Situated at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, Kalkan has become one of the most popular resorts on Turkey’s south-western coast. A town of a manageable size with a pebble beach, it attracts those looking to enjoy water sports as well as relaxed dining scene which nightlife.
Kalkan is known for its many of its rooftop restaurants and bars. While the prices may be on the high side, you will often be getting an amazing Mediterranean view thrown in. The area around the harbour is the natural place to start, and you’ll find a good range of food on offer. Traditional Turkish is surely the way to go, or you could try out the local seafood.
Beside the harbour, Kalkan’s pebble beach is a popular hangout. It gets very busy in high season, but you have other good options if you travel a little further. Accessible by bus, or a 20-minute drive away, the sandy Patara Beach is an especially lengthy one. Waters stay warm throughout the year, particularly from May until around November. For beach dining, pools, water sports and other attractions, there are plenty of beach clubs to check out along the coast.
Kalkan is located on the route of the Lycian Way, Turkey’s most popular long-distance walking trail. Diving is one activity that really draws visitors to Kalkan and the surrounding area. Organised tours will take you right to the best spots, with Kalkan Harbour the starting point.
All sorts of water sports are offered, with tuition available for beginners. You can find sea kayaking, jet-skiing and paddleboarding opportunities in the area. If you’re not a lover of the water, you can always get hiking – Kalkan lies on the 500km Lycian Way, Turkey’s longest walking route.
Wandering the Old Town should be a pleasant experience – streets run down to the harbour and are filled with cafés and boutiques to browse. Carpets, clothing, accessories and jewellery are all well represented. You can also visit a weekly market in Kalkan.
When you reach the harbour, you are sure to see plenty of wooden gulets – these handsome boats are often the craft of choice for visitors cruising around the area. Lots of little coves and islets may attract your attention along the way, while major points of interest include the underwater remnants of the city of Kekova.
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.
