Once a small fishing village, enigmatic Bodrum is a thriving destination offering beautiful beaches and chi-chi beach clubs, a sophisticated and authentic array of bars and restaurants together with a fascinating historical and cultural scene; including a 15th Century castle and architecturally interesting buildings.
The rugged Bodrum Peninsula affords a magnificent position surveying the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Once a thriving and only local fishing community, Bodrum has been transformed and is today, one of Turkey’s principal tourist destinations which is not surprising given the rich culture, glistening sea, boasting a magnitude of shades of turquoise, as well as an alluring social scene. Unsurprisingly, this location doesn’t just attract international globe- trotters but domestic visitors have relocated in abundance, including musicians, doctors, artists, writers and intellectuals. This melting- pot of people, residents and visitors, as well as elegance, culture, architecture and history combine to provide a refreshing ambience, unique to Turkey’s Bodrum region.
The geography is vast and varied with different areas attracting different clienteles. Accommodation types range from pansiyon-style guest houses with Greek roots, to authentic boutique hotels and exclusive resorts drawing celebrities who relish the best of the best. Bodrum town has an enormous array of facilities including the marina, shopping malls and old harbour. There are an array of restaurants and services that appeal to those seeking authenticity and tradition ,with meyhane style restaurants offering meze and raki style dining as well of course as some of the finest names in Turkish a’la carte dining. Beyond the centre, Gumusluk is worthy of expedition, this idyllic postcard village offers an entirely different ambience. There is a sprinkling of fish restaurants, all white washed and dressed with wonderful artefacts and Turkish decorations- this is possibly our favourite place for a seaside-supper. Yalikavak located on the North west of the peninsula is unquestionably the place to mingle with the stars. Once a cosy fishing village, today it is a popular location amongst the well-to-do Turks many of whom have summer houses in this area. An excellent choice of beach clubs, restaurants and hotels pepper the shoreline.
Enthusiastic explorers will be thrilled with the enormity of activities on offer. An absolute favourite and one that guests most frequently comment on is Bodrum Castle (which should absolutely be on your holiday bucket list). The castle is a tentative nominee for UNESCO accreditation, the dramatic coastal location makes it one of the most photographed sites in Turkey.
Bodrum has arguably the most famous marina in the whole of Turkey and consequently is a focal point for the yachting and sailing fraternity. Alongside the well-known flotilla moorings are some impressive mega-yachts owned by some of the world’s richest oligarchs. For those who wish to enjoy the stunning seascapes, you can set sail on a day’s charter which will allow you to meander between remote coves and scenic islets with plenty of stops for snorkelling and swimming,
Back on land, culture seekers should definitely visit Ephesus- the most famous and well-preserved of Turkey’s archaeological sites and while in the region, we recommend visiting nearby Sirince. This chocolate box village is celebrated for its fruit wines, gnarled Aegean olive groves, blooming fig trees and abundant vineyards. Closer to base, it is also possible to take a trip inland to remote rural villages where agriculture is still the main source of income and life has remained unchanged for centuries- if you can, try and visit on days when the large open-air fresh markets are a hive of activity. For a spot of pampering, a visit to a Turkish Hammam is a must do experience. And if you really feel like doing nothing more than loafing and lounging, it doesn’t get better than strolling along the water’s edge, immersing yourself in the local scene and taking in the awe-inspiring Bodrum sunsets.
