Belek - Antalya Region, Southern Turkey
Belek golf home page || Belek resort information
Belek dates back to the 4th century BC and at various times in its history has come under Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine rule. For those with an interest in history or archaeology, Belek provides the perfect base from which to visit such wonders as the great amphitheatre of Aspendos and the ancient city of Perga.
The Roman amphitheatre of Aspendos, to the east of Antalya, is in such good condition that even today it is used during the summer for concerts than cater for audiences of more than 10,000. The ancient ruins of Perga are about 15km to the east of Antalya.
Today Belek forms part of the Serik district of Antalya Province and is recognized as the golfing centre of Turkey. Tourism is the major industry with, to date, over thirty 4- and 5- star hotels in the area, plus many other hotels, villas and self-catering apartments.
Environmental Concerns
Whilst a lot of development has taken place to give Belek its golf centre status, the industry have and continue to work with environmental organisations to preserve the area - with marshes to the east of the forest and the nearby river - and to turn this site into a bird sanctuary. New species of birds, not previously noted as being in the area, have been sighted, and steps have been taken to ensure their continued protection. Additionally, the area is known as a nesting site for the Caretta caretta turtles - famous to Turkey - and again these are protected by a group of experts from a university in Turkey's capital, Ankara.