Kalkan
Kalkan is a beautiful and popular resort on Turkey’s sparkling Turquoise Coast. Favoured by both couples and groups, its superb location is great for sightseeing. Kalkan is an upbeat resort with a real unique charm that comes alive after dark. The cobbled streets and picturesque harbour add a touch of tradition to this modern, sophisticated seaside town.
Excellent beaches
The Blue Flag beaches that line the coast of Kalkan are beautiful. A long stretch of soft, white sand shelves gently into calm, glistening waters. The tranquil waves make the beach ideal for relaxing afternoons, reclining on sun loungers under parasols. If you’re after a more upbeat activity, there are lots of water sports available, from water skiing and paragliding to banana boats and canoeing.
Cafés and restaurants line the coast where you can eat fresh seafood and sip on delicious cocktails. A pleasant, pebbly beach lies next to the beautiful harbour, where the sun-soaked sea is a perfect romantic spot to sit and watch the boats dance on the horizon at nightfall.
History and culture
Kalkan was once a working fishing town and a safe harbour between Kaş and Fethiye. Its traditional character can still be seen through the cobbled streets of whitewashed houses that sit along the shore. Kalkan is close to significant, historic landmarks including Kayakoy; an evacuated ghost town and the Lycian city ruins of Tlos. Tourism has only become apparent in the last 40 or so years so the town still thrives on the traditional Turkish laid-back way of life.
Lively nightlife
Aside from its romantic setting and rich history, Kalkan has a vibrant nightlife to keep you entertained. Whether you want a quiet drink in a scenic setting or a dance floor in a buzzing nightclub, this modern town has it all.
Things To Do
What was once a small fishing village has blossomed into one of the most sophisticated and popular holiday destinations along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. While it bears all the hallmarks of a haven for those who want to do nothing but relax, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to do in Kalkan, Turkey.
Shopping in the Old Quarter
If you love shopping then head for the Old Quarter, where you’ll find the whitewashed, winding streets hiding quirky shops and unique boutiques. Mid-week is when the market comes to town and the backstreets brim with stalls selling traditional Turkish rugs (kilims), jewellery, handmade arts and crafts, and fresh produce.
In and under the sea
For adventurous types, a day at sea in a traditional Turkish boat (gϋlet) is one of the most fascinating things to do in Kalkan and the best way to appreciate the natural beauty of the coastline. If the crystal-clear waters look inviting, you can go for a boat cruise, where the anchor is thrown down and you can go for a refreshing swim. Alternatively, the Aegean provides excellent conditions for snorkelling or scuba-diving.
Travel back in time
Xanthos is one of the most popular attractions in the area, offering a fascinating insight into Kalkan’s past. Alongside a magnificent Roman amphitheatre, you’ll find the remains of an ancient temple and a range of vast tombs. Look out for the Xanthian Obelisk and the oddly-named ‘Happy Tomb’.
With so many things to do in Kalkan, you can make your holiday as laid back or as up-tempo as you want it to be.
Also, Kalkan is one of the most beautiful places to rent a villa and have a villa holiday.
