The Bodrum Peninsula

Throughout history Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and its people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others. Described by Homer as “The land of eternal blue”, Bodrum exceeds expectations in reality. Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbours, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbours. Bodrum has all the facilities to meet the most discerning of tastes.

 The peninsula can now proudly boast three International Marinas situated in Bodrum, Yalikavak and Turgutreis of which Bodrum holds an annual International Boat Race with competitors from all over the world.

 A cosmopolitan town with both locals and foreign residents living in harmony, the Bodrum Peninsula is unique along the Aegean Coast as there is a law prohibiting properties taller than traditional two storey houses, therefore, retaining its Mediterranean ambience.

Bodrum is a vibrant town combining both the traditional way of life with the modern European influence.

There are many wonderful beaches along the Bodrum Peninsula which can be reached by the local bus services which all originate from Bodrum bus station.  This is a fun and traditional way of exploring the area indeed it is a must do experience!!  The local buses are called DOLMUS which literally translates as STUFFED!!   In the summer the bus service runs 24 hours a day making the whole of the peninsula accessible for a very reasonable price from as little as 40 pence.

 Here are just a few examples of the beautiful beaches and coves just a short distance away;

Torba: This peaceful little village just 5 km from Bodrum is a charming and lively place where the shining sea complements the green pines and olive trees. Boat excursions to Didim, Milet and Priene can be taken from here.

Gölköy: Located 13 km north of Bodrum, this beautiful cove blends the greens of olive, tangerine, pine trees and palms. Facing north, it is always lush and the water in the cove is cooler than that of other coves.

Türkbükü: Situated beside Gölköy, 15 km from Bodrum, Türkbükü resembles Gölköy in almost every way. It is one of the places preferred by those seeking peace and quiet.

Gündogan: Located 18 km from Bodrum, Gündogan cove is one of the coves, which still preserves its natural beauty; and is famous for its tangerine orchards.

Yalıkavak: This village is 18 km from Bodrum in the northwest of the peninsula. It is famous for its windmills, fish, citrus orchards and sea. The famous sponge divers came from this village.

Gümüslük: This is one of the oldest settlements on the peninsula. It is still possible to see the underwater remains of the old harbour wall, which connected the island of Tavs to the mainland. The sea and fish here are famous. Watching the sunset here amidst the lush green vegetation will be a life-long memory.

Kadıkalesi: Citrus orchards surround the sandy beaches of the crystal clear sea. Situated 23 km from Bodrum, it gets its name from the remains of a nearby castle belonging to the Hellenistic era.

Turgutreis: Situated 20 km from Bodrum, the town is famous for its tangerine orchards. It was named after the famous Turkish admiral, Turgut Reis. It is one of the most popular and, indeed, populated areas of the peninsula. It is known for its unforgettable sunsets.

Akyarlar: This cove with its wonderful beach and crystal clear waters is 13 km from Bodrum. It is one of the best places to surf.

Karaincir: Situated 16 km out of Bodrum, its 500 m. beach is one of the best in the area.

Bagla: 14 km from Bodrum and with one of the best coves and beaches on the peninsula, it is an excellent place for camping. Aspat or Aspartos, rising out of the shores of the Aegean is mentioned often in Turkish folk music. Built on a barren rock, the perimeter of Aspat Castle measures 700 paces. The remains of several civilizations dating back to the Classical Age can be seen here.

Ortakent: Located 14 km from Bodrum, is famous for its warm waters, sandy beaches and tangerine orchards. It is one of the best vantage points from which to view village life in Bodrum.

Bitez: One of the most beautiful coves on the peninsula, Bitez is 10 km from Bodrum. It has a lovely safe beach and boasts several friendly restaurants.

Gümbet: About 3 km west of Bodrum with very shallow waters. Boat trips to Bardakçı can be arranged here.

The peninsula remains un spoilt as the traditional Turkish homes here are often compared to sugar cubes. These are normally no more than two storeys high with picturesque pergolas and creeping bougainvilleas.

Stretching from Bodrum to the southeast, Gökova Bay was given the title “the Blue Voyage” at the time of its discovery by Halikarnas Balıkçısı and Azra Erhat. Boats, which pull up anchor in Bodrum and head for Gökova, will soon discover the ultimate harmony of green and blue and the beauties, which lie under the crystal clear waters.

Each village along the Peninsula offers its own unique type of entertainment.  Here are just a few tantalizing examples;