Turkey is a land of contrasts where the traditional and the modern co-exist, and where the European and Asian influences are forever locked in a dance where both partners are trying to lead. The contrasts are also amply evident in the Turkish landscapes – from the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the cool blue Mediterranean waters. Rich in history, culture, delicious food and hospitality, Turkey is a terrific package deal.
While destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia and Antalya are well known, our contributors London-based Manish Mehta and Niccie Le Roux choose a different track and explore the Mediterranean seaside at Kalkan and Kas on the Lycian coast.
Kalkan, on Turkey’s southwestern coast, is a fishing village that has gone through a radical makeover as a seaside resort. While roof cafes, bars and seafood restaurants have set up shop on the promenade, Kalkan retains the sense of the traditional with its Ottoman Greek architecture and whitewashed houses with shuttered windows and cascading bougainvillea.
The Taurus mountains stand guard and keep a watchful eye on Kalkan and its pretty harbour. You can go diving, snorkelling and enjoy water sports here, apart from the joy of lazing around in the sun. 
To the east of the harbour is a pebbly beach called Kömürlük awarded a Blue Flag (for cleanliness). The crystal blue water shimmers invitingly, and you can also head to Kaputas, a 10-minute drive on the dolmus (the Turkish minibus). This sandy cove nestles at the foot of Kaputas gorge that just challenges you to go canyoning.
A traditional way to explore the coast is to hire a gulet which is a wooden Mediterranean-type Turkish yacht.
You can also take the minibus to Patara beach with its 12 kms of sand backed by dunes. Patara is also where endangered Loggerhead turtles come to lay their eggs.
Closer to Kalkan, about 30 minutes away, is the gorgeous Kas where you’ll find narrow winding streets lined with rustic wooden balconies and a well-preserved Greek amphitheatre where you can climb up to the top tier for views across the Mediterranean. This peaceful seaside resort is also known as the Land of Light… for rather obvious reasons!
You could also try tandem paragliding here for views of the harbour and the mountains and the scuba diving here is brilliant as well for the visibility is very high.
Getting there: Dalman is the closest airport (90 mins away by road) or fly to Antalya which is twice as far as Dalman.
The post Coastal Turkey in 15 Stunning Photos: Discover Kalkan and Kas appeared first on Ecophiles.