An elegant harbourside town, which clings to a steep cliff and overlooks a beautiful clear sea water bay. It’s vibrant and lively atmosphere is contagious.

The white washed, Ottoman style, town centre has a network of cobbled streets often offering up hidden gems of restaurants, bars, quaint cafes or boutique shops.

The town is renowned for its high quality cuisines and a wide selection of restaurants and bars. Whether that be the restaurant’s hidden on the many narrow winding side streets; those by the harbour where you can watch the boats come and go; or the many, located on roof terraces overlooking the bay.

It offers some of the best food on the coast, offering locally-sourced ingredients, including seafood and lamb.  The beauty of this town is matched by the warmth and friendliness of the locals.

Culture

The area has a large number of historical sites which are all within easy reach and reflect the history of the region, including  the Lycian cities of Xanthos (UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its 2nd Century AD amphitheatre); Letoon (soak up the romantic atmosphere around the Temples) and Tlos (with its ancient stadium).

Beaches

Lots of opportunities to experience swimming and sunbathing from the local pebble beach in the town to Patara or Kaputaş beaches.   An array of beach clubs are also easily accessible either on foot or via boat or water taxi. We talk about these in greater detail later.

Shopping

There are a number of Supermarkets in town that can be reached either on foot (if you are in town) or by car/taxi (if outside of town).  Big names locally include Carrefour & Migros. Cheaper branded stores include A101, Sok and Bim.

Market Day

This takes place every Thursday from the early hours to early evening, where all forms of “genuine fakes” can be found, including herbs, spices and locally grown produce.

Boat Trips

These are an essential part of your stay.  Majority leave the harbour around 10am and return at 5pm.  Sunset and Moonlight trips also available. These trips can be reserved in advance or whilst you are here.

Beach Clubs

A number – with their own restaurant & bar –  can be found along the coast – some with free water taxis – with beach platforms that provide guests with sunbeds and easy access to the sea. Some provide Snorkels, pedalos and kayaks.  For the more adventurous jet-skiing or water-skiing are also available.

Local walks & Treks

The region offers many opportunities for walking and trekking including the Kalkan contribution to the Lycian Way (named one of the World’s top 10 long-distance walks by the Sunday Times) which can take you from your property all the way to Patara beach and a much needed refreshment (ours is always a chilled Turkish beer [Efes] on arrival) or a walk around the breathtaking nearby countryside town of Islamlar (which has many Trout farms) and surrounding villages.

Beaches

Kalkan has its own pebbly beach but there are a number of other beaches all within easy reach –

Kaputas: The breathtaking Kaputaş is midway between Kalkan and the next harbour town of Kaş. Set at the bottom of a gorge, it has beautiful secluded surroundings. When you are on it, you will fully appreciate the wow factor.

Patara: This is the longest (18km) golden sand beach in Turkey. Renowned for its beautiful sunsets. Set near the ancient Lycian city of Patara.  A short distance away (10/15min car ride).