Kalkan is a small charming town located on Turkey’s south Mediterranean coast, is often known as the Turquoise Coast due to its beautiful turquoise waters and blue flag award-winning sea. This part of Turkey is as far away from the troubles in Syria, as London is from Paris, and remains a peaceful haven for local residents and thousands of holidaymakers each year. Many guests say they feel safer here than at home, so don’t let the media put you off. The fact is that Turkey is still a very safe country with little violent crime.
Nestled at the foot of the Taurus mountains in a bay by the sea, it is easy to see why Kalkan is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Mediterranean coast” or “Turkeys best kept secret”. The history of Kalkan goes back to when both Greeks and Turks lived here together, fishing the waters and harvesting the olives for a living, and the peaceful bay has a history that goes back further as the bay was used to shelter ships from bad weather, as it does so today also. For approximately 200 years Kalkan has steadily grown into a small town with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, but it has not lost its intimacy and charm. It has become sophisticated, attracting European holidaymakers (particularly the British) with its warm weather, stunning beaches and an excellent array of restaurants. It is said that there are more restaurants in Kalkan per square metre than anywhere else in Turkey!
By day most Kalkan visitors enjoy lapping up the sun by the pool, the beach or the local beach clubs located around the bay. At nightfall many dress for dinner and head into the centre of the town centre to choose where they will enjoy their next delicious meal; maybe by the harbour or at one of Kalkan’s many rooftop restaurants overlooking the sea. Whatever your budget you will find great food to enjoy, from local meze’s (starters) to Turkish Pide (pizza) and kebabs, to delicately grilled sea bass or slowly cooked lamb shank, it is often said that you would be very unlucky indeed to have a bad meal in Kalkan. All washed down of course with the local Efes Beer, Raki or wine. Kalkan’s nightlife is low-key and limited to a number of outside music bars catering for a mix of ages and music tastes. There is enough for youngsters to be entertained in the busy July and August holidays.
If you are hoping for a bit more than just a sun and sea holiday then you will find this too. Within a 10 to 45-minute drive of the town, are the stunning beaches of Kaputas and Patara, the gorge at Saklikent and too many historic sites to mention. Then there are daily boat trips from the harbour, the joys of a Turkish bath and for the men, the experience of a Turkish barber’s shave. Just take a look at the Kalkan Guide on this website for more ideas.
Most of all Kalkan is renowned for its excellent choice of private holiday rentals, which are offered to a high standard and represent excellent value for money. Whether you want a small apartment or a large villa with an infinity pool we have it all.