Dalyan is really one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets.
Iztuzu Beach locally known as ‘Turtle Beach’ has been designated as a conservation area of outstanding natural beauty. Voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world by the 'Times'.
Caretta (‘ loggerhead’) turtles nest on the beach from May to September. At the top end of the beach there is a Turtle sanctuary where you can view rescue turtles in their tanks. The beach is about 6 km long and is beautiful to walk along. Where you are dropped off by river boat it is a 2 minute walk to the beach restaurant. There are changing rooms and toilets available and sun beds can be hired on the beach.
You can travel to one end of the beach by bus (Dolmus) which leaves from the town square, or by river boat which leaves from the jetty.
One option is to go by bus and see the Turtle Sanctuary at the end of the beach which is really interesting and great for children. You can also walk to the far end of the beach and return by boat. Your journey is flexible.
Rock Tombs of the Kings Theses tombs are the resting places of the kings of Caunos.
Rock tombs can be seen along the Lycian coast, with the best examples located at Dalyan.
The Ancient City of Kaunos A short river boat ride will take you to the site of the ancient city of Kaunos. Kaunos was once a significant trading port in ancient times, however, over time its harbour filled with sand and silt. You can easily visit the city by crossing the river at the jetty (rowing boats) and walking the 15minutes along the road to the entrance of the ruins. There is a small entrance charge to the ruins.
Important features to look out for are the rock tombs, ruins of the city walls, the theatre with its stage area and 33 rows of seating still intact. In addition to this, there are Roman baths, a temple, basilica, meeting hall and a lot of sculpture bases.
Thermal Springs and Mud Baths Dalyan is the centre for many therapeutic hot springs and mud baths. The waters contain radioactive elements and sulphur believed to offer beneficial relief from many disorders. Mud baths are also said to remedy many health conditions as well as offering beauty treatment for the skin. Boats leave frequently from Dalyan jetty to the mud baths, or charter your own boat!
Lake Koyceoiz The lake has been almost completely cut off from the sea by the sediment carried down by the local rivers. However, there is still a channel that links the lake to the sea. Boat trips are available on the lake and you can go on small boat trips in the evening or late at night for star gazing.
The small island in the lake is known as Hapishane Adasıi (Prison Island). The island was once used for military purposes and later had a prison built on it. The remains of a Genovese castle are also evident on the island.
Things to do within easy driving distance:
Health resort and Spa
River boat cruises / Sailing / Canoeing
Island Tours - tour the coastal islands in a big sailing boat
Jeep Safari
Scuba diving
Cycling / Treking
Quad bikes (some great mountain trails)
Fishing
White Water Rafting
Horseriding
Turkish Baths (we recommend the Spa Hotel in Dalyan which is a 6 - 8 minute walk from the apartments).
