|
The
Gulf of Fethiye is thought by many sailors to be second only to the
Indian Ocean in terms of the beautiful seascapes it offers. Until a
few years ago the only land based option for those wanting to enjoy
this magical corner of the world was the characterful, but hardly
tranquil, town of Fethiye. However, in recent years a small amount
of accommodation has become available in the pretty village of
Gocek. Set at the
deepest point of the gulf of Fethiye, Gocek nestles at the foot of
the pine clad mountains looking out over the '12 islands' of the
bay.
With
a large natural harbour Gocek has grown up to cater to the needs of
yachtsmen. One of the pleasures of a visit here is a stroll around
the Marina to admire the array of boats of all shapes and sizes
moored here. The waterfront is lined with bars and restaurants.
Inland life revolves around the pretty market square which is lined
with little shops selling antiques and crafts as well as the more
usual carpets.In the daytime it is possible to swim from the small
town beach, but you will probably prefer to take a trip to one of
the beaches in the local nature reserves or a boat to one of the
lovely islands in the bay. Thought this area is called the 12
islands there are, in fact, far more than that and you could easily
explore a different one each day of your holiday. On some you will
find a simple restaurant, on others fragments of classical
or Byzantine ruins, on others nothing but glorious peace and quiet.
If you are tired of exploring
the immediate area Gocek is well sited for other parts of the coast.
The bustling port of Fethiye, or the pretty town of Dalyan with its
mud baths and the Carian city of Caunos can both be reached in under
an hour. A little further afield you could visit the ancient sites
of Letoon, Patara and Xanthos, or the spectacular gorge at
Saklikent. An overnight trip to Ephesus and Pamukkale is also
possible.
|