Heaven in Earth / Antalya Part 1

Kutay1984

3mS6...vZUH

19 Jan 2024

Antalya is a major tourism hub in Turkey, attracting visitors from around the world with its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant culture. The city is situated on the southwestern coast of Turkey and is part of the Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast. Here are some key aspects of tourism in Antalya:

https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antalya

Beaches: Antalya boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters. Konyaaltı and Lara Beach are two popular choices, offering a mix of relaxation and water sports.
Historical Sites: The region is rich in history, with ancient ruins and archaeological sites. Highlights include the ancient city of Perge, the Aspendos theater, and the Temple of Apollo in Side.
Old Town (Kaleiçi): This historic district features narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and charming boutiques. It's a great place to explore on foot, with numerous cafes, shops, and historical landmarks.
Museums: Antalya is home to the Antalya Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the region's history, including pieces from the ancient cities of Perge and Termessos.
Nature and Outdoor Activities: The surrounding region offers diverse landscapes, including the Taurus Mountains and waterfalls like Düden Waterfalls. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, paragliding, and boat tours.
Golf Tourism: Antalya has become a popular destination for golf enthusiasts, with several world-class golf courses in the region.
Luxury Resorts and Hotels: The area is known for its luxurious accommodations, including high-end resorts that offer all-inclusive packages.
Nightlife and Entertainment: Antalya has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Many resorts also offer evening shows and performances.
Shopping: Visitors can explore traditional markets (bazaars) and modern shopping centers for a variety of local products, textiles, and souvenirs.
Culinary Experiences: Antalya offers a diverse culinary scene with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. Try traditional Turkish dishes, seafood, and sweets like baklava.

In this Part I'll only mention some of the beaches in Antalya

KONYAALTI BEACH

Konyaaltı Sahili (Konyaaltı Beach) is a popular and well-known beach in Antalya, Turkey. It is one of the main beaches in the city, offering a picturesque setting along the Mediterranean coastline. Here are some key features and information about Konyaaltı Beach:

Location: Konyaaltı Beach is located on the western side of Antalya, extending from the cliffs near the city center to the Beydağları Mountains.
Scenery: The beach is known for its stunning views of the Taurus Mountains and the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The backdrop of the mountains provides a scenic and tranquil setting.
Length: Konyaaltı Beach is a long stretch of pebbly shore, providing ample space for visitors to relax and enjoy the sun.
Facilities: The beach is well-equipped with various facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside cafes. Visitors can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a comfortable day by the sea.
Water Sports: Konyaaltı Beach offers a range of water sports and activities for those seeking adventure. These can include jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Promenade: The beach is accompanied by a wide promenade where visitors can take leisurely strolls, enjoy the sea breeze, and explore nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Evening Atmosphere: In the evenings, Konyaaltı Beach transforms into a vibrant social hub. Many locals and tourists gather to enjoy the sunset, have a drink at the seaside bars, or dine in the restaurants along the promenade.
Accessibility: Konyaaltı Beach is easily accessible from the city center by public transportation, and there are parking facilities for those arriving by car.
Events and Festivals: Occasionally, the beach hosts events, festivals, and concerts, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing day under the sun, water activities, or an evening out by the coast, Konyaaltı Beach provides a versatile and enjoyable experience for visitors to Antalya. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

World-famous beaches, lush plateaus, majestic mountains, camping areas, amusement parks and cultural riches await you in Konyaaltı.

It is at the western end of Antalya and one of the central districts. Konyaaltı is adjacent to Kemer in the south, Döşemealtı in the north, and Korkuteli in the northwest. The district has a connection to Kepez via Çakırlar Road and to Muratpaşa via Dumlupınar Boulevard.

The history of Konyaaltı dates back to the Lycian period. The name of the settlement in the Konyaaltı region of the Lycian Civilization, whose borders stretch from Arapsuyu to Boğaçayı, is Olbia. There are two separate rumors about the origin of the name Konyaaltı. The first of these is those who came to Antalya from Konya. In the Ottoman Period, it was a big city. Use the expression Konyaaltı to mean we went under Konya when they saw the beach. The other is that because Antalya is on the cliffs, the region is called 'Alti Bay', and this word has turned into Konyaaltı over time.

Konyaaltı has a high agricultural potential, with its land varying from 0 to 2500 meters altitude. In the district, where vegetable cultivation is intense, Doyran Eggplant is an important export product as tomatoes and zucchini. Çandır Bean and Hacısekililer Orange are branded values unique to Konyaaltı. Small cattle breeding and beekeeping are carried out in the highlands of the district. They are famous for their endemic plants and forests, where traditional festivals are held at certain times of the year.

In addition to its natural and geographical beauties, Konyaaltı hosts millions of local and foreign tourists to luxurious and comfortable hotels every year. The district hosts the Antalya Port. It also includes some of the Beydağları and Boğaçayı, and Çandır Streams within its borders.

Konyaaltı has high tourism potential. It has an atmosphere that appeals to those who seek peace and movement. The numerous excursion routes of the district offer ideal environments not only to the tourists who come to the region. Also, for residents of the city to get away from the noise and stress of the city. Especially on weekends, the beaches, plateaus, forested areas of the district are flooded by those who want to be alone with nature.

It is among the various activity options that attract visitors. You can enjoy the deep blue sea, enjoy the snow on high peaks, embrace nature in the highlands where you can breathe the mountain air, get away from the stress of the city by going to the camping sites, or add movement and color to your day with amusement parks.

https://antalya.com.tr/en/antalya/districts/konyaalti

LARA BEACH

Lara Beach (Lara Sahili) is another renowned coastal area in Antalya, Turkey, situated to the east of the city center. It is known for its long, sandy shoreline and upscale beach resorts. Here are some key features and information about Lara Beach:

Location: Lara Beach is located approximately 12 kilometers east of Antalya's city center.
Sandy Shoreline: Unlike Konyaaltı Beach, Lara Beach is characterized by its long stretch of sandy coastline. The fine, golden sand provides a comfortable and inviting setting for beachgoers.
Luxury Resorts: The Lara Beach area is famous for its high-end, all-inclusive beach resorts. These resorts often feature impressive architecture and offer a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, spa facilities, and various recreational activities.
Beach Clubs: Many resorts along Lara Beach have their own private beach areas and beach clubs where guests can enjoy exclusive services, comfortable loungers, and water sports.
Water Sports: Similar to Konyaaltı Beach, Lara Beach offers a variety of water sports and activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Promenade: The beach is accompanied by a pleasant promenade where visitors can take a leisurely walk, enjoy the sea views, and find a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Nightlife: Some of the beach clubs and resorts along Lara Beach offer entertainment and nightlife options, making it a popular destination for those seeking evening activities by the sea.
Accessibility: Lara Beach is easily accessible from the city center, and transportation options are available for visitors staying in other parts of Antalya.
Events and Performances: During the summer months, Lara Beach may host events, live music performances, and other entertainment activities for both guests and locals.

Lara Beach is known for its luxurious and glamorous atmosphere, making it a preferred destination for those looking for a high-end beach experience in Antalya. Whether you prefer a relaxing day on the sand, water adventures, or upscale resort amenities, Lara Beach provides a range of options for a memorable seaside retreat.

https://antalya.com.tr/en/discovery/nature/bays-beaches/lara-beach

KEMER BEACH

Turquoise waters, world-famous beaches, unique coves, lush natural beauties, adrenaline-filled activities and unlimited entertainment life await you in Kemer.

Kemer is 45 km from Antalya city centre. It is on the foothills of the Western Taurus Mountains. The district is surrounded by Kumluca in the east, Konyaaltı in the north, and the Mediterranean Sea in the south and west.

The oldest history of Kemer dates back to 690 BC, the foundation of the Ancient City of Phaselis. The city has been an important trade and maritime center throughout history. It passed under the rule of the Turks in the 12th century. In the district's location, at the beginning of the 1900s, there was a settlement covered with swampy land called Eskiköy. The local people built kilometers of stone walls on the foothills of the mountains to protect them from frequent floods, and because of these walls, the district was called Kemer over time. The region was a town in 1986. It gained the status of a district in 1990.

Kemer is one of Turkey's most important tourism destinations with its 52 km coastline. Until the 1980s, citrus and pomegranate production and greenhouse cultivation were among the most important income sources of the district. Still, after this date, tourism has become the main source of income.

Kemer has a unique nature where the sea and the forest embrace thanks to the dense vegetation surrounding it. Famous for their unique beauties such as Beldibi, Göynük, Kiriş, Çamyuva, Tekirova, and Çıralı stand out with their luxurious and comfortable accommodation options. They host thousands of local and foreign tourists every year. The district draws attention with its clear blue waters, coves reminiscent of paradise on earth, vast blue flag beaches, fragrant pine forests and magnificent ruins that trace the history. It is home to countless riches. It is a favorite of nature lovers with its caves and canyons, plateaus, mountains covered with forests. Amusement parks welcome those who want to spend hours full of excitement and adrenaline. The district center is vivid every moment, especially during the tourism season. It appeals to guests of all ages with attractive shopping opportunities, a lively bazaar and entertaining nightclubs.

The district is famous for its festivals and cultural and artistic events held traditionally every year. In addition to many other organizations such as Phaselis Festival, Kemer Carnival Altın Nar Culture and Art Festival, fairs, exhibitions, and sports tournaments add vitality to Kemer's social life and ensure that the district always has a lively atmosphere.

Kemer embraces everyone with its unique atmosphere where history and nature are intertwined. You will have an unforgettable experience in Kemer. If you desire a quiet and calm holiday, you can spend peaceful hours in the lap of nature, where green and blue are fused, and if you prefer more active days, you can plan an intense program full of activities.

1. Location: Kemer is located to the southwest of Antalya and is part of the Turkish Riviera. It is known for its scenic coastal views and proximity to the Taurus Mountains.

2. Beaches: Kemer offers several beaches along its coastline, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the notable beaches include Moonlight Beach (Ayışığı Plajı), Kemer Public Beach, and Phaselis Beach.

3. Moonlight Beach (Ayışığı Plajı): This is one of the main beaches in Kemer and is known for its pebble-strewn shores. The beach is well-equipped with facilities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports activities.

4. Kemer Public Beach: This is a public beach in the heart of Kemer, offering a mix of pebbles and sand. It's conveniently located near the town center, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

5. Phaselis Beach: Located near the ancient city of Phaselis, this beach offers a tranquil setting surrounded by historical ruins. Visitors can combine beach time with a visit to the archaeological site.

6. Water Activities: Similar to other beaches in the region, Kemer beaches offer a range of water sports, including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

7. Yacht Marina: Kemer is also known for its marina, where visitors can find luxury yachts, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or dine in waterfront restaurants.

8. Nightlife: Kemer has a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and entertainment options. The town comes alive in the evenings, offering a vibrant atmosphere.

9. Nature and Adventure: The surrounding area of Kemer provides opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby mountains or exploring the Goynuk Canyon.

10. Olympos Teleferik (Cable Car): For panoramic views of the region, visitors can take a cable car ride from Kemer to the summit of Tahtalı Mountain.

Kemer offers a mix of natural beauty, historical attractions, and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're interested in sunbathing, water sports, or exploring the natural and historical sites, Kemer has something to offer for a diverse range of visitors.