Today we’ll be taking a deep dive into one of Europe’s hot spot destinations Turkey’s magnificent turquoise coast. The turquoise coast on the Aegean was set to be Mark Antony’s wedding gift to Cleopatra. A true natural jewel worthy of the most beautiful woman in the world. Spanning hundreds of miles along turkey’s southwest coast. This stunning Riviera earns its name because of its spectacular Azure blue waters. And the unspoiled teals and greens of a mineral coastline. In fact, the word turquoise itself is derived from old French meaning Turkish stone encompassing the provinces of Antalya and Mullah. The region is a relatively undiscovered fusion of ancient wonders and modern luxury at a comparatively affordable price.
Antalya
Antalya is the eastern gateway to the coast offering a gentle but sprawling entry point bathed in the shadow of Mount Olympus. This is a city worthy of the Gods coming complete with manicured golf courses, Roman temples, and lush green mountains. The old town is fortified by a once imposing wall but home to friendly locals. A vibrant modern atmosphere catered cruises. On a traditional Gulick are designed to accommodate all tastes and budgets. One of the best ways to experience the craggy coastline from the snow-capped peaks of distant mountains. To the Riviera’s distinctive rock tombs precariously crumbling ancient ruins and idyllic coves. The shoreline invites exploration and a palpable sense of history on the turquoise coast. You can’t escape the significance of the water even when further inland. Whether it’s the family, friendly fun of the water parks.
Antalya aquarium
The world-class aquarium at Antalya or the amazing scuba diving destinations. The region lives by the rhythm of the tide. This is a destination with an identity shaped by the water time and again the turquoise coast sandy haven. Consistently appear in lists of the best beaches on the planet. Delicious local fish our feature on every respectable menu. Though traditional meze spreads cater well to all diets. A typical breakfast will feature a selection of cheeses, olives, honey, jam, and sausage. All served with fluffy bread and fresh tomato and cucumber salads. The coast is a hub for turkeys’ wine and olive production and well-known for its exquisite and varied produce. A trip to any market will reveal tables laden with sumptuous fresh fruit and vegetables sold alongside the catch of the day.
Adventurous travelers can go on guided snorkeling trips in the shimmering waters all along the coast. Whether in the open sea or one of the region’s many lagoons. We recommend the Sapodilla Canyon where you’ll swim through waterfalls and warm waters. The three archaeological crown jewels in Cleopatra’s gift comprise two of the seven wonders of the ancient world. In the most complete ancient city to ever be excavated. The city of Ephesus is a UNESCO world heritage site around a hundred miles north of Bodrum. This was once the cultural heartland of ancient Greece. Later overtaken by the Romans before being captured by barbarians. As the Empire fell subsequently buried under a thousand years of silt. The city is stranded three miles inland from the coast to this day.
Hadrian’s gate
Less than 20% of the city has been fully excavated. Though we can accurately imagine its past glories from the Magnificent amphitheater to the richly symbolic Hadrian’s gate. The inspiring library of Celsus with its striking facade and statues of the virtues. Intended to inspire the citizenry. Nearby is the Temple of Artemis now a ruin. The site was devastated and rebuilt multiple times. Following earthquakes, arson, and flooding. A neighboring Church is believed to be the location. Where the Apostle st. Paul wrote his famous letter to the Ephesians pilgrims to the Riviera. May also seek out what is claimed to be the final resting place of st. John the Apostle. The only disciple to die of natural causes.
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
While less popular than the other ancient wonders. The mausoleum at Halicarnassus was no less magnificent. Built to house the body of Mausolus who gives his name to this ancient marvel. The construction and design were overseen by the best greek architects of the age. Standing roughly 150 feet tall. The building was lined with white marble and decorated with ornamentation sculptures and dozens of iconic columns. A small portion of the ruins remains on the opposite end of the coast. The city of Bodrum has been a vibrant port for millennia even featuring in Homer’s Odyssey. These days its glorious hillsides are home to an increasing number of private villas and luxury hotels. But why spend your time indoors when there’s so much life right outside.
Mausolus’s Stone Amphitheatre
Throughout the summer the bays and villages of the Riviera thrum with live music. Most restaurants will expect you to eat outside. Where the smell of the Aegean Sea will perfectly complement your food. Seafood lovers must try the stuffed mussels local delicacy containing spiced rice, pine nuts, lemon juice, and currants. Visitors might also like to spend a day at the castle of St. Peter. Whose construction began in the early 1400s. Inside this magnificent building, you’ll find a vibrant Museum of underwater archaeology. Commemorating the many significant shipwrecks uncovered throughout the region by daring divers.
Marmaris
The unique climate of the coast has allowed the garden of the castle to contain almost every plant and tree from the Mediterranean region. And is populated by parading peacocks who are appropriately turquoise and amber in color. Don’t forget to stop by the harbor at night to admire the mega yachts. Or party at one of the many excellent nightclubs or simply take a romantic walk along the beach. With a delicious done Dodoma ice cream famous for its unique chewy texture. There’s simply no doubt that the turquoise coast is world-class hotspot tourism. Boomed by a massive 22 percent in 2018 with ongoing development and restoration projects. This prime destination won’t remain much of a hidden gem for long. With 600 miles of spectacular shoreline to explore. One trip to the turquoise coast simply might not be enough.
