Luxury Villas in Kalkan

Our villas in Kalkan have been handpicked for their enchanting charm, fabulous locations and top-notch facilities. You can breathe a sigh of relief in knowing your villa holiday to Kalkan has never been easier. With our insider expertise, we can help plan the sort of Turkish holiday that effortlessly captures the authenticity of the country alongside our luxury villas. 

We have a great selection of luxury villas in Kalkan, which is why we guarantee that there will be something for everyone. And if you’re yet to visit Kalkan, we implore you to put ‘holiday to Kalkan’ at the top of your list this year. 

Why visit Kalkan? 

  • The contrasting landscapes offer a wealth of adventures, from the rugged and dramatic Taurus Mountains for walking and hiking, to the handful of sandy beaches where you can enjoy thrilling water-sports
  • Kalkan is on the Lycian coast and is well-known for its history: ancient Lycian ruins, hanging tombs and UNESCO World Heritage Sites are spread across its landscapes. 
  • Water babies will be happy with the selection of activities on offer, with its incredible diving, snorkelling and boat trip excursions.

 

 

Read the Kalkan Travel Guide

Why stay with us?

Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked villas in Kalkan have this in spades. We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking villas that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our villas are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.

Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you want a fully-stocked fridge, a local in-house chef to cook your meals, housekeeping or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.

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Luxury Villas in Kalkan: Our Top Picks

Why visit

The former fishing village of Kalkan is today a lively upmarket resort, villas cleverly positioned on the mountainside ensuring every villa has a sea view. A ninety-minute drive from Dalaman airport, discerning holidaymakers can't get enough of this quaint town. The pretty cobbled streets come alive at night, with rooftop restaurants enjoying the romantic coastal views.

Our Travel Guide will fill you in on all the ins and outs of beautiful Kalkan.

Beaches in Kalkan

For one, it’s the perfect haven for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy the beautiful azure sea and breathtaking beaches. Just a few miles west of Kalkan sits Patara Beach, boasting twelve kilometres of silky sand; not to mention the stunning Lycian ruins sitting just behind the beach. Then there's pebbly Kalkan Beach which suits families with young children to a tee. The much photographed Kaputas Beach is formed by a gorge that opens to the sea. Kaputas is incredibly popular with the locals, and often you’ll see the gulets (boats) and yachts making the most of turquoise waters.  

And if you don’t like brushing sand off of your skin, or if you want a little more luxury, Kalkan has several beach clubs, cut into the rocks of the coast. Each one offers sunbeds, water-sports, and a restaurant with drinks services. Our best beaches in Kalkan blog has the full round-up of where to go.

History and architecture

Its appeal doesn't end there - famous for its whitewashed houses with bougainvillaea draping the walls, holidaymakers will step back in time to the 1920s where Greek influences reigned supreme in both history and picturesque architecture.

The town also has the regal Taurus Mountains forming a backdrop (which you can explore by walking the historic Lycian Way walking track), alongside an exquisite harbour full of Turkish wooden gulets (boats), and a beautiful historic old town which extends back from the sea. 

Things to do

Kalkan has adventures on both land and sea. A daily gulet trip on the beautiful waters of the Mediterranean is something not to be missed. The captain will cook up a delicious feast in the small galley, followed by plenty of fresh fruit to freshen up the palate. If you're keen, ask the captain for a fishing line, as you may be able to fish for your lunch. Or perhaps, whittle the hours away snorkelling; who knows, you might be lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins or a turtle swimming with you. It’s also possible to book other activities such as canoeing, water-sports, and horse riding to name a few.

For a full list of things to do in Kalkan (at sea and on land), check out our blog

Kalkan for foodies

Kalkan's topography has given restaurateurs ample space to start some of the most remarkable eateries. Many located on roof terraces are the most sought-after simply because of the unrivalled Mediterranean views.

Mezes remain the core of Turkish cookery and an excellent option for vegetarian holidaymakers - and that's all before the main course arrives. The Turks are passionate about their food; they celebrate breakfast with a spread that puts the ordinary continental breakfast to shame, and have perfected the gözleme – a thin pancake usually with a savoury filling.

When in Turkey, you'll never be far away from tea. Home-produced leaf tea is served in a tulip tea glass. The regular kind is served black and most locals will drink it with a cube of sugar. If that’s not to your taste ask to try the sage, apple or rosehip varieties. Another drink you may be offered is a salty yoghurt drink, called Ayran, said to help rehydrate you in the summer heat.

If you’d prefer something alcoholic, try a refreshing locally produced Efes, Turkey’s most popular beer. If you’re eating fish, Raki is the traditional accompaniment. This aniseed liquor magically turns white on the addition of water, giving it the apt nickname of ‘Lion’s Milk’. In recent years the local wines have become more desirable, and well worth trying. 

With a diverse range of Kalkan holiday villas on offer, you can enjoy the region in a totally authentic manner.

Why it's perfect for families

  • For babiesEnjoy the Kalamar Beach Club including water-side sun loungers and children’s water activities as well as a sea-side restaurant offering Turkish and English menu choices and drinks.
  • For kids: Enjoy the beautiful beaches including Kaputas Beach, which is popular with families.  Spend the day building sandcastles or take some time to explore the rugged coastline with the little ones.
  • For teensIf playing in the water is one of the activities your children love the most, then Kalkan will be the ideal spot.  Teenagers will love the water-sports available around the beach clubs, from boat trips and kayaking to paddle boarding. 

Top tips

  • The Turkish Riviera: Boat trips are very popular in Turkey, and a great way to explore nearby islands (and the sunken city is a must!).
  • Strong rip tides: Patara beach is by far one of the best beaches in Turkey, but be careful in the water as the rip tides are strong!
  • Eat local: While there are plenty of international cafes and restaurants, the local tavernas are obviously the most authentic. 

What Oliver loves

Kalkan has the vibe of somewhere that feels a little undiscovered, even though it's thriving. Its scenery is impressive too with its turquoise sea, rugged mountains, and rooftop restaurants above the cobbled streets!

Kalkan's towns and villages

Between the soaring landscapes lies the land of the Lycians (a mysterious civilisation with ruins scattered along this coast). The architecture is mesmerising and can be experienced at many sites within a short drive of Kalkan. Sites such as Xanthos, Patara, Tlos and Letoon are just a few to mention.There are places of history which St Nicholas is said to have served as Bishop (Myra) and been born in Patara. If you’re a keen walker the Lycian way is a marked walking route covering over 500km; a word to the wise - the route is rather tricky especially with the uneven surfaces. The route is best tackled in cooler months.

Kalkan undoubtedly ticks off a lot of boxes. The cobbled streets perfectly align with the towns laid-back atmosphere. So, if there was ever a time to visit Kalkan it would be now – while it’s still relatively undiscovered.

From villas only a short walk to the beach to those with a private pool, our villas are sure to be the icing on the cake of a gorgeous Turkish holiday.

Oliver's Hidden Gem

It has to be the sunken city of Kekova! Although you can't stay there (for obvious reasons!) you can visit on a boat trip. The submerged ruins are something else.

If you’re looking for countryside living, the Turkish village of Islamlar sits at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, boasting breathtaking views over Kalkan Bay. Experience an authentic Turkish lifestyle in a tranquil oasis. 

Well-known for its incredible scuba diving sites, Kaş is a seaside town perfect for those into water-sports. Boat trips, kayaking and hiking are top of the agenda here, and history buffs won’t be disappointed with its smattering of ancient Lycian sites. 

Patara is a small, charming village and is home to long, sandy Patara Beach. This 11-mile stretch of golden sand makes it uncrowded, and the infamous Lycian ruins lie just behind, making up a preserved archaeological zone just waiting to be explored!

Lying just on the outskirts of Kalkan, this small village is perfect for a day trip. While there’s not much to entertain tourists during the course of the week, Sunday brings a bustling market which really is a must-visit!

A traditional village nestled high on the mountains, where you’ll find locals going about their daily life the way their ancestors did – Bezirgan is the perfect place to experience a working Turkish village. Wander the charming streets, discover ancient Lycian ruins and meet the friendly locals. 

If you want to get out and explore the Taurus Mountains, there’s no better place to do it than Gömbe. Visit the lively market, walk the mountain trails, and soak up the awe-inspiring views of the Green Lake, which overlooks a luscious valley.

Kalkan travel: Getting there and around

Due to its thriving tourist hotspots, Kalkan has come a long way since its fishing village days and is easily accessible. If you want to truly explore the region, there are a few ways to get around. Take advantage and go out to discover the ancient ruined cities, mountainscapes and gorgeous beaches.

By flight

Airlines such as easyJet, TUI, Thomas Cook Airlines and British Airways all run direct flights from the UK to Dalaman Airport. The flight is just over four hours.

By car

Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore the region. There are hire companies at Dalaman Airport. The drive to Kalkan takes just over two hours (there is a toll en route). Alternatively, taxis/private shuttles, such as Ilara Turizm, work well for non-drivers and larger groups.

Public transport

Buses are the cheapest (yet longest) transfers. They involve changing en route. Havas run buses from Dalaman Airport to Fethiye, where you can then board a Batı Antalya bus bound for Kalkan. When you get to Kalkan, there are regular bus services to take you to the nearest beaches etc. 

By boat

Heading out on a boat trip is one of the most popular things to do in Turkey, and Kalkan is no exception. Hop on a gulet day cruise from the harbour, which often includes food and drink, swimming spots, island and beach exploring!

Top tips

  • If you want to hire a car on your holiday, be aware that "damage excess waiver" does not include damage to the tyres, windscreen or undercarriage, so you may want to look for your own insurance. Drivers must be over 21-years-old. 
  • You can only get to Patara by road, so you'll have to get a bus or go by car. 
  • If you're headed to a beach club, there are free shuttle boats that operate from the harbour.

 

From the blog...