easyJet holidays at Gatwick Airport: Turkey town with Turtle Beach is a hidden gem – Laura Nightingale

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Just got back from 10 days in Turkey and it was pure bliss. It was our first post coronavirus pandemic vacation, and I’m sure I speak for many people reading this; it was way late.

After a flight cancellation with Turkish Airlines and a lot of worry and frustration, we finally hopped on an easyJet flight from Gatwick airport to start our summer vacation. We spent the first five days in the tourist hotspot of Marmaris, a 90 minute drive from Dalaman airport.

The Mediterranean resort town along the Turkish Riviera (also known as the Turquoise Coast) is known for its vibrant nightlife as well as its pine-forested mountains and clear waters. We stayed at Labranda Mares Marmaris right on the beachfront and didn’t have to lift a finger.

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The all inclusive hotel with jetties, sun decks and pool was lovely. There were shows, a traditional Turkish hammam, jet skiing and various restaurants where we ate our weight in baklava, meat skewers and meze.

We spent the second part of our vacation in a lesser known destination: Dalyan. Located on the scenic Dalyan River, just inland from the southwest coast of Turkey, it was only 30 minutes from the airport and was a completely different experience from Marmaris.



Marmaris in Turkey is a great family vacation destination

We stayed in a villa and discovered many hidden gems including a beautiful white sand beach with protected nesting sites for loggerhead turtles. Visitors can simply hop on a river boat that connects the town to Iztuzu Beach along a beautiful winding passage.

The half hour walk on the river, lined with tall reeds and glorious 30C sunshine, was idyllic and we spotted plenty of wildlife on the way to the beach, including the majestic turtles. Considering it was school holidays, the long, elegant coastline was practically empty and it was very special.

The strip of golden sand was about 4 km long and narrow, separating the crystal clear water from a lagoon. There was a small cafe and public toilets, as well as a small hospital where poorly cared for marine reptiles were treated.

The beach was not touristy, sticky or built up. Instead it gave us a wonderful slice of nature, peace and quiet. Another hidden gem across the river was the ruined ancient city of Kaunos with Lycian rock tombs and the remains of a theatre.



Turkey
Dalyan in Turkey is full of hidden gems to explore

On our beach trip, we visited a volcanic lake surrounded by views of ruins where we swam in ultra-warm waters. We jumped off the boat into the turquoise lake and it was like a bath. It upset me.

If you’re looking for a family vacation abroad this summer (I’m now looking for my second trip), Dalyan has it all and more. It was my first time to Turkey and I would definitely go back.

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