Villa Zeynep

Islamlar, near Kalkan, is very much an escape from it all destination, offering a sense of authentic Turkish Village life within striking distance of the turquoise coast. Direct daily flights from the UK, an enjoyable 95-minute transfer together with a consistent Mediterranean climate make this region one of the most desirable choices for your well-deserved vacation. This rural corner has remained very much untouched for centuries, with agricultural traditions being the beating heart of the local community. Islamlar is a quintessential rural settlement within a fifteen minute drive of the picture-postcard and elegant harbour town of Kalkan, famed for its charming, cobbled passageways, archetypal waterfront, and seriously chic roof terrace restaurants.

Perched on the foothills of the Taurus range, the landscape adopts a lusher tone than nearby Kalkan. The hillsides amok with vines, an abundance of fruit trees and a stream that runs down the valley, flanked by trout restaurants. Once a Greek settlement, and known locally as Bodemya, the area enjoys a calm breeze, created by the flowing spring waters which run off the mountains. Traditionally, it was popular for the wealthy merchants from Kalkan to maintain a second home here to escape the intense summer heat. The area is criss-crossed by the ancient Lycian way, a demanding walking trail affording some of the most scenic panoramic vistas you can imagine.

The village is dotted with intriguing small restaurants, servicing the local community and villa trade, many of which enjoy sensational views across the valley below and beyond to Mouse and Snake islands. Enjoy the low key atmosphere and relaxingly refreshing ambience. The village still retains two working mills where villagers bring their grains to be turned into flower. Unwind to the soothing tune of the water mill while sipping on a chilled glass of wine from a vineyard local to the area. The fare is authentic, local, and bursting with flavour, produced on the fertile plains of the valley by self-sufficient locals.

Descend from the mountainous passes to the sparkling inky sea. A plethora of upmarket beach clubs ring the horseshoe bay where Kalkan proudly takes centre stage. This relaxing and well serviced concept makes it easy to spend time lingering and socialising by the water’s edge. Kaputas, is probably the most photographed beach in this southwestern corner of Turkey and is well worth a visit, just 10 minutes east of Kalkan. Venture, a similar distance in the other direction, west, to the ancient city of Patara. The beautiful golden sand is a breeding ground for the loggerhead turtles, strict conservation restrictions have ensured this 18 kilometre shoreline remains undeveloped. Behind the dunes we recommend you explore the ancient port which is possibly the most fascinating Lycian site in the region.

There is a myriad of interesting places to explore and time can easily be spent between relaxation and exploration on land or at sea. Whether you wish to visit ancient sites, sail on a traditional wooden gulet from cove to cove or enjoy an exhilarating morning of canyoning. There is something to be enjoyed by everyone. Islamlar is a fine base from which to explore the very best of the Turquoise 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.