kapı and Merdivenli coves will allow solo boat travelers to get lost among the lush pine trees. You can easily land on the coast from the beach strip, take short walks and explore the surroundings.
