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Dalyan
The Dalyan peninsula area in Turkey is a wonderful peninsula traversed by the Dalyan river. On one side, the river houses a small village near to an ancient site of ruins, Caunos, which today is a wonderful holiday secret for those wanting to experience unspoilt Turkish nature in a romantic setting.
The riverside village of Dalyan offers many diversions to illustrate the ancient roots of the Turks, including impressive Lycian rock tombs carved onto the face of the cliff.
The peninsula’s area begins at Dalyan Harbour through bulrushes and grass, and can be circled on the fleet of gaily painted boats down the rivers. The entire delta is a famous protected national conservation area, serving as home to hundreds of species of birds, as well as the rare loggerhead turtle who lay their eggs in the sandy beach.
The heart of the village centers not only on ease and calm but also on the fresh seafood and fish that is daily table fare on the many fish restaurants line the quay. In the evenings, the waterside cafes come alive with music and friendly locals with hearty Turkish food.
A full boat tour starts at the hot springs near Koycegiz Lake, and then follows a meandering course down the river through the thick reeds and bamboos towards Caunos.
Wooden boats ferry visitors to mouth of the river delta, towards Iztuzu Beach, also known as "Turtle Beach" for the loggerhead turtles that lay their eggs on its shores as its famous breeding ground for conservation.
