DISCOVERTURKEY relaxation
34|discoverTURKEY
Everyonehasadifferent conceptofrelaxation -soakinginawarm spa,aroundofgolf,an exhilaratingridethrough white-waterrapids... Whetheryoufavourskiing orscubadiving,whether youwanttofollowin thestepsofSt.Paulor paraglidefromahigh mountain,Turkeyhasthe holidaytosuityou.Itis rareifnotuniquetofind acountrywhichcanoffer somuch–welcometo relaxation,Turkishstyle...
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
factfile
wheretostay
relaxation
history&culture
36|discoverTURKEY
sailingandcruising liebackandwatchthe beautifulscenery,stopping offasthefancytakesyou
T
urkey is surrounded by sea to threesides,andhas acoastlineof over8000 kilometres in length. One of the best ways to see Turkey is from the deck of a boat, where you can lie back and watch the beautiful scenery, stopping off as the fancy takes you to explore a historic site or visit a charming village. Turkey has a wealth of world class marinas, providing excellent facilities for those who have their own yacht or who have chartered one. The large cruise liners usually only stop off at İstanbul and Kuşadası. both large ports which are perfectly situated for access to some of Turkey’s most interesting historic sites.
Gulets can be fully chartered by a group or are sold on a cabin basis by tour operators. They are usually comfortable and can be extremely luxurious but standards do vary hugely, so if you are comparing prices you should check exactly what you are getting for your money. Cabins can be on the small side with little storage space so it is wise not to pack too much – in any case, you probably won’t be wearing much more than swimwear during
Turkey is perhaps best known for the Mavi Yolculuk or ‘Blue Cruise’, the coastal voyage on board a traditional Turkish wooden boat known as a gulet (goo-let). It all started in Bodrum with Cevat Sakir Kabaağac, who wrote a book in the middle of the last century called Mavi Yolculuk in which he described his ‘blue cruise’ sailing around the coast of Bodrum with the local sponge fishermen. He became known as the ‘Fisherman of Halikarnas’ and inspired many others to seek the pleasures which he described. Over the years, gulets have evolved from traditional fishing and cargo vessels into their present profile with a broad beam and wide deck. They usually have a large sunbathing deck to the fore, a sitting/ dining area at the back, and cabins below. Constructed mainly in local shipyards in and around Bodrum, Bozburun, Marmaris, Fethiye, and İstanbul, and along the Black Sea Coast, the boats are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. The number of passengers a gulet carries depends on the boat’s size, although most of them accommodate between eight and twelve people in double or twin cabins.
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
days at sea. Usually, there are three or four crew members on board, including the captain and the cook, and the atmosphere is one of relaxed communal living. Gulets usually travel a specified route, starting from resorts along the South Aegean and Mediterranean. Turkey is full of isolated bays, inlets and tiny islands, some of which can only be explored from the sea so it is a great way to see the best of the coast and get away from the crowds. Those who don’t like the idea of a whole week at sea, can take a day trip from most resorts. Either book through your operator or a local agency or simply go along to the harbour first thing in the morning.
Someofthehighlights ofthe coastfromBodrumto Antalya: Bodrum is the place where it all started, a buzzing, bohemian resort whose Karada Marina is one of the best-equipped in the region and the starting point for a trip around the stunning Gulf of Gökova. Akbük is hidden behind a forested promontory, it is splendidly scenic and a great place to stop for its charming restaurants and snorkelling in the clear waters. Datça is a charming village with the famous ruins of the ancient city of Knidos nearby. Orhaniye is a picturesque hamlet, surrounded by pine trees, where you can see the shallow bar of sand known as Kızkumu which runs across the cove and makes it look as if people are walking on water. SedirIsland, known in English as Cleopatra’s Island (ancient Cedrai) boasts an incredible beach with fine sand composed of fossils, and a splendid view of the Kiran Mountains across the bay. It is said that the sand here was imported by Mark Antony for his lover, Cleopatra and that she bathed here. Marmaris’ Netsel Marina is one of the largest and best-equipped marinas in Turkey, and the Marmaris Albatross Marina, one of the best for wintering and maintaining yachts, which make this cosmopolitan resort an excellent starting point for a Blue Voyage. At Ekincik, a delightful yacht-mooring, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this area and the friendly hospitality of its people. From DelikliIsland, which lies right off the coast, southeast of Ekincik you can take an excursion to Dalyan on a smaller boat. Göcek is a charming resort, favoured by yachtsmen, with some lovely seafront restaurants. Dotted with islands and indented with many coves, the land and seascapes of the Gulf of Göcek are irresistible. On Tersane Island stand Byzantine ruins including those of the ancient shipyards from which it takes it name. Fethiye, a traditional market town boasts a natural harbour and beautiful mountain scenery. Kekova is the name of a group of picturesque islands with
history&culture relaxation factfile
wheretostay
numerous bays and ancient cities. Along the northern shore of Kekova Island, at Apollonia, earthquakes once disturbed the land causing some of the ancient houses to sink under the clear water, creating the sunken city which is so enchanting today. Kaleköy Castle (ancient Simena) offers a bird’s-eye view of the bay’s inlets, islands and colourful yachts sailing peacefully on the glassy water. At Demre (Kale), the ancient Myra (25 kms west of Finike), many splendid carved Lycian rock tombs overlook the magnificent Roman theatre. St Nicholas, the real Father Christmas, was the Bishop of this Mediterranean city during the fourth century. Olympos, on the southern side of Mount Tahtalı (Mt. Olympos), is surrounded by oleander and laurel bushes. Nearby, high on the hillside at Yanartaş (literally ‘burning stone’), the mythological Lycian hero Bellerophon mounted his winged horse Pegasus and slew the fire-breathing Chimaera. Kemer, a resort town carefully designed to blend in with the surrounding scenery, where the fully equipped Park Kemer Marina has good facilities. April is the month of the colourful Kemer Carnival. Also in the spring there are yacht races between Kemer and Girne (Kyrenia), in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Antalya, Turkey’s largest Mediterranean city has a backdrop of the towering Taurus Mountains. Here the ancient city of Attaleia, named after King Attalus II of Pergamum, was founded in the 2nd century BC. Today, palm-lined boulevards, beautiful parks, historical buildings, monuments, museums and the picturesque old quarter of Kaleiçi (with the Kaleiçi Turban Marina) blend together to create a perfect holiday atmosphere.
4a traditional Turkish sailing boat, or gulet.
copyrighted image kindly supplied by Savile Tours
38|discoverTURKEY
trekkingandclimbing getawayfromthecrowdsand discoverthetruebeautyofTurkey
T
urkey is a mountainous countr y with beautiful scenery and large areas of unspoiled countryside, which are wonderful natural preserves for an extraordinary variety of wildlife, floraand fauna. The mountainous nature of the country has had a strong influence on its cultural evolution. For centuries, nomads and semi-nomadic peoples have lived here and migrated annually with their livestock to the fresh pastures of the mountains and hills around. These alpine meadows, or yayla, still represent a firm tie to traditional culture. Trekking allows you to get away from the crowds and discover the true beauty of Turkey – the friendly villagers, remote historic sites and stunning scenery. Serious climbers will probably want to explore Turkey’s rich interior and mountainous east but even by walking a short distance inland from some of the busiest coastal resorts, it can feel as if you are in a different world. Turkey now has two official long distance footpaths, the Lycian Way, which was recently listed by the Sunday Times as one of the world’s top ten walks, and the newer St. Paul Trail.
LycianWay The Lycian way is a 509 km way-marked footpath around the coast from Fethiye to Antalya. It takes its name from the ancient civilisation which once ruled the area, the most visible reminders of which are the carved rock tombs which can be seen throughout the region. This section of the coastline is stunning with wooded mountains rising steeply from the shore affording fantastic views and making for varied walking conditions. The route also goes past many of the more remote historic sites. The route is graded medium to hard; it is not level walking, but has many discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
ascents and descents as it approaches and veers away from the sea. It is easier at the start near Fethiye and gets more difficult as it progresses. It is recommended that you walk the route in spring or autumn; February-May or September-November. Summer in Lycia is hot, although you could walk short, shady sections. The route is mainly over footpaths and mule trails; it is mostly over limestone and often hard and stony underfoot. Highlights oftheLycianWayare: • • • • • • • • • •
Spectacular walks on theslopes ofBaba Dağı,beneaththeflight pathofthe paraglidersdescendingtoÖlüdeniz Stunningdescent toFaralya,abovethe cliffs ofButterflyValley. The22km longbeachatPatara. Spectacular views over thecoastfrom aboveKaşandKalkan. Thecastle,harbourandsunken ruinsat Üçağız ThechurchoftheAngelGabriel in the hillsaboveMyra. Afabulous ridgetop walk toFinike. Stayingat thelighthouseat Cape Gelidonia. ClimbingMountOlympos - 2388m. Splashingin thecanyonatGöynük.
StPaulTrail The St Paul Trail is a newer, way-marked footpath leading from Perge, 10 km east of Antalya, to Yalvaç, NE of Lake Eğirdir. There is a second branch starting at Aspendos, 40km east of Antalya and joining the first route at the Roman site of Adada. The route totals about 500km. This project partly follows the route walked by St Paul on his first missionary journey in Asia Minor.It starts at sea level and climbs up to 2200m, with two optional peaks at around 2800m. Although the St. Paul Trail is slightly wilder than the Lycian Way, it is also higher and cooler in summer. The trip has varied and enjoyable walking days, some of which take you to ridge and peak tops, while others pass through forests, fields and ancient
villages. The town of Sütcüler, around which you will spend two days in the first part of our walk, was an important administrative centre during Ottoman times. There is an old mosque from that period in the town centre and ruins from the Roman times on a nearby hill. Ancient pilgrimage routes ran through the adjacent gorges, and the area was known as Bavul, after St Paul. The second part of the walk takes you over the shoulder of Mt Davras (2635m), and across the İsparta plain for two days trekking in the Barla mountains with an optional climb of Gelincik Dağı (2799m) and Mt. Kaymaz (2250m). Stay in Barla before moving on to the lakeside town of Eğirdir for an ascent of Sivri Dağı, with time to take a Turkish bath or swim in the lake. Highlights oftheSt.PaulTrailare: •
TheAksu rivercrossingandthe waterfallsatUcansu • Thehugepinesandfirs on theroute aboveOren. • Theviewsfrom therouteabovethe Candircanyon • TheRoman roadat Adada • Stayingon theislandinLakeEğirdir& crossingthelakebyfishingboat • Themedieval pavedroadaroundSarp peak • Thebeautiful villageofBeydili • FollowingaRomanaqueduct intoYalvaç Forfurther information on thesewalks:visit www.lycianway.com
Climbing&mountaineering Serious climbers will no doubt wish to discover Turkey’s most challenging peaks, the best known of which is Mount Ararat or Ağrı Dağı, which is the country’s highest peak. It is said to have been the place where Noah’s Ark came to land after the floods, and is an extinct volcano, capped with snow and ice throughout the year. The summit of Ararat was first climbed by Dr Parrot, a German, in 1829 and has been popular with international climbers ever since. The best time of year to
4 (top) theancient ruinedcityofPerge, near thestartoftheStPaultrail.
4 campinginthemidstofTurkey’s beautifulmountainscenery
relaxation
history&culture Forfurtherinformationonclimbingin Turkey,visit www.mountainsofturkey.com
wheretostay
Other mountains which are popular for trekking and climbing include the Kaçkar Mountains, or Pontic Alps, which run parallel to the Black Sea in the north west of the country. The scenery is stunning and the area offers an insight into a more traditional way of life where the local people spend the winters in the cities and the summers in the mountain pastures or yayla with their animals. The main season is in the summer months from July – September. The Aladağlar, or ‘Red Mountains’, form part of the Taurus mountain chain, running from west to east along the Mediterranean coast. Most climbers are attracted to the peaks known as the Beyaz or white Aladağlar. The main season is in June and July when the mountains are a beautiful lush green with lakes and stunning waterfalls.
factfile
climb is in the summer – with July, August and September being the most pleasant months. The ascent is non-technical although it does include some rough terrain. The southern face of the mountain offers the easiest and safest ascent to the summit, as it has the best routes as well as having safer communication and transportation systems. It is not advised to climb Mount Ağrı (Ararat) alone and without a guide. You will, in any case, need official permission for the climb. Mount Ararat is approx. 270 kms from Erzurum.
40|discoverTURKEY
golf worldclasscourses,anexcellent climateandfantasticservice
T
clubs are available for hire. Both individual and group lessons with PGA professionals are also available.
Handicap certificates must be produced, with a maximum of 28 for men and 36 for women, and soft spikes must be worn.
The Gloria Golf Club has 45 holes in play all designed by French golf architect, Michel Gayon, situated amidst pine forests at the foot of the Taurus Mountains. The Gloria Old is considered a Gayon classic, with deep bunkers, and no less than seven lakes, providing a challenge at all levels. The Gloria Old was host to the PGA European Turkish Senior Open in 1998, 2000 & 2001. It is 6288 metres, par 72. The 9 hole Gloria Verde golf course is set around a large lake, in the midst of pine forest. It is par 36 and can be played from two different tee positions and is 3148 metres from the white tees. The Gloria New is a tree-lined parkland styled course with a hint of seaside thanks to its undulations. It measures 6280 metres, par 72 and opens on the 1st November 2005. The New Club House which opened in October 2005 was specially designed for the Gloria Golf Resort, with comfortable restaurant, bar, golfers’lounge and large pro-shop & locker room. The fully stocked Pro Shop will have PGA professionals on site. The Driving Range has 2 floors West - South with 48 bays plus 30 Bays with grass tees plus a large putting green, pitching green and practice Bunker. Also there are 72 Club Car, 2 person buggies and 18 sets of Callaway golf clubs to hire.
urkey is now well established as a golf destination. The excellent climate is an attraction, with the added benefits of high standards of service and accommodation, good value for money, and, of course, a fantastic range of international standard golf courses. The resort of Belek, on the Mediterranean coast, just 30 kms from Antalya, is at the heart of Turkish golf. The first golf course opened here in 1994, since when Belek has really established itself on the international golf circuit with 7 top class courses, and a further 5 planned. There are also golf courses situated just outside Istanbul, with more planned for the Istanbul, Ankara and Muğla regions.
Belek Belek is just 40 minutes drive from Antalya international airport, making for a quick and easy transfer. The hotels are all of 4 and 5 star standard and offer an excellent range of leisure facilities, with plenty to explore in the surrounding area. For more general information about Belek see page 62 or www.belektourismcenter.org
The AntalyaGolf Club consists of two 18hole courses – The Pasha and The Sultan – both of which offer challenges for all standards of golfer, in a beautiful setting. The Sultan is the more challenging of the two and was designed with the discerning golfer in mind. Both courses were constructed by European Golf Design, under the supervision of design consultant and Senior Tour professional, David Jones. The Pasha is an 18 hole golf course of 5772 metres. par 72. The Sultan is an 18 hole golf course of 6330 metres in length, par 72. Course facilities include a restaurant, bar, pro shop, locker and storage rooms. Buggies, electric and manual trolleys and
www.antalyagolfclub.com.tr
www.gloriagolf.com
The Robinson Golf Club – Nobilis has been open since 1998 and was designed by internationally renowned architect, Dave Thomas. This championship standard course of 6314 metres, par 72, is shaped from a beautiful natural pine forest and positioned alongside Belek’s Acısu River, covering an area of 729,000m². It offers excellent playing conditions and beautiful views of the surrounding mountain scenery. The driving range holds 60 people. It has a stylish Roman styled Clubhouse with a good restaurant and a Pro Shop. www.nobilis.com.tr
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
The National Golf Club was the first of Belek’s golf courses to open in late 1994, and the first in Turkey to be developed according to European PGA standards. It was designed by Ryder Cup player David Feherty and Seniors Tour player David Jones. Feherty has incorporated aspects of the best courses he has competed on in the world, and has ensured that no two holes are similar. The 18 hole course is 6,232 metres with a par of 72. Practice facilities comprise a 40-bay driving range and two chipping and putting greens. The National Golf Academy has a very pretty 1547 metre par 29 course including comprehensive instruction facility which caters for all golfers, from the scratch player to the complete beginner. Clubhouse facilities include a restaurant, bar, boutique, terrace, locker and storage rooms and a pro-shop. Buggies, rental trolleys, woods and irons are available for hire, and PGA professionals are on hand for individual and group lessons. www.nationalturkey.com
The TatInternational Golf Club is set in a stunning position, between the sweeping Beşgöz River and the Mediterranean Sea. The Tat International offers golfers not only top-class facilities, but stunning views in a magnificent setting. The 13-acre course has been designed by Hawtree of England as three loops of 9 holes, which can be combined and are called the TAT, the INTERNATIONAL and the BELEK. From the championship white tees the Tat & Belek measure 6115 metres, par 72; the Tat & the International measure 6298 metres, par 72; and the Belek & the International measure 6199 metres, par 72. There is also a 9 hole academy course and practice facilities include an extensive driving range, with two chipping and putting greens. The clubhouse houses two restaurants, a snack bar, lounge, boutiques, locker and storage rooms, pro shop, an outdoor swimming pool and terraces. www.tatgolf.com.tr
history&culture The Klassis Golf and Country Club’s course was designed by one of the world’s best known golf players, Tony Jacklin, and has hosted the European Challenge Tour in 1997 and 1998, and the BEKO Seniors PGA Tour in 1999. During its design, top British, French and Belgian golf specialists were consulted and the result is an exciting yet balanced course. It has 18 holes and is 5850 metres, par 72. In addition to the championship course, there is also a 9 hole academy course, as well as a driving range and putting green. There is an attractive clubhouse and horse riding, tennis, football and swimming facilities are also on hand.
relaxation
Within a short distance of İstanbul there are two international standard golf courses. For information on İstanbul see page 76.
wheretostay
İstanbul
The Kemer Golf & Country Club is 30 minutes from the city centre, taking you into the Belgrade Forest. This 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Joan Dudok van Heel, according to USGA specifications, caters for all golfers whether they are beginners, or professionals in search of a challenge. Its 6300 metre, par 73 course with facilities include a training course, golf club facilities, (restaurant, three café/bars, sports hall, cinema, openair swimming pool), artificial lake, stables, mountain bike and recreation club, eight tennis courts, mini football field and playground. In addition, the Golf and Country Club facilities include restaurants, a dining terrace, chess and billiard hall, bar, gymnasium, squash courts, sauna, Jacuzzi, winter garden, indoor swimming pool, tennis courts. www.kg-cc.com
factfile
www.golf.klassis.com.tr
42|discoverTURKEY
skiing anexcellentsnowrecordwithbeautiful sceneryandunusualaprèsski
S
kiing may not be the first thingwhichsprings to mind when you think of Turkey, but considering it is sucha mountainous country, it is not surprising that Turkey boasts a number of goodquality ski resorts. Its snow record is excellent with many of the resorts at high altitude. Although skiing holidays are not offered by any UK or Irish tour operators at present, it is possible to visit independently and it is surely only a matter of time before this sector develops. The first mention of alpine skiing in Turkey was in the area around Erzurum in 1914 and from 1933 onwards sporting clubs began to be formed for those interested in skiing in the areas around Bursa, Ankara and Erzurum. The Turkish Mountaineering and Horsemanship federation, which also catered for skiers, was formed in 1935 and in 1939 the Turkish Mountaineering and Winter Sports Federation was established – one of the first such organizations anywhere in the world. Turkey currently has 8 ski resorts: Uludağ, Kartalkaya, Ilgaz, Sarıkamış Palandöken, Erciyes, Davraz and Saklıkent
Uludağ Uludağ is the oldest established ski resort in Turkey. It is 36 kms from the historic centre of Bursa and 150 kms from İstanbul. Its proximity to İstanbul means that it is very popular with weekenders from the city – a high society crowd who come as much for the ambience as the skiing. It is a pretty, alpine style village with a good choice and standard of hotel accommodation and lively après ski. The ski area of Uludağ is at a height of 1750 - 2543 metres and is very picturesque, with pine trees dotting the mountain slopes, and several runs through the trees. There are some good nursery slopes facing the main resort area with an easy progression through blues
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
and reds, which make it ideal for beginners and intermediates. In total it has 1 cablecar, 5 chairlifts and 7 T bars. Qualified skiing instructors are on hand and equipment is available for hire. The ski season lasts from December through to the end of March.
Uludağ. The ski area lies between 1800-2221 metres with 3 chairlifts and 7 drag lifts. There is an average snow fall of 3 metres, and the season lasts from late December until the end of March. There are two hotels in the resort, qualified skiing instructors are available and ski equipment can be hired locally.
Palandöken Erciyes In recent years, Palandöken has become one of Turkey’s most popular ski resorts, in part due to the short 30 minute transfer from Erzurum airport, just 12 kms away, and in part due to the excellent standard of hotel accommodation on offer in the resort. Heavy investment has also been put into the infrastructure of the resort to update the lifts. Palandöken is proving popular with Russian and Dutch skiers as well as the local Turkish market. Après ski is based in hotels, which have good facilities and the historic centre of Erzurum is just 5 kms away. Palandöken is a high resort with the ski area situated between 2150 – 3200 metres, well above the tree line. What it lacks in beauty, however, it makes up for with the quality of its runs including the longest in Turkey at 12 kms. There is a good nursery slope area with drag lifts and a total of 17 pistes served by a gondola and 3 chair lifts. The majority of the runs are designed for beginners and intermediates but there are a couple of good black runs and some excellent off piste. Qualified instructors are on hand and the hotels all have their own ski hire shops. The ski season lasts from December – May.
Kartalkaya Kartalkaya is located in the Western Black Sea Region, approx. 54 kms southeast of the town of Bolu in the picturesque pine forests of the Köroğlu Mountains. Situated approximately 220 kms from Ankara airport (4 hours by bus), it is popular with well off types who visit from the city, and find it more affordable than
Erciyes Ski Centre is located on the extinct volcanic mountain of Erciyes, which is east of Cappadocia and south of the town of Kayseri. It is just a 30 minute drive from Kayseri, which is only 25 kms away. Kayseri airport is just 35 kms away – a convenient 45 minute drive. There are 2 chairlifts and 3 draglifts serving the ski area which is at a height of 1800 – 3000 metres. The longest run is 3.5 kms and there are a total of 12 kms of pistes. The season lasts from December – end of April. Ski instructors are available and equipment can be hired locally. There is one hotel in the resort.
Sarıkamış Sarıkamış ski centre is located near Sarıkamış, 60 kms from Kars in the east of Turkey. Kars airport is approx. 50 kms away – a 40 minute drive. It is famous for the quality of its powder snow. The altitude in the skiing area of Sarıkamış is from 2200-2634 metres with pistes running through beautiful pine forests, which provide shelter from the wind. The season usually lasts from December – the end of March. The resort is equipped with 2 chairlifts and 1 T bar. The Saricam telesiege is the largest and most modern in Turkey, with a capacity of 2400 pax per hour. At Cibiltepe, at an altitude of 2700 metres, there is skiing for all levels – from beginner to advanced, including a piste of 7kms surrounded by pine forests. There is one hotel situated in the resort. Qualified skiing instructors are on hand and equipment is available for hire.
history&culture story&culture relaxation wheretostay factfile 5(top) thenursery slopesatUludağ 4UludağattractsTurkey’shighsociety
44|discoverTURKEY
religioussites fewpeoplerealisethatSantaClauswas borninPatarainmodern-dayTurkey
T
urkey has a rich cultural heritage, and Asia Minor, as the land which is now Turkey was known,was ofgreat significanceto theearly Christians. Many of Turkey’s great ancient cities are mentioned in the Bible. The constitution of the Republic of Turkey guarantees freedom of worship and those of all faiths are welcomed to Turkey. Its Christian sites have become places of pilgrimage visited by many travellers, either independently or on organised tours.
Mereyam Ana Evi,the HouseofMotherMary It is know from the Bible that Jesus entrusted his mother to the safekeeping of his friend and disciple, John. It is believed that during the persecution of the Christians in Jerusalem around 49 AD, John took Mary to Ephesus where it is thought that she spent the last years of her life. The House of Mother Mary or Meryem Ana Evi as it is known in Turkish has been partly reconstructed, and is open to the public for pilgrimage and prayer.
SaintNicholas (SantaClaus) St Nicholas or Father Christmas, is one of the most popular Saints in the Christian world. Perhaps best known as the patron saint of children, he is patron of a whole range of diverse groups including barrel-makers, sailors & fishermen, thieves and pawn-brokers as well as of Greece and Russia. More readily associated with snowy climes, few people realise that he was born in what is modern-day Turkey, in Patara, a port in the province of Lycia, around 270 AD. His life is shrouded in stories and legends but we do know that he was bishop of Myra at the time of Constantine the Great and that he took part in the first Ecumenical Council, in Nicea (İznik) in 325
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
A.D. After his death, his remains rested in the church dedicated to God in his honour until 1087, when some Italian sailors, devotees of this Patron Saint of seafarers, succeeded in taking his relics to Bari, where they laid them in a Basilica built in his honour, and where they remain until this day. His feast day is celebrated both in the east and west on December 6, when traditionally gifts are exchanged amongst friends and relatives. Perhaps the most enduring legend surrounding his life is the story that he secretly helped a poor father to provide a decent dowry for his three daughters, throwing three bags of gold through an open window, thus making it possible for them to get married, rather than being sold into prostitution. These three bags of gold are the origin of the three gold balls denoting a pawn-broker’s shop.
to Antioch. He travelled by foot and by boat, teaching his religion as he went, and attempting to convert his listeners. A year later he set off on his second journey (50-53 AD) heading for Macedonia and establishing churches in Philippi, Thessalonika and Beroea before traveling on to Athens and Corinth, returning to Antioch by boat via Ephesus. During his third journey (54-58 AD) he spent three years in Ephesus preaching and instructing those Jews and Pagans who joined the fold in the ways and beliefs of the new religion of Christianity. Whilst he was here he wrote some of his famous letters or epistles to other Christian communities, including to the Corinthians and the Romans. Having spent two years under arrest in Jerusalem, Paul was freed and travelled back to Rome where he was arrested, sentenced to death and beheaded in 61 AD.
The Church of St. Nicholas in Demre ancient Myra, can still be visited today and there is a festival held there each year in the first week of December to mark his feast day.
TheChurches oftheRevelation
TheJourneys ofSt.Paul Ancient Anatolia, the land which is now Turkey, was one of the first places where Christianity spread. The early Christians were persecuted by the Jews and fled Palestine, setting up communities in places such as Antioch, present-day Antakya. Paul of Tarsus, to become St. Paul, was one of the first preachers of the new religion, having himself undergone a stunning conversion on the road to Damascus. Paul was introduced to the church in Antioch by Barnabas, and from here he set off on his first apostolic journey (44-49 AD) which took him to Seleucia, Cyprus and then back to Perge, Antioch in Pisidia (Yalvaç), Iconium (Konya), Derbe, Attaleia (Antalya) and back
The seven churches which St. John mentions in the book of Revelations are all in presentday Turkey: Ephesus, Smyrna (İzmir), Pergamum, Thyatira (Akhisar) ,Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea (Denizli). There are a number of companies who organise tours to visit these sites.
TheNicean Creed In 324 Constantine the Great founded the city of Constantinople (İstanbul), which he later made the capital of his Holy Roman Empire, declaring Christianity to be its official religion. After centuries of persecution, Christians could finally worship openly. In 325 the Church celebrated the first Ecumenical Council in the city of Nicea (İznik). It was felt that some inconsistencies and errors were being propagated amongst Christians, so this meeting provided the opportunity to confirm the basic tenets of the faith, set out in the Nicean Creed which is still said in churches today.
history&culture relaxation wheretostay factfile 4detailofamosaicinHaghia Sophia,Istanbul
5ChurchofStStephenofthe Bulgars,madecompletelyofcast ironandconstructedin1871
5(above) statueofStNicholas whowas BishopofMyra
46|discoverTURKEY
spasandthermalsprings theancientRomansdiscovered thetherapeuticpowersof Turkey’smanythermalsprings
T
hereareover onethousand thermal springs or kaplıca in Turkey, scattered throughout western Anatolia. The spa holiday with its pampering and its health and beauty treatments may seem like a relatively new phenomenon, but the health-giving properties of Turkey’s natural springs have been renowned since antiquity. The Romans were well aware of the therapeutic powers of thermal springs and mineral waters, building the ancient city of Hierapolis close to the waters of Pamukkale.
Bursa In Bursa too, at the foot of Mount Uludağ, it was the Roman Emperor, Justinian, who first built baths to benefit from the natural hot springs of Çekirge These were later enlarged by the Ottoman Sultan Murat I and the Turkish Baths here, with their warm thermal pools, are still in use today. At the beginning of the 20th century, Bursa became renowned amongst Europe’s nobility who came to take the waters, and Atatürk himself frequented Bursa’s oldest spa hotel, the Çelik Palas, which was built in 1933. The thermal waters of the Çekirge springs are composed of calcium, magnesium sulphate and bicarbonate and are said to be good for rheumatic, hepatic, and gall bladder diseases; metabolic and gynaecological disorders and post-operative problems. Some thermal waters are simply for relaxation, but others are purported to have specific health benefits. In either case, spas in Turkey are monitored by the Ministry of Health to ensure that they meet required standards of hygiene. These are some of Turkey’s best known natural springs and thermal waters, although not all of them have luxurious facilities. If you are looking for luxury then many of Turkey’s top
discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
hotels now have their own spas and health clubs offering the latest in health and beauty treatments.
Kangal Sivas Balıklı Çermik Perhaps the most unusual of Turkey’s spas is the Kangal Sivas Balıklı Çermik, the ‘Hot Springs with Fish’ situated 13 kms from the town of Kangal in the province of Sivas in Central Anatolia. As the name suggests, the thermal waters contain numerous tiny fish. They are 2-10 cms in length and play an important role in the cure of psoriasis – apparently by scraping or nibbling off the diseased areas of skin. The thermal springs come from five different sources, flowing at a rate of 130 litres per second, and the fish come directly from the springs into two large pools. The water itself contains bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium sulphate, chlorine, sodium and magnesium as well as carbon dioxide gas. It is said to be beneficial for complaints such as rheumatism as well as for gynaecological complaints and skin diseases. Although accommodation here is not luxurious, there are motels and restaurants close to the spa.
TheBalçovaSprings, The Balçova Springs, located 10 kms west of İzmir, have also been appreciated since ancient times. They are situated on the site of the Baths of Agamemnon, known in antiquity for the therapeutic qualities of their waters. According to legend, Agamemnon consulted an oracle and was told to bring soldiers who had been wounded during the campaign against Troy here. The Balcova hot springs contain sodium chloride and calcium bicarbonate and are recommended for the treatment of rheumatic diseases, digestive maladies, post-injury healing and post- operative problems, along with calcification and metabolic disorders. The spa complex boasts 400 beds together
with Turkey’s largest indoor thermal pool as well as a patient therapy pool, sauna, massage, underwater massage, ultrasound, physical exercise, electro-therapy and physical therapy. İzmir’s Ege University has built a treatment centre nearby
Çeşme The popular Aegean resort of Çeşme, situated some 80 kms west of İzmir, takes its name, which means ‘fountain’ from the natural hot springs which abound in the area. It is a perfect choice for anyone who wishes to combine spa treatments with a beach holiday and there is a wealth of good hotel accommodation nearby. Some hotels even have their own spas which make use of the natural mineral water. The most famous of the hot springs, Ilıca, is set right alongside a long, white sandy beach of the same name. These springs contain a high level of sodium chloride, magnesium sulphate, and calcium bicarbonate. As well as the hot mineral pools and baths, the spa also offers underwater massage and electrotherapy.
Dalyan Those who just want a bit of fun and to combine the benefits of natural mineral waters with a good day out, should consider a visit to one of the thermal baths near Dalyan, situated close to Köyceğiz Lake, and within easy reach of both Fethiye and Marmaris. The ancient settlement of Sultaniye, with its mud baths and water pool is billed as making you look 10 years younger - but you have to smother yourself in the strongsmelling mud first. There is a second spring at Velibey Thermal Baths, 1.5 km north of Riza Çavuş with similar qualities. These hot springs contain sodium chloride, hydrogen, sulfur, bromide, fluoride, and are said to be good for the treatment of rheumatic, dermatological and gynaecological diseases, as well as neurological and physical exhaustion.
5thethermalpoolsatPamukkale factfile
wheretostay
relaxation
history&culture
48|discoverTURKEY
actionsports thrill-seekerswillrelishtheopportunity toparaglidefrom1900metresover thespectacularlagoonofÖlüdeniz
I
f you don’t want to spend your holiday sitting on a beach, and museums and ruins bore you, then readon... Serious thrill-seekers will relish the opportunity to paraglide from 1900 metres from the Babadag mountains over the spectacular lagoon of Ölüdeniz or face the rapids on the Çoruh river. Meanwhile those who just prefer a different perspective will enjoy exploring Turkey’s sights underwater. Turkey is perfectly placed to take advantage of the recent trend for activity and sporting holidays – it is such a large country, with such a varied landscape that it can cater for almost every type of activity. This is a summary of some of the most popular and exciting action sports on offer in Turkey. Watersports are available in just about every beach resort in Turkey. Cesme and Bitez are both popular for wind-surfing. Scuba diving has really taken off in Turkey in recent years, partly due to the clear, warm waters – visibility of 30 metres is not uncommon - and the wealth of historic and natural treasures to be observed under the water, but also because, compared to many other destinations, Turkey represents excellent value for money. The diving season usually runs from April to November. There are scuba diving schools throughout the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts catering for everyone from beginners to experts. Marmaris, Fethiye, Kaş and Antalya are some of the main centres.
Divinghighlights include: Tekirova: the surrounding islands have a wonderful array of sea life including huge thornback rays, and are also a good location for cavern diving. During August and September there is a huge amount of tuna fish and seals, and dolphins can be seen throughout the year Sican:a few kilometres from Antalya harbour, this island is also popular. The coast on the west side is relatively shallow and discoverturkeyatwww.gototurkey.co.uk
sandy (maximum 8m) but on the northeast side with rocky seabed descends to 22m, which also has a small cavern. Kas: The seas around Kalkan are suited to experienced divers, with species of sea life including sharks, turtles, tuna and thornback rays. Patara has coral and sea sponges, and the Fener waters descend from 11-132m, with lively and colourful sights. Oksuz Island is known for its lizard fish, a member of the shark family. Finike: Gök Cavern near Finike, is one of the deepest in Asia which is accessible to divers. The cavern reaches the seabed and has a wide entrance, and the presence of stalactites indicates that this was once dry. Kemer: One of the most popular diving areas in the region is the Three Islands, off Tekirova, which has many dive sites and greater depth than Antalya. Datça: The area around Datça has wonderful diving opportunities with many sharks, dolphins and Mediterranean seals at a depth of between 10-40m, especially around the islands of Kara Incir. There is a good dive point off Esen Island, which is connected to Datça harbour. Marmaris: There are 52 diving points and a large selection of ancient underwater ruins around the area of Marmaris, including off the coast of Dis (33m), Rodos, Kutuk, Burnu, Cennet Island, Kadirga Feneri and Kargi Island. The steep slope of the seabed off Cennet Island contains especially beautiful plant and animal life. Bodrum is known for its great diving opportunities with great depths, colourful sea sponges and caverns. The waters around Kargi and Kocek islands, around 20-30m depth, contain antique ruins, with sea creatures of all sizes and good for macro photography. Çatal Island and the coast off Gemitaşı are also good dive sites. ForbiddenZones: There are a number of protected sites which include military zones as well as regions in which there is Cultural and Natural Wealth.
White-waterRafting Turkey has a number of rivers, which are suitable for white-water rafting, offering a challenge to everyone from beginners to experts. Probably the most famous of Turkey’s sites for this exciting activity, is the Çoruh River, in Turkey’s stunning Black Sea region, in the province of Artvin, which attracts both local and international sportsmen. It is one of the fastest flowing rivers in the world, as it travels its 466 kms from its origins at 3225 metres in the Mescit Mountains to the Black Sea, over the border in Georgia. It is not just the waters which are exhilarating but also the surrounding mountain scenery which is rich in wildlife including rare red vultures, bear, goats, wild boars and wolves. The Fırtına River, also in the Black Sea Region, is also popular for river sports as is the Köprüçay in the region of Antalya and the Manavgat in the same region.
Paragliding Paragliding involves jumping off a mountain with a parachute attached, either solo or, for beginners, in tandem. One of the best places in the world to paraglide is Babadağ in Fethiye, the mountains which overlook the stunning natural lagoon of Ölüdeniz. It was discovered by international pilots in the early 1990’s and now attracts both local and foreign enthusiasts. It is possible for complete novices to participate in a tandem jump, which can be booked locally or through a tour operator, and includes transport for the ascent, equipment and basic training. It is not just the altitude which is spectacular but also the views, as you jump over one of Turkey’s most beautiful stretches of coast to land on the Belceğiz beach. The jumping season is usually between April and October and you can take off at various points up to 1900 metres high in the mountains.
history&culture relaxation wheretostay factfile
copyrightedimagekindly suppliedbyExclusiveEscapes
5(top) paraglidingoverÖlüdeniz 5(above)canoeinginAntalya 4white-water rafting
copyrightedimagekindly suppliedbyExclusiveEscapes
Turkish Culture�and�Tourism�Office t: 020 7629 7771 e:
[email protected] www.gototurkey.co.uk
opening hours:�9.30-5.30�Monday to�Friday
