'Unspoilt' Turkish town 19-miles from famous spot where barely any Brits visit
Half an hour away from the bustling region of Marmaris, Turkey, and you'll find the peaceful 'slow town' of Akyaka - which feels like you've transported to whole different world
Half an hour away from the bustling region of Marmaris, Turkey, and you'll find the peaceful 'slow town' of Akyaka - which feels like you've transported to whole different worldThis sleepy town needs to be on your bucket list (
Image: Getty Images)
It's hard to believe this tranquil town, tucked between lush mountains and crystal clear waters, is just half an hour away from a party-mad hotspot. Despite fears Turkey's tourism sector is suffering due to rising prices and nearby rivals rapidly gaining popularity - a staggering 4.4 million tourists from the UK visited the country last year.
This is a 16 per cent hike compared to 2023, and shows that Turkey has established itself as a worthy destination amongst Brits. Many flock to the south, known as the Turquoise Coast or Turkish Riviera, due to its balmy temperatures, golden beaches, and lively nightlife.
Here, you'll find resort-heavy destinations like Marmaris - which are filled with mega all-inclusive hotels that provide the perfect 'fly-and-flop' experience. However, just 19 miles north of the Brit-saturated region is the idyllic town of Akyaka.
Akyaka feels like you're a million miles away from hotspots like Marmaris (
Image:
Getty Images)
Renowned for its peaceful environment and surrounded by pine trees, Akyaka is a popular hotspot amongst domestic tourists - but doesn't seem to attract many Brits. In 2011 it was officially crowned a 'slow town', marking its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. But, that doesn't mean it's boring. In fact, Akyaka has a stellar reputation when it comes to outdoor sports and - due to its geographical location - is a great spot for windsurfing, sea kayaking, biking, kitesurfing, rock climbing, sailing, paragliding, rafting, trekking, and riding.
"Tucked into the crook of the towering Taurus mountains, Akyaka spills out along the edge of Gokova Bay; a cittaslow (slow town) that has slipped off the UK tourist radar and is all the better for it," raved The Times. "By day, old wooden boats potter up and down the Azmak River, which is lined with restaurants specialising in freshly caught fish; at night the beach is flipped into a giant alfresco cocktail bar, with restaurant tables on the sand."
The town is split into two areas: the lush wild side and the tourist-friendly strip with restaurants and shops (
Image:
Getty Images/iStockphoto)
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The nearest airport to Akyaka is Dalaman, which is around a one hour and five-minute drive. You can fly directly here from a slew of major UK airports, including Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, and Stansted. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab a proper bargain. For example, return fares in March are currently going for just £31.
Accommodation varies depending on your budget, but there is pretty much something for everyone. A week at the Liya Boutique Hotel & Suites, a three-star hotel, would set you back £225. This is based on two people staying from Monday, March 10 - 17. A more luxury hotel, the Yucelen, costs £578 for the same dates.
*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com results at the time of writing.
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