Kalkan in Turkey is an enchanting fishing village lined with golden sands and lapped by the warm Mediterranean. Its charming harbour and traditional Turkish atmosphere makes it a wonderfully relaxing destination and a popular base for exploring the famous Lycian region.
But there is more to this beautiful town than just a pretty face. Beneath its sunny exterior lies a fascinating and complex land. Your Kalkan holidays will reveal not only the region’s breathtaking beauty, but also its immense historical importance
Kekova
One of the most enjoyable ways to pass the time on your Kalkan holidays is to explore the stunning Lycian coastline by boat. You can either hire your own vessel or go on an organised tour from Kalkan or Kas. Only a short distance off the coast is Kekova Island. The area known as Kekova is actually a collection of small uninhabited islands and picturesque bays, but the main island was actually once part of the mainland. Over thousands of years, geological activity has caused changes in the land’s elevation and caused parts of it to submerge completely beneath the glassy waters of the Mediterranean. As you glide across the crystal waters, running parallel to the coastline you can clearly see the forms of the crumbling sarcophagi and tombs that lie beneath. This ancient ‘city of the dead’ is a powerful reminder of the strength of nature and, although you are not permitted to dive the area, it is an awesome if somewhat eerie sight.
Simena
As you continue up the coast by sea, the ancient town of Simena will come into view. Again, you can see the submerged sections of the original town as you pass over the top. Although you can also reach Simena by road, sailing into this picturesque harbour with views to the castle on the hill, will be one of the highlights of your Kalkan holidays.
Dating back to the 4th century BC, Simena has a wonderful collection of medieval buildings and architecture. If you wander up the hill from the harbour, you can explore the many rock tombs and ancient carvings along the way. The village itself was rebuilt after being razed during Persian invasion, but it has preserved many of the relics of its ancient culture.
Simena Castle sits high on the hill overlooking all of Kekova. It was built by the Knights of Rhodes on ancient Lycian foundations and it still a stunningly well preserved site. It is surrounded by the ruins of the original city and just outside the castle is Lycia’s smallest amphitheatre. You can sit in its tiered rows and gaze out to magical views over the Mediterranean and across to what may be your next port of call – Ucagiz.
Ucagiz
For a truly authentic taste of Turkey you should visit the tiny, still unspoilt fishing village of Ucagiz – abut an hour or so by car or boat from Kalkan. Holidays to the Lycian region are like taking a giant step back in time and villages like Ucagiz reveal the true face of ancient Turkey. The cobbled streets are dotted with the tall stone tombs of the Lycian culture, and you will see some beautiful old houses and architecture. Although there is no accessible beach in Ucagiz, you can rent a small boat from the local marina and explore the peaceful harbour with its submerged ruins.
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