Turkish Turquoise Coast
Where is the Turquoise coast, the Turkish Riviera
The Turquoise Coast is not an actual region but rather a name given to the south and southwest coasts of Turkey. The coast is located partially in the Mediterranean and partially in the Aegean. This coast is also known as the Turkish Riviera. This stretch of Turkey’s coastline is a popular national and international tourist destination because of its long coastline along the Aegean and Mediterranean Sea, the warm climate and namesake turquoise waters.History of the Turquoise Coast:
This coastline is a cultural epicentre full of factual and mythological events and individuals. This area has been mentioned in the folklore of many cultures throughout history. It is regarded as the home of scholars, saints, warriors, kings, and heroes and several well-known myths and mythical figures. It is said that the famed Mark Antony of the Roman Empire gave his beautiful bride Cleopatra of Egypt the Turkish Riviera as a wedding gift. St. Nicholas who is now known as Santa Claus was born is Demre, ancient Myra, which is a small town close to Antalya. The father of Herodotus was born in Bodrum, ancient Halicarnassus, in 484BC. The inspiration for the mythical creature called the Chimera, the fire breathing monster that Bellerophon slew, is believed to have been inspired by the volcanic mountains to the west of Antalya, near Dalyan.
Main cities and areas:
There are many cities, towns and villages in the area but the most internationally known are Alanya, Antalya, Bodrum, Cesme, Fethiye, Kalkan, Kas, Kemer, Kusadasi, Marmaris and Side. Alanya holds many panoramic views of the water. It has been inhabited since the Hittites and was the medieval homeport of the Seljuk naval forces. Today it is popular for its natural beauty and historical monuments. Paradise Bay in Bodrum is just that- a bay of paradise. If you have ever wondered what heaven or paradise looks like then this place will answer that question. This location was also known as ancient Halicarnassus the city of Herodotus and was home to the Mausoleum of Maussollos which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. To this day this area has lost little of its ancient luster and beauty. The Turquoise Coast does not hold only one of the seven wonders of the ancient world but boasts two. The other wonder is the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. You can see why so many powerful famous factual or mythological beings were drawn to this region.
Sites and Attractions to see in the Turquoise Coast today:
The Turquoise Coast is more than just 150km of seemingly endless beaches. This area houses some of the most luxurious resorts in Turkey and the world. The ancient town of Pamfilia has one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world. Pamfilia is also home to Antalya Castle where is you can swim at the temple of Apollo. Trips to and through the Taurus Mountains are very popular. East of Antalya has groves of oranges, lemons and crops of vegetables. The excellent temperature helps this area to also grow prosperous crops of tomatoes, eggplant and lettuce throughout the year. When the white tufts finally appear from the opening fruit buds of cotton it makes the area looks like it is covered with snow even though it is the middle of summer and the beautiful sun is cascading over the land. There are pubs throughout the region that are especially reserved for gentlemen called Kyraathane where men can gather and drink tea, play traditional games and smoke off a hookah pipe. Travellers who enjoy cultural attractions will get lost in the Archaeological Museum which has artefacts from the Paleolithic Age through to the Ottoman era.
If you enjoy nature and getting out in it then you will enjoy the mountain terrain in Antalya. You will be able to see a different side to the normal Turkish landscape here. Make the most of the beautiful scenery by stopping and having a picnic or taking some pictures then travel on and visit the majestic Duden or Kursunlu Waterfalls.
Turkey’s premier golf resort is located in Belek. The golf resort here has stunning views of the stretched, golden sand beaches and of the lush mountains in the backdrop. You can find a number of five star accommodations with all establishments including sporting activities, spa treatments, and entertainment. Most of these hotels also cater towards children’s wants as well offering kids clubs and other activities.
Landscape and Nature
Antalya is the largest city on the Mediterranean and has a charming harbour. It is a thriving modern city with a central historic heart in Kaleici. Many of the Ottoman era wooden mansions are being renovated and turned into boutique hotels. Antalya is set high in the cliffs and has a panoramic mountain backdrop. Some of the best hotels that overlook the sea can be found on the outskirts of town. Lara beach with its golden sands is 12km to the east and renowned as the best beach in this area and fast becoming a resort location. Another popular beach in the opposite of Lara heading west lies Konyaalti a beautiful and long pebble laden beach. . There are a variety of rare plant species and wildlife that are native to Belek and this city has won awards for having and building environmentally friendly developments.
Set on a 5 km long beach surrounded by untouched nature is Olympos. Olympos’s hold the ruins of the Roman theatre Necropolis. The ruins also include baths and a temple. North of the city is the legendary burning flame of Chimera located high on the hillside.
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