This picturesque resort town along Turkey’s southeastern coast is just a few miles down the road from the lively Marmaris, offering a quieter visit for those who like to be close to nature while enjoying easy access to a buzzing town.
This pretty town is tucked away in a stunning bay along the Mediterranean coast, offering a combination of gentle sea, rugged mountains and lush greenery. People are drawn here for nature; the mountains are ideal for hiking and exploring, with trails embedded into peaceful valleys and pathways that lead to panoramic viewpoints and hidden coves. There’s also a scenic coastal promenade between Içmeler and Marmaris for those who don’t want to venture up into the mountains. You can stroll or rent bikes to explore the route, with plenty of places to stop for authentic Turkish cuisine and ice cream along the way.
Family-friendly boat trips are a fabulous way to get to know the nearby islands and surrounding bays. Kids will love the dolphin-watching tours and island-hopping boat rides, where you can swim and snorkel throughout the day.
If you want a more authentic adventure, opt for an excursion on a classic Turkish gulet and experience a traditional part of Turkey’s maritime culture. Most boat trips come with lunch or dinner, usually including a feast of fresh seafood and Turkish specialities, as well as stops for swimming and snorkelling and ample family-friendly activities.
Içmeler means “springs” in Turkish, which pays homage to the heritage of the town’s hot springs. Although there aren’t many left these days, historically, people would visit the town to drink and bathe in the spring waters because of their natural curing powers. You can, however, visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis to see mysterious stone moments and take a dip in the warm mineral springs for yourself. It’s said to be where Cleopatra, the last queen of ancient Egypt, bathed thousands of years ago.
Içmeler Beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, making it a popular spot for swimming and frolicking in the sea. There’s also a gentle slope, meaning the water gets gradually deeper with no unexpected drop-offs, so it’s super safe for children. Rent a couple of sunbeds and spend the day soaking up the sun, or get stuck into water sports. The area is a water sporting hotspot offering jet skiing, parasailing, pedalos, wakeboarding,…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Independent Travel…