PAMUKKALE

Pamukkale - ( Pamukkale, Pamukkale Place, turkey Pamukkale, Pamukkale Information, Pamukkale History )

Pamukkale Information The stunning white terraces of Pamukkale and the neighbouring site of Hierapolis are situated inland, close to the town of Denizli. They can be reached from most of the coastal resorts on a one or two day trip but Kuşadası is the closest - approximately 4 hours drive away.
Pamukkale literally means 'cotton castle' and is one of Turkey's most impressive natural wonders. It is made up of a series of white travertine terraces cascading down a cliff, which is almost 200 metres high. The hard, white mineral deposits, which from a distance resemble snow, are caused by the high mineral content of the natural spring water which runs down the cliff and congregates in warm pools on the terraces. This is such a popular tourist attraction that strict rules had to be established in order to preserve its beauty, which include the fact that visitors may no longer walk on the terraces. Those who want to enjoy the thermal waters, however, can take a dip in the nearby pool, littered with fragments of marble pillars.
It was the thermal waters which lead to the founding of the spa town of Hierapolis at the end of the 2nd century BC by the dynasty of the Attalids, the kings of Pergamon. The remains include the ancient ruins of the baths, temples, the well-preserved theatre, and the largest necropolis or graveyard in Anatolia containing over 1200 tombs. It is easy to book an excursion from any of the major beach resorts to visit Pamukkale, and this is sometimes combined with a visit to Ephesus.
Address: Pamukkale Denizli  / TURKEY

MARMARİS

Marmaris - ( Marmaris, Marmaris Place, turkey Marmaris, Marmaris Information, Marmaris History )
Marmaris Information: Marmaris is one of Turkey's most popular resorts, which attracts lots of British holidaymakers, many of whom return year after year. It is a favourite with families and young couples alike. It is in a stunning setting, its geography remarkably similar to that of the fjords, with pine-clad hills dropping steeply to the sea, jagged inlets and tiny rocky islets off the coast.
There is a wide choice of accommodation, from five star luxury to self-catering apartments, but the vast majority is of three star standard. Most of the accommodation is built on either side of the main seafront road, some is on the seafront itself, but many of the newer hotels are on the hillside in areas such as Armutalan.
There are many water sports centres in Marmaris or at the coves, ready to assist you in surface or underwater sports adventures - including extreme sports. Akvaryum (Aquarium) Cove, Baca (Chimney) Sea Cave and reef area are the fascinating diving spots for domestic and foreign visitors. Nature and adventure sports such as rafting on Dalaman Stream, and trekking tours are organised by travel agencies. Jeep Safari is yet another alternative.
Some of the sites of ancient cities in the environs of Marmaris are as follows: Amos (Hisaronii-Turung), Bybassos (Hisaronii), Kastabos (Hisaronu), Syma (Bayir Village), Larymna (Bozburun), Thyssanos (Sogiit), Phoinix (Tashca), Loryma (Bozukkale), Kasara (Serge Harbour), Cedrai (Sedir Island), Euthena and Amnistos.(Karacasogut).
Icmeler Içmeler is a popular resort with families. It is much greener than neighbouring Marmaris, with wide streets lined with threes and a relaxed ambiance. It nestles in the shelter of dramatic pine-clad mountains with a wide sweeping bay of coarse sand, where all kinds of water sports are available. The waters are shallow and calm making it relatively safe for children. There is an abundance of restaurants, serving a full range of Turkish and international cuisine, plenty of lively bars and lots of shops. For those who want serious nightlife, Marmaris is just a short dolmuş or taxi ride away.
Turunc Turunç is reached by a steep, winding road, which snakes around the mountains from Içmeler, a sleepy resort, full of character. The accommodation here is mainly small family-run hotels, with some good self-catering properties. The main street has a good selection of restaurants with a few music bars, and enough shops to cater for your immediate holiday requirements.
Bozburun Bozburun has a stunning setting and is also famous for pine, flower and thyme honey. Its isolated location and peaceful atmosphere has attracted people escaping city life, and is especially popular with Turkish tourists. There are buses from Marmaris, 50km away, which makes a pleasant day trip, and there are many interesting walks in the surrounding countryside.
Address: Mugla Marmaris / TURKEY

KUSADASI

Kusadasi - ( Kusadasi, Kusadasi Place, turkey Kusadasi, Kusadasi Information, Kusadasi History )

Kusadası Information Kuşadası is one of Turkey's largest and most cosmopolitan resorts and a stopping off point for the big cruise-liners. It is a good all round resort, offering great beaches, excellent shopping and some serious nightlife. Kuşadası literally means 'Bird Island' and takes its name from the tiny islet known as Güvercin Adası or Pigeon Island, which is attached to the mainland by a causeway and boasts a 14th century Genoese fort. There are a number of sandy beaches in the area. Kadınlar Plajı or 'Ladies Beach' is central but can get crowded so it is wiser in high season to head a little further out of the centre where the beaches are just as sandy but offer more space. Kaleiçi is the old centre of the town and is a popular shopping and entertainment area. The Ottoman Kervansaray or traveler's inn is now in private hands but is an impressive building and a landmark in the town centre. Today's travelers can find comfort in a full range of accommodation in all categories and of all sizes.
Kuşadası's setting also makes it a good base for those wanting to visit Ephesus which is only approximately 30 minutes' drive away.
It is also surrounded by some of Turkey's most beautiful national park including the Kalamaki National Park, which lies on the Dilek Peninsula, approx. 30 kms to the south. Dense pine trees cover the mountains which plunge dramatically down to beaches and crystal-clear sea. Some of Turkey's rarest wild animals can be found here including the Anatolian cheetah and wild horses. Sundays are often busy with local visitors. Another stunning spot in the vicinity is Lake Bafa which is approx, 80 kms south east of Kuşadası.
Address: Kusadası / TURKEY