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Information about Kalkan, Turkey
Kalkan is a small seaside town on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey between
Antalya and Fethiye. The closest airport to Kalkan is the Dalaman airport, but you
may also come from Antalya. Long-distance coach is available from Istanbul.
The town of Kalkan is an enchanting place and one of the most beautiful locations along Turkey's Lycian Coast. Kalkan remains a charming and unspoiled haven of lush nature, brilliant blue crystal-clear sea, historic architecture, ancient history and warm traditional Turkish hospitality. More sophisticated than the usual resort town, Kalkan appeals to travelers looking for more than a beach holiday and has not been hit with mass tourism.
Kalkan is located on an ancient harbor at the foot of the Taurus Mountains. The town overlooks a splendid bay in which islands seem to float upon the sea. Because of Greek architectural influence you will see narrow streets that twist down to the harbor through the historic town and are lined with whitewashed villas that have shuttered windows and there are small local specialty shops and restaurants. You will also see ornately carved Ottoman timber balconies covered with brilliantly colored bougainvillea. It is a very special place to stay.
Besides the famous "Kalkan Style" historic architecture, the many excellent restaurants of Kalkan contribute to the special atmosphere within Kalkan. Good dining has always been the way of life in Kalkan and continues today. Kalkan is especially known in Turkey for its numerous roof terrace restaurants and bars, which offer a wonderful view of the town, sea and stars. You can also sit at one of the many fine harbor-side restaurants and watch the fishermen leave early in the morning as you eat breakfast, or see them return with the day's catch in the evening.
There are many ancient sites in the area including Xanthos, Letoon, Pinara, Tlos and Patara. Slightly further afield are the marvelous sights at Kekova, Demre, Myra, Phaselis, Olympos, Aspendos. Also a simple trip up to the mountains behind Kalkan will surely take your breath away and there are many mountain villages in the area. |