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If you have done the things to do in Turkey, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Elmali.
Nestled amongst the verdant hills of Antalya, Elmali is a jewel awaiting discovery, a treasure trove of hidden gems nestled within winding streets and quaint alleyways.
Explore the ancient ruins, savor the local cuisine, and soak in the rich heritage and culture of this tranquil town.
With so much to see and do, let Elmali be your sanctuary, your respite from the daily grind of modern life.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Elmali:
1. Sican Island
Sican Island is a small island located in the middle of Elmali Lake in Turkey.
What to see or do: Sican Island offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
You can take a walk around the island and see the ruins of ancient buildings that date back to the Ottoman Empire.
You can also rent a boat and explore Elmali Lake and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a peaceful walk around the island’s forest and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Take a dip in the clear waters of Elmali Lake and recharge your batteries.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Sican Island is during spring or summer when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.
Bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no shops or restaurants on the island. If you plan to stay overnight, bring a tent and camping gear as there are no accommodations on the island.
2. Alara Han Castle
Alara Han Castle is a well-preserved castle built in the 13th century, located in Elmali, a district of Antalya.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s three floors and admire its intricate architectural features, including its beautiful arched doorways and elaborate decorative carvings.
Stroll along the castle walls for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the castle’s museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the region.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes as the castle has many stairs and uneven surfaces. Also, plan to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.
3. Kuyucak Village
A remote village located in the Taurus Mountains of southwestern Turkey.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the village and admire the stone houses and beautiful gardens. Visit the traditional Turkish bazaar where locals sell handmade crafts, carpets, and delicious local cuisine.
Go hiking in the nearby mountains and explore the stunning natural scenery.
Don’t miss: The ancient Lycian settlement of Stratonikeia, located just a short drive away from the village. Take a trip to the nearby Kursunlu Waterfall, which is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes.
Insider travel tips: Pack comfortable shoes for hiking and be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Make sure to try the local goat cheese, which is a specialty of the region.
Stay in a traditional guesthouse to get a taste of authentic village life.
4. Elmali Castle
Elmali Castle is a historical fortress located in the Antalya province of Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Mediterranean Sea.
The castle walls and towers still stand tall and visitors can climb the stairs to the top for even better views.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the underground cistern which was used for storing water. The views from the top of the castle are not to be missed, especially during sunset.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable shoes as the castle grounds can be quite uneven. Also, remember to bring sunscreen and a hat in the summer months as there is little shade.
Additionally, plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds and heat.
5. Kizilalan Plateau
Picturesque high altitude plateau in Elmali, Antalya.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the mountainous region, go hiking or camping, see traditional villages, and take pictures of the picturesque landscape.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the Taurus mountain range from the plateau, and the traditional village of Kuzdere.
Insider travel tips: Bring warm clothing as the temperature can drop significantly during the night. Make sure to stop by local cafes and sample traditional Turkish tea and pastries.
Additionally, visiting the plateau during the summer months will offer a more vibrant and lush experience.
6. Tlos Ancient City
Tlos Ancient City is an archeological site located near the town of Elmali in Turkey.
What to see or do: Explore the ancient ruins of Tlos and discover the unique blend of Greek, Lycian, and Roman influences present in the architecture.
Admire the well-preserved Roman theater, the ancient agora, and the acropolis of the former city.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Lycian rock tombs that are carved high up on cliffs, showcasing the ancient Lycian burial practices.
Another must-see attraction is the Baba Mountain, which offers stunning views of the Tlos ruins and the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven terrain. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
Also, bring plenty of water and sunscreen as there is little shade available in the area. At the end of the visit, head to the nearby town of Elmali to indulge in traditional Turkish cuisine.
7. Saklikent National Park
A stunning national park located in Elmali, Turkey, known for its canyons and turquoise water.
What to see or do: Take a walk through the breathtaking Saklikent Canyon, which stretches 18 km and is the second longest canyon in Europe.
You can also go rafting, tubing, or canoeing in the nearby Esen River, or enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the park.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try traditional Turkish cuisine, such as gozleme (a savory pastry made with dough and various fillings), while enjoying the stunning views of Saklikent.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, as you’ll be walking through water during your visit to the canyon.
It’s also best to plan your visit in the summer months to fully enjoy all the outdoor activities the park has to offer.
Additionally, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds that tend to come on the weekends.
8. Goynuk Canyon
Goynuk Canyon is a natural wonder located in Elmali, Antalya, Turkey.
What to see or do: The canyon offers visitors the opportunity to hike through lush green forests, swim in crystal clear waterfalls, and explore narrow passages and caves.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the canyon is the 20-meter high Goynuk Waterfall, which cascades down rugged rock formations into a natural pool perfect for swimming.
Insider travel tips: Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as the hiking trail can be challenging.
Additionally, it is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the canyon before it gets too busy.
9. Phaselis Ancient City
Phaselis is an ancient city ruins located in the Kemer district of Antalya, Turkey. Founded in the 7th century BC, it served as a thriving port city for several civilizations.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city including the Agora (marketplace), theater, stadium, and three distinct harbors. The city’s aqueduct system is also worth seeing.
Don’t miss: A walk through the ruins of the Amphitheater and its stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and intense heat during the summer months.
10. Olympos Beach
Olympos Beach is a stunning stretch of shoreline located near the town of Elmali in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can indulge in a range of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun on the sandy beach.
There are also walking and hiking opportunities in the surrounding mountains, with breathtaking views of the coastline from the trails.
Don’t miss: The ancient city of Olympos, located nearby, is a must-see.
It’s one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey and boasts fascinating ruins, such as a Roman theater and tombs carved into the rock.
Insider travel tips: Consider staying overnight in one of the treehouses in the forest just behind the beach. The treehouses are equipped with cozy beds and offer an unforgettable experience of sleeping among nature’s beauty.
Also, keep in mind that Olympos Beach is a popular spot, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach.
11. Adrasan Beach
Adrasan Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located in the town of Adrasan in Elmali, Antalya. The beach stretches over 2km and offers crystal clear waters and stunning views of the Taurus Mountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming in the calm waters of the beach or take a relaxing walk along the promenade. The area is also known for its hiking trails, which provide stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Adrasan Beach is also home to a number of beach bars and restaurants, serving delicious Turkish cuisine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat tour of the coastline and explore the numerous hidden coves and bays. Also, make sure to catch the sunset over the Taurus Mountains, which offers a breathtaking view.
Insider travel tips: For a quieter and more serene experience, visit Adrasan Beach during the week rather than on the weekends.
If you plan on taking a boat tour, be sure to negotiate the price beforehand to ensure that you are getting a fair deal.
12. Ucansu Waterfall
Ucansu Waterfall is a natural wonder located in Elmali, a small town on the eastern side of the Taurus Mountains in Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors to Ucansu Waterfall can enjoy a scenic hike through the lush forest trail leading up to the falls. The area is full of beautiful plants, trees and wildlife, making it perfect for a peaceful nature walk.
Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with an impressive sight of a 50-meter high cascade of water crashing into the basin below.
Don’t miss: Make sure you bring your swimwear because a refreshing dip in the cool pool below the waterfall is a must-do activity.
There is also a small bridge in front of the falls, which offers a great spot for taking pictures.
Insider travel tips: – The waterfall is easily accessible by car or minibus from the town of Elmali.
13. Demre Church of St Nicholas
Demre Church of St Nicholas is an ancient church located in the town of Demre, in the Antalya Province of Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the well-preserved architecture of the church, which dates back to the 4th century AD and is a blend of Byzantine and Romanesque styles.
The church is also the burial site of Saint Nicholas, who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.
Don’t miss: The stunning mosaic floors of the church are a must-see, featuring intricate designs and vibrant colors that have stood the test of time.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos. Wear comfortable shoes as the floors can be slippery.
Take time to explore the nearby ancient ruins and enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in one of the local restaurants.
14. Myra Ancient City
Myra Ancient City is a historic site located in Elmali, Turkey.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the city, including the amphitheater, rock tombs and the impressive St. Nicholas Church.
Don’t miss: The rock tombs with their intricate carvings and the St.
Nicholas Church, which is believed to be the final resting place of the saint who inspired the legend of Santa Claus.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit the site early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and bring a hat and sunscreen. Be prepared for a steep climb to the rock tombs and church.
15. Kemer Marina
Kemer Marina is a modern marina located in the coastal town of Kemer, Turkey, providing temporary or permanent berthing facilities for yachts and boats.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the views of the marina and the imposing Taurus Mountains or stroll along the promenade to discover the charming town of Kemer.
Water sports enthusiasts can participate in activities such as diving, jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. The marina also offers boat rental services or guided sailing tours to nearby picturesque bays and coves.
Don’t miss: The marina offers several dining options and bars, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing meal or refreshing drink while watching the boats go by or the sunsets over the Mediterranean Sea.
Also, exploring the nearby ancient ruins of Phaselis or Olympos is a must for history buffs.
Insider travel tips: The marina can get crowded during the summer season, so it is advised to book in advance. Kemer also gets quite hot in the summer, so it is recommended to visit during the cooler months.
Finally, haggling is a common practice in the local markets, so visitors should not be afraid to negotiate prices.