The Lycean Coast
Sailing the Lycean Coast
Charter out of Marmaris, Gocek or Fethiye and sail the magnificent Lycean coast. Surrounded by verdant mountains, Lycean ruins, and turquoise waters you’ll find yourself sailing in a Mediterranean paradise. In ancient times the Lycean’s, who featured in Homer’s Iliad, settled in the region and the ruins of their cities and majestic rock tombs are interspersed throughout the region. The Lycean coast is an area full of natural splendor & history that’s begging to be explored on a charter holiday.
In recent years the areas once isolated fishing villages have become more developed. However the cobbled narrow backstreets, the call to prayer from the local mosques and the friendly locals ensure that the area is full of authenticity and endless charm. The Lycean coast has destinations to suite everyone’s taste; from the luxurious & upmarket towns of Gocek & Kalkan, to the well established Oludeniz where you’ll find a long beach, blue lagoon and surrounding national park. The Lycean Coast is fast growing in popularity and quickly becoming established as one of the Mediterraneans premier sailing destinations.
Highlights
Kas
Kas is one of the more developed settlements along the Lycean Coast, here you’ll find convenience as regards provisioning, marina facilities and dining ashore in a wonderful setting. A short walk from the town takes you to the mostly intact remains of an ancient Hellenistic amphitheatre. Set against the sea the amphitheatre is amazingly well preserved and a must for any history lovers.
Take the time to visit the nearby island of Kekova where you’ll come across the underwater ruins of Dolchiste, an ancient Lycean settlement that sank into the sea after an earthquake in the 2nd century.
Kalkan
Kalkan has a typically Mediterranean feel about it; with whitewashed houses and brightly coloured flowers lining its small cobbled streets. Nearby you’ll find the wonderful Patara beach, this 12km long stretch of pristine sands makes for a wonderful stroll. You could also venture to leave the boat in port for a while and use the opportunity to visit some of the nearby in-land attractions:
Head to the nearby Saklikent National Park where you can tube down a stunning river gorge. Or if historical landmarks sit high on your list of things to do; check out the world-famous UNESCO sites at Letoon and Xanthos. Just a short taxi ride will take you to these astounding sites of historical significance.