We first came to Dalyan 1996 on a day trip by boat from Marmaris and returned the following year.  All visitors are enchanted by the sheer beauty of the scenery; sea, river, mountains, lakes and beautiful trees and reed beds.  The hustle and bustle of the small town life, farming, fishing and local artisans all co-existing with the charming hospitality of the tourist trade.  Friendly people who do not hassle you in the street to "come buy" but who welcome you in for a complimentary apple or Turkish tea so they can sit and practise their English.

The Majestic Lycian Rock Tombs of Kaunos take pride of position and seem to oversee the whole of Dalyan life now as they have for the last two and a half thousand years.

There are lots of things to do in Dalyan, including boat trips, sailing, mud baths, turtle spotting, Turkish baths, white water rafting, snorkelling, diving, a beautiful deserted beach and visiting the ancient ruins of Kaunos.  Or you can of course just relax and enjoy the sun, sea and sand.

Since 1986, Dalyan and its delta has been a conservation area and wildlife sanctuary.  Because of this, the small town on the South West coast of the Mediterranean has kept its Turkish charm and appeal.  Many people like us return year after year and a few never leave.

The beach is arguably one of the finest in the world.  Accessible by boat which chugs down the river, through the rustling reeds, to the open tip of the beach, with an opportunity to spot the turtles, and many species of birds.  Alternatively, the Dolmus (local bus) travels across farmland and over the mountains through beautiful winding roads lined with Oleander.  Both ways offer spectacular scenery and well worth doing.

For a historical cultural experience take the rowing boat across the river and walk down the back lanes to the ancient ruined city of Kaunos.  This was a very significant port, with ruined temples, an amphitheatre, castle and walls but unlike Greece or Rome you can take your viewing at leisure in the cooler parts of the day with few other tourists to compete with.

Dalyan Market

Held near the mosque every Saturday and not to be missed.  You will enjoy haggling for "Genuine Fakes".  There are many varied stalls great for those holiday girfts and a must to stock up on your fruit and veg for the week.

Eating Out In Dalyan

Good healthy food, typical Mediterranean staples... tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, fish, pasta, etc... and not expensive.  As there are more than 100 places to choose from it is hard to narrow down just a few to recommend.  We do of course have our favourites and many good friends amongst the staff.  On the more rural lanes you will find garden restaurants and there are special river and wildlife sanctuary restaurants out of town which offer free pick up and drop off service.

Shopping In Dalyan

The shops offer a large variety of goods and stay open very late, so the main street is alive with shoppers and the bars have seating into the road as it is closed to traffic from dusk.  Their are excellent gold, leather and carpet shops, where nothing is too much trouble.

Health

There are at least four chemists (Eczane) in town and a 24 hour facility rota, where prescriptions are generally much cheaper.  The doctors are very good and there is a health centre/clinic.

We believe we are well placed to offer added-value to guests of Villa Luxor because we actually live in Dalyan from April to November.  Whilst we will not be "in your face" we will visit on your arrival and be available to discuss your particular needs.  As part owners of an apartment complex called Beyaz Villas where, incidentally, you are always welcome to eat or drink, we organise trips for our guests and you may care to join us.  These are usually different from the usual tours (in as much as we avoid gold and carpet shops) and have been developed over the years to maximise the enjoyment.