Marmaris

Marmaris is built on the Ancient site of Phykos, so, little of the old town remains; it was a Carion city that dates back to 3500BC. Marmaris was once a sleepy fishing village that is located on a natural harbour, where Lord Nelson Co ordinated his attack on the French. Marmaris has been under the control of many cultures including the Egyptians, Ionians, Dorians and Romans, it finally became a part of the Ottoman Empire in 1425. There are many Ottoman remains from Suleyman, the Magnificent and a castle which Suleyman was said to have disliked once finished and a Caravanserai from the 16th cent as well as the Mosque of Ibraham Agha which dates to 1789.

Marmaris is well known for its natural beautiness, pine clad mountains and a fantastic coastlines full of pretty coves and inlets, like Icmeler, Kumlubuk, Turunc, and Kadirga. There is also a sea cavern nearby that is Phosphorescent called Fosforlu. Marmaris has many tours to nearby resorts such as Bodrum, Caunos, Pamukkale, Ephesus and Fethiye. It is a modern town well geared to cater for the tourists. There are many of restaurants, bars, shops and good nightlife, as well as excellent opportunities and locations for Watersports and sunbathing. There is also an old quarter here where traditional Turkish life can still be seen at the winding cobbled streets. Shopping in Marmaris is good bargain. Some of the local preferable and traditional items worth buying are Leather and Suede, Onyx and Textiles and local produce of Pine scented Honey. Marmaris has a long sand and shingle beach. It has one of the best marinas in Turkey. You may also take the famous blue Voyage cruise along the Aegean, from here, as Marmaris is a yachting haven.

Things to see in Marmaris

The Ataturk Park.

This is located in the east of Marmaris. Here is a wonderful beach suitable for swimming. The area is famous for its Frankincense trees, which give off a beautiful aroma.

Fortress Museum

This Small Castle is an Archaeological Musuem; it was restored between 1980-1990 and opened in 1991. Suleyman, the Magnificent had this castle built in time of the Rhodian campaign. Here Suleyman assembled 200,000 troops for the attack and siege of Rhodes in 1522. Most of the exhibits here are of a nautical nature as well as Roman and Byzantine earthen ware and ornaments. There is an ethnographical section where various objects from the Ottoman period are exhibited.

Icmeler.

This town is approximately 8 km along the coast from Marmaris. It is possible to get a Dolmus which is a common public transportation. Icmeler, once a small sleepy fishing village, is now a popular destination for holiday makers. There is a beach here backed by lush gardens with numerous restaurants where you can relax.

Turunc

Turunc, hidden behind hills, is a bay surrounded by breathtaking beauty. It has been a place to settle since Hellenistic time. Turunc can be reached by a relaxing boat trip along the fantastic coast which Marmaris is blessed with. The Bay of Turunc has a good beach with water ideal for swimming. Restaurants and bars are to be found here among the pretty scenery and relaxing atmosphere.

Orhaniye and Selimiye.

These two villages are located 10 and 20 km away from Marmaris. The village of Orhaniye is set in a beautiful bay. You either spend a relaxing day in this natural setting or head for the Carpet weaving centre where you will get an in depth account of this famous craft. Selimiye is also set in a bay; there are also a few ancient ruins to be seen here. Both villages are ideal opportunities to see beautiful Turkey in which there is no touristical activity, far from the entertaining athmosphere of Marmaris.