Azure waters lapping the shores of secluded coves. Islands cloaked in green pine forests. A landscape peppered with archaeological treasures and ancient sites. Göcek is somewhere to escape and enjoy a breath of fresh air. With a reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful yachting destinations, it’s made for laid-back escapes – whether out on the water or at a small, luxury hotel.
NATURE
Some of the beaches on Turkey’s Mediterranean shore are nesting grounds for loggerhead turtles. Ituzu beach, about an hour from Göcek, has a turtle sanctuary for learning more about these protected creatures. If you’re here during hatching season, take care not to disturb the turtles as they make their way to the water.
BEACHES & WATER
With its naturally sheltered coves and crystalline waters, Göcek has become an internationally-renowned yachting centre. Take day trips out to nearby islands, or simply enjoy sailing under clear blue skies. If you’d rather spend a day on the sand, Göcek has a private beach set up with sun loungers. Or you could drive to spectacular Oludeniz, said to be the most photographed beach on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.
HISTORY
In ancient times, Göcek was known as Kalimce – and ruins of this city can be seen beneath the water in some of the bays. Göcek is also close to Fethiye, a historic port town known for its archaeological remains. One of the most impressive is Tlos, a ruined hilltop citadel with houses and tombs carved into the rock face.
The nearby deserted mountain village of Kaya inspired Louis de Berniere’s acclaimed Turkish-set novel, ‘Birds without wings’.