Guide to Luxury Holidays in Dalaman Area
As part of the gorgeous Turkish Riviera, the area of Dalaman blends pristine beaches with a rich cultural history and fine Turkish dining. Along the coast, from west to east, you can explore renowned destinations like Marmaris, Dalyan and Fethiye. Luxury Dalaman Area holidays offer you a range of activities like sailing, surfing, water-skiing and scuba diving.
Meet Marmaris, a stunning beach town typical of the region, and one of the best along the coast for families. Try the thrilling rides of Atlantis Waterpark, hike through the vibrant Marmaris National Park, walk the medieval ramparts of Marmaris Castle, and explore the large stretch of gold sand at Icmeler Beach. Then get your bartering hats at the ready and head to the Grand Bazaar, a fantastic shopping complex with a great range of stores, boutiques and jewellery shops. Like large parts of Turkey, you'll find world-class beaches and important historical sites within easy reach of one another.
At the quaint riverside town of Dalyan, take a trip to the breathtaking Iztuzu Beach. Also known as Turtle Beach, this wide sandy bay is where the endangered loggerhead turtles come to lay their eggs. Nearby, you'll find the ancient city of Kaunos with its rock-cut tombs.
At Fethiye, explore the ancient hilltop citadel of Tlos and the eerie abandoned village of Kayakoy. Wander the beautiful Butterfly Valley, home to rare butterflies, and a rugged canyon dovetailed with a golden beach.
For dedicated sun worshippers, visit Oludeniz where you'll find the magical Blue Lagoon and the white sands of Belcegiz Beach. After a day relaxing, try Gocek Shopping Street with its lively market stalls.
With a Mediterranean climate, the Dalaman region enjoys hot summers and mild winters. You'll find the best weather from June to September with temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius. These are popular months to visit, especially in July and August, when the weather is at its warmest.
Outside of these months, you'll find temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. If you like weather that is cooler than the Dalaman summer, but still warm enough for relaxing on the beach, try visiting in April or May.
You should carry some identification with you at all times and it's a good idea to keep a photocopy of your passport. Visitors need a visa to enter Turkey and can apply online for an e-visa before travelling. GOV.UK for more advice on passports, visas and travel.
With Middle Eastern, Asian and Mediterranean influences, Turkish cuisine is varied and refined. Begin your day with a breakfast buffet and then move through to the main courses at dinner. Try pizzas cooked in a wood fire oven, Mediterranean seafood, tender steaks and meat grills, as well as Indian platters and Italian pasta.
Then sample traditional Turkish dishes, which comprise of favourites like hummus, dolmas, and baklava. Be sure to try peynirli borek, a delicious flaky pastry filled with spinach and cheese.
