Kalkan - Southern Turkey
The upmarket resort of Kalkan (Kalamaki) nestles in a beautiful bay on Southern Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast in the east of the Antalya Province. Bounded on one side by the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Taurus mountains to the east this is truly an unspoilt, traditional hideaway for the discerning traveler.
Kalkan was originally a fishing village and small port, yet during the 19th century was actually more important than the larger ports at Fethiye and Antalya. As internal transport systems grew, Kalkans' importance as a port diminished and during the 1960's it entered the tourism industry, catering initially for wealthy English yachtsmen.
Today Kalkan is a sophisticated resort with a marina catering for the numerous visiting yachts and many classy hotels, villas and apartments all aiming to provide a memorable stay in this picturesque town.
Kalkan by Day
During the day the ambience of Kalkan is reminiscent of its fishing village roots with visitors spending lazy days around the pool, enjoying the hospitality of the many beach clubs or people-watching from the many harbourside cafes and bars. Throughout the day gullets (traditional Turkish boats) come and go, taking tourists on a seemingly endless choice of sea-bound day trips.
Kalkan has strenuously retained its traditional character whilst undergoing the inevitable expansion. The locals are extremely (and genuinely) friendly and, unlike other resorts, you will not be harassed by any trader as the town has united behind a hassle-free policy. During the heat of the day it is a pleasure to browse the many shops and boutiques scattered throughout the labyrinth of narrow, shaded streets.
Every Thursday there is a popular market where you can while away many an hour seeking out anything from traditional souvenirs to quality gold jewelry, all at discount prices.
For the more adventurous there is scuba diving (amongst the best in Turkey), paragliding (from nearby Mount Asaz), white water rafting/canoeing (Dalaman River) and horse trekking through the stunning local countryside.
Alternatively we can arrange a huge choice of tailor-made day trips (escorted or not) to satisfy even the most demanding appetite for the historical, cultural and religious history of Turkey.
Kalkan by Night
As the sun sets Kalkans streets come to life with visitors and locals alike heading for the cafes, bars and restaurants spread throughout the town. Despite its size, Kalkan has over 100 restaurants and bars (it is claimed to have more per square meter than any other Turkish coastal town). Yet the mood is relaxed and friendly as Kalkan does not cater for the party crowd.
In the early evening as you stroll through the town and harbour you will see families enjoying a meal, couples sharing an aperitif or two around the marina, everyone taking the evening at their own pace. Eating out in Kalkan is quite an experience with many restaurants offering rooftop dining - eating the freshest of seafood in the cool evening air, looking out over the sea to the nearby island of Meis, with the Taurus Mountains providing a spectacular backdrop is something you will remember for a lifetime. Later you can join people relaxing in their favourite Blues of Jazz bar, dance till the early hours or take in a live performance of traditional or modern Turkish music.
See also:
Eating out in Kalkan | Shopping in Kalkan | Beach Clubs in Kalkan | Property in Kalkan | Days out around Kalkan | Kalkan