July is the peak of the summer season and also one of the most crowded times to visit Dalyan and the rest of Turkey. Temperatures are at their peak during this time of the year and when combined with the nearly dry conditions, there are plenty of reasons for visitors to flock to the region in the summer months. As a result, lines will be longer and prices may be higher, but it is a fun time to be around a lot of people from all over the world.
Vacationers will want to be sure to pack some lightweight clothes in order to combat the heat of the summer season. Clothes that will breathe easily and are light in colors are some of the best to bring along. The average daily temperature for this time of the year is a warm 27°C (81°F). Temperatures first thing in the morning will bottom out at an average of 20°C (68°F). With such a mild start to the day, it is important to have a hotel that offers air conditioning in all its rooms. Average afternoon highs are very warm with temperatures climbing to 34°C (94°F).
Sea surface temperatures are also some of the warmest of the year. Temperatures climb to 25°C (77°F) during this time of the year. With waters this warm, it is possible to participate in all the activities that the region offers.
There is plenty of sun to enjoy during the summer. The region experiences a year high of 14 hours of sunshine per day during the month. As a result, it is important to pack plenty of sunscreen while on holiday.
Rainfall is also limited during the month and is almost nonexistent. While rainfall amounts are higher than the previous month, it is still mostly dry. This time of the year sees approximately 9mm of precipitation spread over a period of just 7 days.
WHERE TO STAY
Tourists on a budget will appreciate all the amenities that are offered by the Sefak Apart Hotel for the money. While small, the hotel offers eight fully furnished apartments. Each comes with two bedrooms, a living room, bathroom and balcony. These apartments offer all the amenities of a high quality hotel including a spacious pool and terrace where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Dalyan Garden Pension is a small family run hotel that offers all the amenities of home. Opened in 2005, the hotel is consistently ranked as one of the best in the region and is a perfect choice for a July holiday. With just 10 rooms, there is plenty of privacy for the individual traveler or for a couple looking to get away. The hotel also features a pool, bar and garden for guests to enjoy.
Vacationers can't go wrong with a stay at Holiday Calbis. The hotel offers three pools including one for adults only as well as a breakfast buffet, bar and outdoor terrace to be taken advantage of in July. Guests can also take advantage of transportation to the centre of the city and rent mountain bikes to do a little individual exploring of the region. In case rain should strike, the hotel has a selection of 500 books to choose from and borrow as well as a TV room and free WiFi.
THINGS TO DO
Visiting the ancient rock tombs is a must for any visitor to Dalyan and with July bringing some of the hottest temperatures of the year, now is a great time to go. The tombs, which are the burial places of some of the Lycian kings of Caunos, are located just across the river from the main town.
There are two different types of tombs that can be seen; the first are very simple chambers cut into the rock face without much ornamentation and the second are the very elaborate, temple-type tombs that were at one time very ornately designed.
However, over the years, tomb robbers and souvenir seekers have decimated the majority of them. They are still interesting to see though, and of all of the tombs in the area, the Dalyan tombs are the best preserved.
Now that the sea temperatures are also warm, one great way to spend a day is by going on a sea kayaking adventure. These kayaks are built to head out into the rougher waters of the sea and all adventures are guided so they are completely safe. This is a fun adventure for the whole family.
HIT THE BEACH
A little drive down the road from Dalyan is Kabak Bay, Oludeniz. Known as one of the best beaches in the country, this is the perfect spot for those who want to go where the locals go and get away from it all. While the region is void of watersports and boat trips, the beach makes up for that with peace and quiet and the chance to just enjoy the surroundings. There are some nearby accommodations or it is an easy drive along the coast. With very little rainfall during this time of the year, now is the time to hit the beach and also enjoy an average of 14 hours of sunshine per day.
RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE
Those looking for an upscale, romantic night out will enjoy a dinner at the Four Seasons Dalyan. The staff is very well trained and can help any guest out with a dinner selection. The atmosphere is refined and more formal than some of the other restaurants in the region and guests will also enjoy the Turkish dancing that takes place on Thursday nights.
For a more casual, but still delicious meal, look no further than Yener's Place. Yener will greet each customer himself as they walk through the door before passing them off to a very accomplished wait staff. Guests will have a myriad of choices to look through with all dishes being expertly made and coming out of the kitchen in large portions.
Guests at Sunray Bar are not only treated to live music, but also some of the best views in the city. Guests can sit and enjoy a well-made cocktail while enjoying a view of the tombs for as long as they would like. Additionally, there is a dance floor for those who are looking for a little more action. This bar is friendly and safe and a definite must for those visiting the region.
