Combination trip or vacation Istanbul style
Istanbul is, of course, a stunning destination in itself. But when Istanbulites themselves go on a domestic vacation, the most popular destination is the country’s western coast. And perhaps the most popular place is Bodrum. And I am not surprised at all, because the Turkish western coast is breathtakingly beautiful – a paradise for all lovers of the sea.
We went on a road trip by car, but if you don’t want to spend time on the road, flying is also inexpensive (at least it has been so far) from Istanbul to destinations on the western coast. However, when driving, it is worth noting the fairly expensive tolls on major roads.
Additionally, it is good to remember that if you want to enjoy the beauty of the coastline and nature peacefully and in pleasant weather, avoid the midsummer tourist season and super heat. Spring is, in my opinion, the loveliest time.
Turquoise cruises
From several towns along the western coast, you can go on a day cruise, which includes lunch and stops at the most beautiful bays and beaches in the area (most of them are on untouched islands), so you can go straight from the boat to swim in the turquoise, crystal-clear Aegean Sea. On our cruise, it was also possible to enjoy a hot spring located in a cave.
If you have plenty of time, you can go on a longer several-day cruise along the western coast from the Aegean Sea to even as far as the Mediterranean, where you will see and experience stunning beauty on a large scale. And now we’re talking about small, charming boats, often even beautiful wooden sailing ships. Or, if you prefer, you can also choose ultra-luxury.
Awesome west coast
We didn’t have time for a long cruise this time, but just a day cruise and the beauty of the western coast’s nature as a whole were like a visit to paradise for a sea lover like myself – let the photos and little videos of this post tell you about the dazzling beauty of the turquoise sea, crystal-clear waters, and stunning nature.
Uyku Vadisi and Gökçeler Kanyonu
Turkey’s hidden paradise, Sleeping Valley (Uyku Vadisi) in the Muğla province, is aptly named, just like a pristine gem “in the middle of nowhere” – even though it’s only a little less than 50 kilometers from Bodrum. An essential part of the area’s uniqueness is also the breathtakingly beautiful Gökçeler Canyon (Gökçeler Kanyonu).
We also found the charming treasure of this hidden paradise, the small Uyku Vadisi Hotel, which was like nature’s secret garden and a peaceful oasis.
The Uyku Vadisi Hotel felt like a family community in the lap of nature: an idyllic place, friendly service, excellent food, and domestic animals roaming freely in a beautiful natural environment. I would have wanted to stay here to write; an ideal place for any quiet creative work or meditative retreat. Although probably during peak season, in the summer, the peace we experienced, in the spring, does not exist.
The Gökçeler Canyon, located near the Uyku Vadisi Hotel, is popular among nature lovers, mountain climbers, hikers, and cave explorers. True to its name, it is a majestic but lush 8-kilometer-long canyon with streams, ponds, waterfalls, and caves.
The area’s flora is diverse, consisting of centuries-old olive, walnut, fig, plane, and laurel trees, red pine, and various shrub species. Naturally, there is also a rich variety of animal species.
More information: Uyku Vadisi
We can only admire this incredibly beautiful nature with gratitude – and also remember to appreciate, respect, and protect our entire planet, so vital to us.