Kalkan Town
There is something unique about Kalkan that makes this a very special place to visit and the perfect place to experience a little bit of Turkey.
Nestled at the base of the Taurus mountains the pretty town descends to the sea in a maze of cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. This once sleepy fishing village now has an air of sophistication about it with an abundance of interesting shops, restaurants, bars and cafe’s. These all come to life as the sun goes down and the town buzzes with activity as visitors and locals alike enjoy the magical Kalkan nightlife.
Relaxation is easily found in Kalkan. You can stretch out in the sun by the water’s edge at the many beach clubs or enjoy the atmosphere of the town beach where the local children play and the water is clear and turquoise.
From Kalkan’s harbour, many of the beach clubs dotted around the bay are accessed by small colourful boats that provide a complimentary transfer service. Additionally, traditional wooden Gulets offer both day and evening boat trips to the beaches, islands and inlets nearby.
If you want to soak up Turkey’s colourful history, Kalkan is perfectly located in the heart of the Lycian region with numerous ancient historical sites within easy access.
There is something for everyone in Kalkan and as much or as little to do depending on how the mood takes you.
Beaches
The waters around Kalkan Bay have a Blue Flag award for cleanliness. They are a vivid turquoise colour, crystal clear and ideal for all forms of water sports.
Kalkan offers a choice of beaches. A large public pebble beach stretches along the harbour front. Alternatively the beach clubs are popular; these are cut into the hillside offering sunbathing, swimming and numerous water sports including scuba diving, water skiing, snorkelling and jet skis. They can be reached by frequent shuttle boats from the harbour and one can spend a lazy day doing as much or as little as you wish.
Kapatus Beach is a 10 min Dolmus (bus) ride offering a perfect sandy beach positioned on the crescent of a ravine.
Patara is a little further away (15km), but is well worth a visit. This is one of Turkeys most famous and photographed beaches, with 11 miles of unspoilt sand, surrounded by ancient Lycian Ruins.
A day out on a Gulet
There is no better way to experience the truly amazing coastline than aboard a traditionally built gulet. This lazy cruise will take you via Mouse and Snake Islands to local bays where you can swim from the boat, snorkel and go ashore to take a traditional mud bath. Lunch and afternoon tea are usually included in the price. Romantic evening dinner cruises are also available. Just stroll along the harbour at Kalkan to select the boat of your choice. (We have a few recommendations in our villa details)
Shopping
Kalkan offers a quaint village atmosphere with its numerous boutique style shops selling everything from antiques and Turkish carpets to locally produced handmade olive oil soap, jewellery and Turkish Delight as well as the perfect designer copies of the latest handbags, watches and sun glasses.
There is an assortment of supermarkets, green grocers and pharmacies selling everything you should need as well as Turkish delicatessens selling cooked chickens, local cheeses, eggs and honey.
Every Thursday Kalkan holds an open-air market. Local farmers come with fresh produce and spices, “Designer” goods are sold at knock-down prices and traditional pottery, leather and cotton goods are a real bargain. This is an opportunity to see how good your bartering skills are and a real fun experience.
Eating Out
Kalkan is renowned for its numerous restaurants which serve traditional Turkish, English, French or Italian cuisine. Particularly attractive are those with roof top terraces, they offer gorgeous views over the town and across the bay. In the evening you can sit and watch the sun set over the sea and dine under the stars. Alternatively you can sit at one of the many fine harbour-side restaurants and watch the boats go by.
A few Kalkan restaurants and hotels hold special “Turkish nights” once a week. These events are held on the rooftop or poolside terrace and feature traditional Turkish dishes, a belly dancing show, live Turkish music and/or regional folk dancing.
Kalkan also has all sorts of bars which give the town an exciting after dinner life. You might choose to listen to a gypsy band while sipping your raki – the strong Turkish aniseed drink – and reclining Ottoman-style upon cushions There are also a few jazz bars, other live-music bars and several popular small dancing bars.
Turkish Bath / Hammam
Indulge yourself in a steam and soap filled experience to remember. An extraordinary relaxing bathing experience that will leave you feeling de-stressed and revitalised. A great way to start your holiday!
We have lots of recommendations in our Villa Guide.
