Kalkan is a charming coastal town on Turkey’s southwestern Mediterranean coast, known for its stunning scenery, turquoise waters, and sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. Nestled between the towering Taurus Mountains and the shimmering sea, Kalkan offers a picturesque setting that attracts visitors looking for a mix of natural beauty, history, and a touch of luxury. Originally a small fishing village, it has retained its authentic charm while evolving into a sought-after destination for discerning travellers.
One of Kalkan’s most distinctive features is its whitewashed houses cascading down the hillside, adorned with vibrant bougainvillaea and offering breathtaking sea views. The town is famous for its charming old town, where narrow, winding streets are lined with boutique shops, traditional cafés, and rooftop restaurants serving delicious Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. The harbour area is particularly enchanting, with boats bobbing in the water and a selection of waterfront dining options that provide an idyllic setting for sunset meals.
Kalkan’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Nearby, visitors can find the ancient Lycian ruins of Patara and Xanthos, as well as the spectacular Saklıkent Gorge, a natural wonder perfect for adventurous hikes. The stunning Kaputaş Beach, with its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffside setting, is just a short drive away and is one of the most photographed beaches in Turkey. For those looking to explore the sea, boat trips from Kalkan’s harbour offer a chance to visit hidden coves, snorkel in secluded bays, and even take a trip to the sunken city of Kekova.
Despite its growth as a popular holiday destination, Kalkan has managed to maintain a more refined and tranquil atmosphere compared to some of Turkey’s busier coastal resorts. It appeals to couples, families, and travellers seeking a peaceful escape with a touch of elegance. Whether enjoying a leisurely meal in a rooftop restaurant, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking in the Mediterranean sunshine, Kalkan offers an unforgettable blend of relaxation and adventure.
The Region
Kalkan has become a boutique resort, with cobbled streets and converted Greek houses, which belonged to the Greek merchants before the exchange of population in the 1920’s. Once quiet fishing harbour, these days you are more likely to see traditional wooden gulets taking tourists to soak up rays on the sparkling turquoise Mediterranean. A boat trip is a must-do, from the boat you can snorkel and usually a delicious lunch is prepared on board. Keen walkers should check out the Lycian way for designated walking paths in the area.
You cannot come to this area without spending some time exploring the many Lycian sights, such as Xanthos, Patara, Myra or the sunken city of Kekova.
Patara is said to be where democracy started (they excavated a stone voting block) and is also said to be the birthplace of St Nicholas, who became bishop at nearby Myra. The ruins here include an ancient theatre, city walls, government building, and agora. The lighthouse on the site is said to be the earliest of its kind. Visit Patara in the late afternoon and finish the trip with a drink on the sandy beach watching the amazing sunset.
The Saklikent Gorge is a great place to visit, especially if you want to cool off in the fresh waters whilst walking up the gorge. For the more energetic there are rafts and rings to ride the flowing waters. Further down you can enjoy a day canoeing toward the beach.
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 and most tasty you’ve ever had; and the fresh chips cooked in olive oil take some beating.
By night both Kalkan and Kas come alive. Kas has more of a bohemian feel, people ambling through the cobbled streets, passing the ancient tomb in the street, haggling for textiles, carpets and other goodies, maybe stopping for the traditional Turkish ‘maras’ ice cream, a tulip-shaped glass of tea or a wonderful kebab in the shadow of the mosque. Most of the villas in Kas are just out of town on the Cukurbag Peninsula. A reasonable (5km) taxi or Dolmus (local bus) ride into town. Be sure to try the Piyaz, a white bean salad with tahini sauce.
Travelling along the coast towards Kalkan you pass the modern marina, the children’s beach park (run by the local hotel school) and halfway to Kalkan the stunning Kaputas Beach, cut in a gorge with all different shades of turquoise in the sea.
Kalkan is a more sophisticated resort, with the villas built onto the mountainside. Evening are spent enjoying the rooftop restaurants, perched on the top of the old ‘konak’ houses. Then wandering to a seaside bar for a cocktail, after shopping for glass lanterns, Iznik pottery, handbags or pestemel towels. Do visit the ‘pastane’, local patisseries which do the most delicious morning pastries and you must try the ‘Gozleme’ pancakes at the Thursday market.
Other things to do in the area include scuba diving as the visibility is excellent, paragliding, horseriding on Patara Beach or kayaking around the sunken ruins at Kekova.
