Bodrum & Aegean Coast overview
The birthplace of Herodotus and a major influence in world history, the Bodrum area blends remnants of the ancients with a delightful climate, magnificent beaches, fantastic scenery, charming waterfront restaurants, a plethora of watersports, and markets and bazaars for the most energetic of treasure seekers.
The Bodrum peninsula boasts a plethora of ancient archaeological sites, nearly 200km of coastline, and more than 30 islands. Beach resorts range from the bustling and trendy to the tranquil and traditional, and whilst glorious golden sand and pebble beaches which are perfect for watersports including snorkelling and scuba diving abound, there are also quiet bays and secluded coves discoverable only by boat. In addition to a wonderful climate and fantastic scenery, there are delightful waterfront restaurants, friendly bars and fantastic shopping, especially in Bodrum with its covered bazaar, boutiques and markets. Classic Collection Holidays can tailor make holidays from any UK airport to Bodrum using scheduled, charter or no frills flights.
Bodrum, Gumbet & Yaliciftlik
The upmarket resort of Bodrum boasts a world-class marina where leisurely days and perfect evenings can be whiled away sipping cocktails and watching the world, and luxury yachts and gulets, go by. One of Turkey’s most popular resorts, Bodrum with its pretty whitewashed houses covered in bougainvillea is also home to trendy bars and clubs, chic boutiques and sophisticated restaurants, and the whole town is dominated by the Castle of St Peter which overlooks the headland and towers above the streets.
Situated 3km west of Bodrum with easy access by dolmus bus and boat services, Gumbet, named after the domed water-cisterns in the nearby countryside, boasts one of the longest sandy beaches on the peninsula with shallow, clear waters, perfect for watersports. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, and the nightlife rivals that of Bodrum with its bars and late night dancing.
16km east of Bodrum at the mouth of the Gulf of Gokova lies Yaliciftlik the most tranquil resort on the peninsula offering quiet, uncrowded pebble beaches, a few restaurants, and a peaceful way of life. Secluded coves can be reached by boat from Yaliciftlik, and for nature lovers there are long walks in the beautiful forests and lazy days on the beach.
Torba & Turgutreis
Nestling in fragrant pine forests and olive groves the small, charming seaside village of Torba is located on the north side of Bodrum peninsula, about 7km and a ten minute dolmus ride from the centre of Bodrum. In a secluded bay, with a backdrop of hillsides heavenly scented by wild herbs this sleepy resort boasts a small pebble beach and traditional restaurants serving delicious seafood and delightfully authentic mezze.
There are some interesting ruins of a Byzantine monastery on the east side of Torba Bay and a well preserved 2,500 year structure thought to be a tomb structure overlooking the village. Named after the renowned 16th century Ottoman Admiral Turgut Reis Pasha, Turgutreis is located on the western tip of the Bodrum peninsula. The second largest town in the region it boasts a sophisticated marina with fine restaurants, waterfront cafés, bars and exclusive boutiques, and a long sand and shingle beach shelving gently into the sea; ideal for watersports enthusiasts and families. A popular Saturday
market with stalls of pottery, clothing, leather goods and fresh produce adds to the lively atmosphere, and there’s a regular dolmus service taking about 20 minutes to Bodrum which is 20km away.