Villa Pancar

 Found at the foot of the Taurus Mountains on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, the town of Kalkan displays a rich history and maintains a traditional feel. While largely dependent on tourism, the town hasn’t lost the sense of what it has been for centuries. Old, whitewashed houses line the streets which meander their way towards the beautiful harbour – the architecture that shapes the look and feel of the town is more likely to point to its Ottoman Greek past than the modern, high-rise style that characterises some resorts.

Residents of Kalkan are proud of their town and have many good reasons to be. The pretty Old Town is a welcoming place, and the hospitality of the locals is both evident and genuine – you may be offered a small, tulip-shaped glass of tea, or çay in the street!

What’s more, it’s a fantastic place to dine out in the sunshine. Kalkan’s rooftop restauarants and bars are the stuff of legend. With such stunning Mediterranean views, it’s no surprise many visitors don’t leave much before midnight, although with multiple courses of amazing local fare and Turkish coffee to get through, you might be there a while in any case. Fresh fish and seafood are a menu staple – just another perk of the enchanting location.

You won’t find strips of nightclubs in Kalkan, but you can enjoy jazz and other live music in small bars around town, some of which offer the opportunity for a bit of dancing too. You can expect to encounter some local flavour at many venues, whether it’s hookah pipes, gypsy bands, shots of raki or, of course, belly dancing.

Kalkan prides itself on a hassle-free shopping experience, and the colourful crafts, clothes and carpets you will see being traded all add character to a trip to the Old Town. Antiques, jewellery and hand-woven rugs are amongst the attractions – even if you’re not in the market to buy, it’s well worth taking a look around.

You will find a white, pebble beach beside the harbour in Kalkan, 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. Around 20 minutes’ drive away, or accessible by bus, Patara is home to the longest beach in Turkey, while the closer Kaputas is another particularly scenic stretch. You will find many beach clubs along the coast too, offering water-sports, dining, infinity pools and other temptations.

Beyond Kalkan, the region offers everything from high-adrenaline activity to total relaxation. From jet-skiing and paraglilding to ancient ruins and sunset sea cruises, you’ll find something to suit your pace. You could even pop across to the Greek islands which lie not too far from this part of the Turkish coast.

Read more about Islamlar

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.