Kalkan: Nature Meets History

Are you interested in nature or history when making holiday plans? How about both?

Kalkan is an old Mediterranean fishing town, occupying the mesmerizing coasts and overlooking the turquoise Mediterranean views. You can enjoy a swim, take a cruise tour or chill at the sandy beaches of Kaputas and Patara.

If you would like to discover the historical part of the town, you can visit Kekova and Tlos ancient cities and open a window to the past.

All you need is to come to Antalya’s pearl Kekova and indulge yourself.

Getting to Kalkan, Turkey, can be done via different modes of transport:

Air: The closest airport to Kalkan is Dalaman Airport, which is around 125 kilometers away. The airport is well-connected with many major cities around the world, especially during the summer months. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, rent a car, or take a shuttle bus to reach Kalkan. Another option is Antalya Airport, which is slightly farther at around 200 kilometers, but may offer more flight options.

Car: If you are already in Turkey, you can reach Kalkan by car. The D400 highway, one of the major roads in southern Turkey, passes nearby. Car rental services are available in major cities and airports. Keep in mind that driving in Turkey might be challenging due to different traffic rules and conditions.

Bus: Turkey has a very well-developed long-distance bus network. Many companies offer services from cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to Fethiye, which is close to Kalkan. From Fethiye, you can take a local bus or taxi to Kalkan.

What to pack for Kalkan depends on the season during which you’re visiting:

1. Summer (June – September): Kalkan, like the rest of the Mediterranean region of Turkey, experiences hot and dry summers. The following items are recommended:

Light, breathable clothing such as linen or cotton

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection

Comfortable sandals or shoes for walking

Swimsuit for beach activities and swimming

Light jacket or sweater for cool evenings

2. Fall (October – November) and Spring (April – May): The weather is moderate and pleasant during these seasons. It’s advisable to pack:

Light to medium-weight clothing

A medium-weight jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures

Comfortable walking shoes

An umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers

3. Winter (December – March): Winters are mild but can be rainy, especially in December and January. You should consider:

Warm clothing, such as sweaters and long pants

A waterproof jacket or coat for the rain

Waterproof shoes

Kalkan is a charming town with a selection of places to stay that cater to different needs and budgets. Here are some of the best accommodations:

Villa Mahal: This boutique hotel offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, an infinity pool, and a private beach. Each room has a different design that complements the natural surroundings.

Likya Residence Hotel & Spa: This is a luxury hotel that offers beautiful sea views and a spa. It’s just a short walk from Kalkan’s town center.

Happy Hotel Kalkan: A more budget-friendly option, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views and a lovely pool area.

Kulube Hotel: Nestled into the hillside, this hotel has a rustic charm, with a series of terraces leading down to the sea.

Asfiya Sea View Hotel: A modern luxury option with stunning sea views, a pool, and an onsite restaurant.

Courtyard Hotel: This is a small boutique hotel in the center of the town with just a few rooms. It’s known for its hospitality and beautiful garden.

Patara Prince Hotel & Resort: Located just outside Kalkan, this resort offers more extensive facilities, including multiple pools, restaurants, and a private beach.

Kalkan, like much of the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, has a Mediterranean climate. This means it enjoys long, hot summers with very little rain and mild, wet winters.

Summer temperatures (June – September) typically range from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit), although they can sometimes reach higher. This is the best time for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities. The sea remains warm well into autumn thanks to the intense summer heat.

Winter temperatures (December – February) typically range from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). Although rainfall is more frequent during these months, there are still many sunny days, and the region is much less crowded than in the peak tourist season.

Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with generally mild and pleasant weather, though there can be occasional rainfall. These seasons can be an ideal time to visit if you want to avoid extreme heat and heavy tourist crowds. The sea is often still warm enough for swimming, especially in autumn

The best time to visit Kalkan depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking to do.

If you’re looking for warm weather and beach time, the summer months (June through September) offer the highest temperatures and the longest days. These months are perfect for swimming, boating, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so the town can be crowded, and prices for accommodations can be higher.

If you want to avoid the busiest crowds but still enjoy good weather, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November). During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, but not as hot as in the summer. The sea can still be warm enough for swimming, especially in the early part of autumn.

If you’re more interested in exploring the region’s historical sites, winter (December through March) might be a good time to visit. The weather is cooler, and there’s more chance of rain, but the main attractions are less crowded, and accommodation prices are often lower.

Kalkan is a small town on the southern coast of Turkey, in the Antalya province. Its history is relatively recent compared to some other Turkish towns, with most of its development taking place in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Originally a small fishing village known as “Kalamaki,” it was part of the Ottoman Empire. Its location on a hillside overlooking a bay made it an ideal place for a harbor. The town gained significance in the late 19th century as a port for the region’s sponge diving and grain shipping industries.

During this time, Greek Orthodox Christians made up the majority of the population. They built many of the old buildings in Kalkan, some of which can still be seen today, especially in the old town area. These buildings are known for their Greek architectural style, characterized by white-washed walls, wooden balconies, and shuttered windows.

However, the population exchange between Greece and Turkey in the 1920s dramatically changed the town’s demographic. The Greek Orthodox residents of Kalkan were relocated to Greece, and Muslims from Crete were settled in Kalkan.

For much of the 20th century, Kalkan remained a quiet, relatively unknown place. It wasn’t until the 1980s that it began to gain a reputation as a tourist destination. Since then, it has developed a distinctive character as an upscale resort town, known for its charming old town area, beautiful beaches, and stunning sea views.

Please note that historical records for smaller towns like Kalkan can sometimes be limited, and more detailed historical information may be available through local sources or historical archives in Turkey.

Kalkan, being a small and relatively new town, does not have as many “famous firsts” or “greatest” historical events as more prominent cities might. However, it’s a place known for its unique charm, beautiful setting, and remarkable transformation.

Remarkable Transformation: One of the “greatest” things about Kalkan is its transformation from a small fishing village into an upscale resort town within just a few decades. This shift is particularly notable given that the town has preserved its historical architecture and natural beauty despite its rapid growth.

First Tourism Boom: The tourism boom in the 1980s was a significant turning point in Kalkan’s history. It was during this period that the town first began attracting tourists from around the world, particularly from the UK. This tourism boom led to economic growth and infrastructural development, yet Kalkan has managed to maintain its charm and avoid becoming over-commercialized.

Natural Beauty: Kalkan’s natural environment is one of its greatest assets. The town is nestled on a hillside overlooking a beautiful bay, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The coastline around Kalkan is also famous for its Blue Flag beaches and clear waters, making it a popular destination for swimming and snorkeling.

Culinary Scene: Kalkan is famous for its vibrant culinary scene. The town has a high number of quality restaurants and bars for its size, serving a range of cuisine from traditional Turkish dishes to international fare. Many of these establishments offer beautiful views of the bay, enhancing the dining experience.

Kalkan is a charming town, although relatively small in size, it is located close to several notable historical sites and has some local attractions as well.

Patara Ancient City: Just a short distance from Kalkan, Patara is an ancient Lycian city with a stunning beach and a collection of ruins, including a theatre, baths, and a granary. Patara is also known as the birthplace of St. Nicholas, who became known as Santa Claus.

Xanthos: Another significant ancient Lycian city near Kalkan is Xanthos. Xanthos was the capital city of the Lycian Federation and its greatest city for most of Lycian history. It’s an archaeological site holding a large number of monuments.

Kalkan’s Old Town: The Old Town of Kalkan itself is a charming place with a distinctive historical atmosphere. The winding streets are lined with old Greek and Turkish houses, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants.

Kaputas Beach: While not a historical site in the traditional sense, this stunning beach situated between Kalkan and Kas is located in a gorge and is said to be formed by a geological event thousands of years ago.

Letoon: Just outside of Kalkan, Letoon was once a sacred cultic center in the Lycian region. It has many ruins, including temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis, and Apollo.

Tlos: Another Lycian site near Kalkan, Tlos, is one of the oldest and largest settlements of Lycia and was inhabited from the Bronze Age through to the Ottoman era. The site includes a Roman-era amphitheater, numerous tombs, and a fortress.

Here are some of the best things to do in Kalkan:

1. 1. Visit Patara Beach: This is one of the longest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean and it’s also a nesting site for loggerhead turtles.
   2. Explore Kalkan’s Old Town: The old town of Kalkan is full of narrow streets, traditional houses, boutiques, and cafes.
   3. Visit Kaputas Beach: This small beach is located at the bottom of a gorge and is known for its turquoise waters.
   4. Boat Trips: Take a boat trip around Kalkan’s beautiful bay and visit the nearby islands.
   5. Visit the Ancient City of Patara: Patara is known for its impressive archaeological site, which includes a well-preserved theatre, a council chamber, and a temple.
   6. Dining in Kalkan: Kalkan is famous for its rooftop dining, where you can enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine with stunning views of the town and sea.
   7. Explore Xanthos: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient Lycian city with ruins that date back to the 8th century BC.
   8. Scuba Diving: Kalkan offers excellent scuba diving opportunities with its clear water and rich marine life.
   9. Visit Saklikent Gorge: A trip to Saklikent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world, will give you the chance to hike and wade in the canyon’s cool waters.
   10. Visit the Sunken City of Kekova: Take a boat trip to see this ancient city, which was submerged after an earthquake.
   11. Visit Tlos: This ancient city is one of the oldest and largest settlements of Lycian civilization and is home to fascinating ruins.
   12. Pamper Yourself at a Turkish Bath (Hamam): Experience the traditional Turkish bath for relaxation and rejuvenation.
   13. Shopping at Kalkan Market: A great place to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, textiles, and traditional Turkish goods.
   14. Cooking Classes: Join a cooking class to learn about Turkish cuisine and make some delicious dishes yourself.
   15. Visit the Lycian Way: Hike on sections of this 500 km long footpath which stretches from Fethiye to Antalya, passing through Kalkan. It offers stunning views of mountains and coastline.

The best places to visit in Kalkan, Turkey are:

Patara Beach: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey, it’s also a nesting site for the endangered Loggerhead Turtles. Its ancient ruins make it a site of historical interest as well.

Kalkan Old Town: Known for its whitewashed houses and colorful bougainvillea, the Old Town is a charming place to wander, shop, and dine.

Kaputas Beach: This stunning beach is located in a gorge and is known for its turquoise waters.

Xanthos: An ancient city of Lycia and a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s about a half-hour drive from Kalkan and well worth a visit for history enthusiasts.

Patara Ruins: Close to Patara Beach, these ruins of an ancient Lycian city include a well-preserved theatre, a Byzantine basilica, and the remains of a once grand Roman triumphal arch.

Saklikent Gorge: Just a short drive from Kalkan, the gorge is the second largest in Europe and offers fantastic hiking opportunities.

The Sunken City of Kekova: You can take a boat trip from Kalkan to this ancient city, which was partially submerged in the sea after an earthquake.

Tlos: Another ancient Lycian city, located around an hour’s drive from Kalkan. Here you’ll find Roman baths, an Ottoman-era fortress, and rock-cut tombs.

Lycian Way: This is one of the world’s top long-distance hiking trails. A section of the trail runs near Kalkan, offering stunning views of the coastline and mountains.

Kalkan Marina: It’s a lively area with boats, restaurants, and shops.

Here are a few examples:

Boat Tours: Exploring the coastline by boat is one of the most popular activities in Kalkan. Many tours include stops at various bays, the sunken city of Kekova, and Kaputas Beach.

Jeep Safari: A fun way to explore the mountainous hinterland of Kalkan. These trips often include a visit to Saklikent Gorge and Patara Beach.

Paragliding: For the adventurous, paragliding over the stunning turquoise coast provides breathtaking views.

Scuba Diving: Kalkan’s clear, warm waters are ideal for diving, and several operators offer dive tours for all levels of experience.

Lycian History Tours: These tours typically visit several of the ancient Lycian cities nearby, such as Xanthos, Patara, and Tlos.

Hiking Tours: The Lycian Way, one of the world’s greatest long-distance hiking trails, passes nearby and guided hiking tours are available.

Fishing Trips: Enjoy a relaxing day out fishing in the beautiful bays around Kalkan.

Cooking Classes and Culinary Tours: Learn about Turkish cuisine, visit local markets, and learn to prepare traditional dishes.

Day trips to Fethiye, Kas, and Dalyan: Larger towns and cities nearby also offer additional tour options.

Here are some places to visit in Kalkan in winter:

Patara Ruins: Just a short drive from Kalkan, the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara are worth exploring. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have the chance to really take in history.

Saklikent Gorge: While it can be quite cold, Saklikent Gorge is an incredible sight in the winter months. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.

Local Restaurants and Cafes: Enjoy the local cuisine and hospitality. Turkish tea or coffee by a cozy fireplace can be a wonderful experience.

Hiking the Lycian Way: The cooler weather of winter makes it a good time for hiking. The Lycian Way is one of Turkey’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, offering stunning views and the chance to explore ancient ruins.

Xanthos: This ancient city, which was once the capital of Lycia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is less crowded during winter.

Shopping in Local Markets: Kalkan’s local markets usually remain open throughout the winter months, where you can find fresh produce, textiles, and local handicrafts.

Day Trips to Fethiye or Kas: Both towns are bigger than Kalkan and offer more indoor attractions like museums and historic hammams (Turkish baths).

In summer, Kalkan truly comes to life with an array of activities and attractions to explore. Here are some of the top things to do and places to visit in Kalkan during the summer:

Patara Beach: This beach is one of the longest sandy beaches in Turkey and is just a short distance from Kalkan. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or even trying out some watersports.

Kaputas Beach: This stunning beach is located in a cove and is famous for its turquoise waters. It’s a must-visit for any beach lover.

Boat Tours: There are many boats available for day trips from Kalkan. These trips usually include meals, stops at several beautiful coves for swimming, and sometimes a visit to nearby islands.

Saklikent Gorge: A refreshing change from the beach, this deep, narrow gorge is one of the deepest in the world. The river running through it provides a nice cooling-off spot.

Visit Ancient Ruins: Explore the ancient cities of Xanthos and Letoon, both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Explore the Old Town: Kalkan’s old town is full of charm and character. Wander through its cobbled streets, check out the boutiques, enjoy a meal at a rooftop restaurant, and take in the stunning views of the harbor.

Water Sports: Try out jet-skiing, paddleboarding, or sea kayaking on Kalkan’s clear waters.

Dining: Kalkan is known for its high-quality restaurants. Enjoy a meal on a rooftop restaurant overlooking the sea.

Diving: With clear, warm waters, the coast around Kalkan offers excellent diving opportunities. There are several diving schools in the area if you’re a beginner.

Kalkan, being located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, has a rich culinary culture heavily influenced by both the sea and the fertile lands of the region. Here are some traditional foods you should try when in Kalkan:

Seafood: Given Kalkan’s coastal location, seafood is a staple in the local cuisine. Grilled fish, calamari, shrimp, and octopus are commonly found on restaurant menus.

Meze: These are small dishes served as appetizers and can be either cold or hot. Popular meze dishes include hummus, baba ghanoush, tzatziki, and stuffed vine leaves (dolma).

Kebabs: Turkey is famous for its kebabs, and Kalkan is no exception. There are various types of kebabs, but popular ones include the doner kebab (sliced meat served on bread) and the shish kebab (grilled cubes of meat served on skewers).

Pide: Often referred to as Turkish pizza, pide is a boat-shaped flatbread topped with various ingredients like cheese, meats, and vegetables.

Lahmacun: This is a thin, round piece of dough topped with minced meat (most commonly beef or lamb), vegetables, herbs, and spices, then baked.

Borek: These are pastries made from a thin flaky dough known as phyllo, and filled with ingredients like cheese, spinach, or minced meat.

Gozleme: A traditional savory Turkish flatbread, filled with various fillings like spinach, cheese, and minced meat, then cooked over a griddle.

Baklava: For dessert, you can’t go wrong with baklava – a sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey.

Korsan Fish Terrace: This rooftop restaurant offers an extensive seafood menu with beautiful views over the harbor.

Aubergine’s: It’s situated in a lovely location on the harbor. It offers a wide range of dishes from Turkish to international cuisines.

Trio: This popular place serves a variety of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes. It’s also known for its cocktail menu and stunning views.

The Olive Garden: Located in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant offers a menu full of traditional Turkish dishes.

Doy Doy Restaurant: Known for its authentic Turkish cuisine and friendly service, Doy Doy offers a more casual dining experience.

Sade Restaurant: It provides a fine dining experience with a selection of Turkish and international dishes.

Gourmet: It’s a family-run restaurant offering a combination of British and Turkish cuisine. It’s particularly known for its seafood and steaks.

Kalamaki: This place is not only a restaurant but also a bakery and a cocktail bar. It offers a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Mediterranean dishes.

Kleo Cafe and Bar: Known for its breakfast and brunch, this cafe is a must-visit for a relaxed morning in Kalkan.

The Brothers Café & Restaurant: A popular place for a hearty meal, with a diverse menu covering everything from Turkish classics to international favorites.

Kalkan, like many places in Turkey, has a wonderful range of local products that make great gifts. Here are a few suggestions:

Turkish Ceramics and Pottery: Kalkan and other parts of Turkey are known for their beautiful ceramic pieces. These range from plates and bowls to more decorative items like vases. The intricate designs and bright colors make them a popular gift.

Olive Oil Products: Turkey is one of the largest producers of olives and olive oil in the world. You can find high-quality olive oil, as well as other olive-based products like soaps and creams in Kalkan.

Turkish Textiles: Turkey has a rich history of textile production, and Kalkan has several shops where you can buy beautiful Turkish towels (also known as “pestemal”), rugs, and throws. The towels are particularly popular because they are lightweight, quick to dry, and versatile.

Turkish Spices and Teas: Turkey is famous for its variety of teas and spices. Apple tea is a popular choice, as are the many types of spice blends used in Turkish cuisine.

Turkish Delight (Lokum): This is a sweet treat that Turkey is famous for. There are many different flavors to choose from, and they’re usually beautifully packaged.

Handcrafted Jewelry: You can find a wide range of jewelry in Kalkan, from more traditional designs to modern pieces.

Turkish Lamps: These lamps, often made from colored glass and ornate metal, make for beautiful souvenirs and gifts.