Alanya, referred to affectionately as the the ‘Pearl of the Turkish Riviera’ – truly a jewel in the crown of the Turkish Mediterranean coast. Expanses of golden, sandy beaches, pine covered mountain forests, a wealth of history and culture – a combination of the old and new and the familiar and exotic. As well as all this, Alanya is also one of Turkey’s most important agricultural regions, with fresh fruit and vegetables being cultivated year round.
Whether you want simply to relax on the beach or by the pool, or indulge your passion for sports activities, Alanya has something for everyone!
During the reign of the Seljuk Turks, when the capital of the Ottoman empire was based in Konya, Alaaddin Keykubat built a summer residence in Alanya and from the 13th century onwards, Alanya castle has become a familiar symbol of the city. Today, history lovers can explore this ancient fortress, some 280 metres above sea level and with its walls extending for some 6.500 metres from top to bottom.
Further afield, you may also choose to explore the ancient ruined cities of Syedra, Alarahanu, Antioch and Iotape, all easily accessible by car or public transport.
Alanya is also an ideal destination for families with children. Alongside the stunning beaches, there are numerous open-air children's playgrounds with swings, slides and see-saws. The water park and dolphinarium will complete your holiday, leaving the children with lasting impressions for many years to come.
Freshly squeezed juices from local, seasonal fruits will boost your immune system throughout the whole year – in addition, the air of this region of the Mediterranean is rich in iodine, essential in maintaining a healthy, fit metabolism. Alanya is also home to the Damlataş Cave, high in humidity, helping to alleviate (and possibly even cure!) those with respiratory ailments.
Fans of nightlife can enjoy the numerous bars and nightclubs located around the harbour area or maybe venture further afield to party the night away at either the open-air "Summer Garden" or the stylish "Club Illusion". In the summer season, the week and the weekend merge into one so you can choose to boogie the night away any day of the week! After tiring yourself out on the dance floor, do as the Turks do and enjoy a warm soup dish in many of the traditional Turkish soup rooms in the early hours!
Alanya's cafes and restaurants will satisfy the most demanding of gourmet’s – choose from high quality European, Japanese, Russian, Scandinavian and of course, Turkish cuisine. Many of Alanya’s restaurants have an enviable location and offer breath-taking elevated views of both the sea and the Taurus mountains. It is these mountains that protect Alanya from the cool, northerly winds, creating a unique, almost sub-tropical climate that makes it possible to bathe in the sea year round.
There are farmer’s markets that take place every day of the week. The smell of spices, home-made cheeses and pickles, fruits and vegetables – whatever takes your fancy, the choices are seemingly endless.
Experience the hospitality for which the Turks are renowned, leaving an ever lasting impression which will make you want to return again and again. Turkey is one of the few countries where it is possible to communicate in Russian and Turkish at even the most basic of levels – indeed, it is the Russians that are the most travelled visitors to Alanya. Whilst the locals are happy to speak with you with a little basic knowledge of the Russian language, surprise them with a few simple Turkish phrases such as ‘Merkaba’ (hello) or ‘Teshekkur ederim’ (thank you) and you will forever be a friend.
Warm, turquoise sea and sunshine 300 days a year, smiles and happiness aplenty – Alanya awaits you!