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.
