Situated on the coast of Turkey, a little way to the south west of Dalaman, is the small town of Dalyan. Though relatively small, Dalyan has a worldwide reputation, attracting tourists from far and wide for the numerous attractions it has on offer – history, nature, scenery, beaches, and culture are just some of the things you can enjoy while on holiday in Dalyan.

 

Dalyan is in south west Turkey, situated just set back from the coast and also benefiting from a riverside location, giving visitors the best of both worlds on a holiday in Dalyan. Less than 20 miles from Dalaman International Airport, Dalyan is easy to get to and the transfer from the airport should take only around 30 minutes.

 

Dalyan became world famous when in 1986 developers wanted to build hotels on the nearby Iztuzu Beach. Controversy was stirred because this beach is one of the breeding grounds of the rare loggerhead turtle. Even David Bellamy became involved in the fight to stop development, and luckily the conservationists won. To this day the beach is successfully protected between May and October when the turtles lay their eggs, however it can still be used during daylight hours and is enjoyed by many holidaymakers staying in Dalyan. What this meant for Dalyan was that there were quite a few hotels and other accommodation built in the town itself, where instead of enjoying sea views you can wake up to relaxing and scenic riverside views.

 

So what kind of accommodation is there in Dalyan? Well Dalyan has many different hotels, pensions, and self catering apartments. These include luxurious 5 star hotels like the Dalyan Resort, where there are many facilities to enjoy, to basic and affordable pensions and un-rated hotels where you’re guaranteed service with a smile!

 

A holiday in Dalyan has become so popular because of the diversity of attractions on offer here. Holidaymakers love the riverside setting of the town and the fact that most transport to get you around Dalyan and to the numerous attractions is actually by riverboat. Boats dart up and down the river, heading north into the freshwater Koycegiz Lake. At the foot of the lake is one of the area’s top archaeological sites, Kaunos (also spelt Caunos), and you should definitely visit this ancient city while on holiday in Dalyan.

 

Dating from the 9^th century BC, Kaunos features some great ruins including an amphitheatre and Roman baths, and a basilica from Byzantine times. If you come here as part of a boat tour, the chances are you’ll also have the opportunity to visit some local mud baths and hot springs where you can wallow and relax in the warm mud and waters!

 

In Dalyan itself there are some excellently preserved Lycean rock tombs that have been carved into the hillside. You can see these from the harbour in Dalyan and they’re quite easy to get to from the town.

 

If you’re craving a day on the beach, Iztuzu Beach (also widely known as Turtle Beach) will more than satisfy your need. This beautiful beach has plenty of room for everyone, and you can rent sun beds and sun shades. You’ll just have to make sure you’ve left by 8pm when the beach is closed to allow the rare turtles to come and nest here.

 

Dalyan has found the perfect mix between being both lively and relaxing. It’s a quaint town with some lovely restaurants and the usual helping of shops selling souvenirs and bargain items, yet it has a lively side too. There are some vibrant bars playing different kinds of music, some with live bands and entertainment, and a couple of discos if you want to dance the night away! You can pick up many different souvenirs of your holiday in Dalyan in the town’s shops, or wait until Saturday, Dalyan market day!