At the foot of the Taurus Mountains, the town of Kalkan retains a traditional feel. Old, whitewashed houses line the streets which meander their way to the harbour, and despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Kalkan has remained pleasingly undeveloped. Located on the route of the Lycian Way, Turkey’s most popular long-distance walking trail, it’s a great base for exploring on foot too.
Kalkan is known as an amazing place to dine, with many of its rooftop restauarants and bars enjoying stunning Mediterranean views. You may spend a long evening working your way through courses of fresh seafood or other tempting local fare, finished off with Turkish coffee. Kalkan isn’t a big party town, but you are sure to find some entertainment in the bars around town, whether it’s live jazz or gypsy bands, or even a spot of belly dancing.
You will find a white, pebble beach beside the harbour, where you rent a lounger and parasol and soak up as much sun as you choose. The area’s most popular sandy beaches are within reach too. Accessible by bus, or a 20-minute drive away, Patara is home to the longest beach in Turkey. Along the coast are various beach clubs along the coast too, offering water-sports, dining and irresistible infinity pools.
Kalkan prides itself on a hassle-free shopping experience. You will see all sorts of crafts, carpets, clothes, antiques and more on sale around the Old Town – this bustling trade adds a vibrant character to the place.
The region around Kalkan offers both high-adrenaline activity and total relaxation, with everything from jet-skiing and paraglilding to ancient ruins and sunset sea cruises. You could even pop across to the Greek islands which aren’t so far away from this part of Turkey.
Of course, the area is rich in history too, so don’t miss out on exploring the region’s archaeological highlights. Patara’s ruins, which include a huge theatre, parliament building and Roman baths, are well worth a look.
The Region
Islamlar sits 8 km above Kalkan. Once the place Kalkan folk went to cool off at one of the trout farms built to make use of the mountain’s springs. Today Islamlar houses many a villa, enjoyed by Istanbul Turks who prefer a holiday in slightly cooler and cleaner air. Here the locals grow grapes and pomegranates, but you’ll mainly see the men sat gossiping next to the local teahouse. The trout farms remain a place to come for a wonderful fresh meal, or a breakfast consisting of fresh local fare. The rocket will be the freshest & most tasty you’ve ever had; and the fresh chips cooked in olive oil take some beating.
