Exploring the lovely landscapes and magnificent coastlines of Turkey's Aegean region

The Aegean Coast of Turkey is a beautiful area on the west coast of Turkey (Türkiye). You will find fantastic bays, extensive olive groves, and untouched nature. Not only will beach lovers get their money’s worth here, culture buffs won’t believe their luck either. But before you go, you should familiarise yourself with the Aegean way of life. It consists of three essential things: slow down the pace, enjoy every moment, and be inspired by small things. Whether it’s the juiciness of a sun-kissed tomato, the smell of wild thyme, or the sound of the waves at night. For anyone willing to do this, this is your next vacation spot.

HISTORICALLY BEAUTIFUL

Cities on the Aegean Coast such as Bodrum, Marmaris, and Kusadasi, just like Tre, probably sound familiar to you. But we take you on an ancient anti-travel from Troy, in the north of the coast, to Bodrum, which is much more in the south. Our journey starts at the archaeological site of Troy. This world-famous city, which owes its name to the Trojan Horse, is a case of ‘you simply cannot miss it’. In addition to a reconstruction of the horse, you can visit the impressive excavations of the ancient city, with temple walls that have remained intact for thousands of years.

That the area on the Aegean Coast is special is also apparent from other places in the region, such as Pergamon and Pamukkale, which, just like Troy, are on the UNESCO list of World Heritages. The ancient city of Pergamon is a charming place, yet it is much less touristy than the more famous archaeological city, Ephesus. A ride on the funicular takes you to a beautiful view of the ruins in just five minutes. A must see.

GOOD VIBES ONLY

To recover from our historical excursions, we have to slow down our pace. We continue our way to Alaçatı, the ultimate paradise for sailors. Think of a coast full of harbours and fantastic sailing routes. But also on land, you imagine yourself in a fairy tale: the small streets consist of houses built of large stones, overgrown with fuchsia-coloured flowers. There is no shortage of restaurants with cosy terraces. Here, you will find good vibes only, as witnessed by the many well-known, blue ‘nazar’ glass amulets, which decorate the streets and are said to ward off evil looks. 

Alaçatı is no exception: the surrounding villages are just as charming and idyllic. Nevertheless, a visit to the large city of Izmir, the pearl of the Aegean coast, should not be missed. French writer and poet Victor Hugo once wrote: ‘Izmir is a princess, adorned with a necklace’, as if he knew that this city would develop into a modern, lively, and cultural centre. During the day, visit elegant mosques, traditional bazaars along palm-lined boulevards, and hilltop ruins. In the evening, head to a classical music festival, jazz performance, or any other event of the cultural calendar that keeps this third-largest city in Turkey always on the move.

PAST PERFECT

During your trip in Turkey, keep a day free to visit the natural phenomenon Pamukkale, or ‘Castle of Cotton’. Calcareous spring water runs here through a large number of terraces with slopes, creating a kind of petrified waterfall. The whole thing feels surreal, as hot pools form on every terrace in a snow white landscape that looks like ice. If you didn’t know better, you’d think you were in a wintery landscape... Not only do the baths in Pamukkale provide a fantastic view, there is also a centuries-old belief that the calcareous spring water has a beneficial effect on the skin, nerves, and muscles in the body. 

Another city where everything from culture to culinary delights is within easy reach is the grand, charming, and colourful Bodrum. Here, for a history lesson, visit the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus or head to the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where you can enjoy a spectacular view from one of the four towers. Then settle down in the evening at one of the luxurious, top restaurants that use ingredients from the local area for their dishes.

DID SOMEONE SAY FOOD?

Yes, of course we need to talk a little more about that. There are numerous traditional fish restaurants on the coast, but it is the delicious mezes, in addition to the fresh fish, that make the cuisine here unique. Mother Nature generously ensures that a variety of fruits and vegetables can be grown in the Aegean region. This explains the delicious dishes based on olive oil and fresh ingredients. Edible wild plants and herbs, in particular, are an important part of Aegean cuisine: wild fennel, dandelion leaf, and holy thistle are boiled or baked and served with lamb or salads.

Aegean Turkey promises you an unusual holiday where everything is covered. And then we haven’t even mentioned the hospitality of the people. Because different cultures and people live on this coast, a colourful cultural mosaic has formed here. Sincere and hospitable—with open arms—is what enthusiastic visitors call the residents of this Turkish area. High time to fly into the arms of the Aegean Coast.

This piece originally appeared in the October 2021 print edition of Harper's Bazaar India