Dalyan is just 30 minutes from
Dalaman airport, and was destined to
become a centre for large-scale tourism development. Plans
changed,
however, in the mid 80’swhen it was discovered that
the beautiful
spit of sandy beach is a nesting ground for the rare Caretta
caretta
or loggerhead turtles which lay their eggs here in the clean
fine sand.
Dalyan, has remained, therefore, a sleepy haven its unspoilt
nature
protected by strict regulations which mean that the beach
is not
accessible after dark.
 Dalyan
is on a river delta, its narrow waterways, surrounded by reed
beds. The small town is set to a backdrop of stunning mountains,
the river overlooked by ancient Lycian-style tombs carved
high into the rock face. There are some good restaurants on
the riverfront and the main street is home to a selection
of restaurants and shops and a few bars. The town itself is
flat and easy to get around. Boats depart regularly from the
riverfront for the short trip to IÏztuzu beach, approximately
40 minutes away. It is a beautiful bar of fine, golden sand
gently shelving into the sea. Since there is no development,
here, however, there is little in the way of facilities so
it is best to come prepared. The beach can also be reached
by dolmus¸.
Those who stay in Dalyan have a choice of self-catering and
hotel accommodation, from 4 star hotels to simple pensions.
Most are built in traditional style to fit in with the natural
setting, and many are set on the beautiful riverfront. Many
people, however, visit Dalyan on a day-trip by boat from nearby
resorts such as Marmaris and Fethiye.
The ruins of the ancient city of Caunos are close by and
can
by reached by boat or on foot. It was originally on the sea,
but
its harbour gradually silted up and felt into disuse. It has
only
been partially excavated but the remains are
extensive and include a theatre dating from
the 2nd century BC, Roman baths, temple
of Apollo and agora or marketplace.
 Close
to Dalyan are the thermal springs and mudbaths of IlĘca and
Sultaniye, which are reputed to have many health-giving powers
and are a fun and relaxing way to unwind. Recently, there
have been a number of developments at the nearby bay of SarĘgerme,
with its beautiful sandy beach, surrounded by pine forests.
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