The villages of Gokova and Akyaka are often mistaken for being one and the same place, though in fact they are two different villages, situated just a short distance apart. Located at the very head of the Gokova Gulf, this is a quiet and peaceful Turkish holiday destination where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and relaxing days and nights without the usual hordes of tourists often found on the spectacular Aegean Coast.

 

The village of Gokova is actually mainly located about a mile inland from the Gulf, on the hills overlooking this picturesque corner of Southern Turkey. Akyaka is right on the bay, sitting at sea level, so you have direct access to a nice beach and a marina.

 

Both villages are located just a short dive south of the town of Mugla, or about the same distance north of the popular resort town of Marmaris. In terms of flights to Akyaka and Gokova you have two choices – Milas Bodrum Airport, or Dalaman Airport but for the shortest transfer time from the airport to your Gokova hotel you should choose Dalaman International Airport, about 40 miles away.

 

A holiday in Akyaka and Gokova has long been popular with Turkish holidaymakers, but in more recent years other visitors are discovering the beauty of this peaceful spot. So far, hotel development has been low key and hence there are not huge numbers of hotels in Akyaka to choose from. Booking well in advance for this fairly exclusive little piece of Turkish coastline is therefore highly recommended.

 

With only a few hotels, pensions and apartments in Gokova and Akyaka to choose from, and limited resources when it comes to nightlife, this destination definitely won’t appeal to those of you who are looking for a vibrant nightlife, tons of restaurants and shops. It’s a Turkish holiday destination for those who want to experience the more traditional villages that have been relatively untouched by outside forces.

 

There are several pensions in Akyaka and Gokova, and in Akyaka you can also choose to stay in a couple of hotels or apartments including the highly rated Yucelen Hotel and Resort which has its own swimming pool, restaurant, fitness centre and more.

 

For most visitors the attraction of a holiday in Akyaka and Gokova is the peace and quiet. Turkey’s Aegean Coast is simply stunning and the Gokova Gulf, which the villages front on to, is no exception. This is the kind of place where you can just sit back and relax, soaking in the views and the great weather, enjoying the beach or the hotel swimming pool.

 

If and when you feel like getting active how does hiking in the mountains sound? There are beautiful pine clad mountains surrounding Akyaka and Gokova just waiting to be hiked and explored, and they’re well of the usual beaten track. Though hiking into the mountains does take some effort you’ll be rewarded with some magnificent views.

 

Southern Turkey is also famous for its many archaeological sites that show us evidence of the ancient civilisations who have called this place home over the millennia. There are some spectacular sites, like Ephesus, that are within reach for a day trip, but you don’t have to go far to experience history when you’re on holiday in Gokova as there is history and ruins right here in the village. For starters the traditional Turkish homes in Gokova are simply beautiful, dating back 150 years or more. For more ancient history there are ruins and rock tombs that date back to the 4^th or 5^th century BC when the city of Idyma existed here. The ruins are impressive though unfortunately not accessible by road, you’ll need to climb to get to them.

 

Both Akyaka and Gokova are not places you would come on holiday to for the nightlife, but that’s what appeals to most visitors about these Turkish villages! You’re pretty much guaranteed a relaxing holiday in Akyaka, yet there are some nice restaurants and friendly bars where you can enjoy a good meal and a drink when you want to.

 

If you enjoy shopping for souvenirs and bargains you may be better visiting nearby Marmaris and there are hundreds of shops and a bazaar here, but for bits and bobs Gokova and Akyaka will have what you need. Gokova in fact has the largest open air market in the area and it takes place on a Saturday so makes a great place to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables and more.