Dalyan is a town in south west Turkey, located near to the bustling resorts of Marmaris and Fethiye.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
Flight times to Turkey from the UK are around four hours, so Dalyan is ideal for even a short trip. Most holiday makers choose to stay for either a week or a fortnight â" and sometimes longer!
The range of accommodation, sights to see, and activities that are on offer mean that all types of holiday makers come here â" whether it is younger people looking to soak up the sun or families looking for a stress free getaway, there is something for everybody in Dalyan.
BEST TIME TO GO
Dalyan enjoys a Mediterranean climate so experiences fairly good weather all year round.
However, temperatures in the winter months of November to April are significantly cooler and there is a chance of rain. There are also less tourists spots and accommodation open at this time of year.
Most people choose to travel to Dalyan in the summer months of May to October. At this time you will enjoy the best of the weather and all the activities that the area has to offer.
Prices are usually higher in the summer months, but if you travel in May or October then you are more likely to find better deals.
SIGHTS TO SEE
There are many historical sites to visit around Dalyan.
The ancient city of Caunos is believed to date from 3000BC and features some remarkably well preserved remains, including city walls, four temples, an agora, baths and a large amphitheatre.
The Lycian Rock Tombs are quite a sight to behold as these are burial chambers for the ancient Kings of Caunos, carved into the side of a cliff.
If you catch a boat across the lake you can visit the town of Koycegiz, where there is an excellent market where you can haggle for some bargains!
Nearby Pamukkale features natural mud baths that are said to be extremely good for your skin â" take a dip in the white clay and see if you donât come out glowing!
ACTIVITIES
Dalyan is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and there are many ways to explore the wildlife in the area.
Jeep safaris are available for a dayâs tour. Several different agencies offer these tours and they usually include a visit to a mosque, a swim in the lake, a drive through the hills and a lunch break.
For those that prefer a more rugged way to enjoy the scenery, you can go hiking or mountain biking on one of the many trails in the area.
Boat trips are an especially popular way to enjoy the beautiful coastline, and water sports such as scuba diving and paragliding are available.
Of course, no visit to Turkey would be complete without a visit to a traditional Hamam, or Turkish bath. These are located in Dalyan, Ortaca and Dalaman.
BEACHES
Though Dalyan itself is a couple of miles inland, you are still within easy reach of a number of beaches â" whether it is by car or by a dolmus.
Iztuzu Beach, or Turtle Beach, is the most popular in the area. At 5km (2.5 miles) long, there is plenty of room for everybody to find space to stretch out on the sand. The beach got its name as this is where turtles come ashore to lay eggs once a year.
Ekincik Bay is situated in a beautiful bay with some interesting rock formations. Because of this it is popular for snorkelling and scuba diving, and it is accessible with a boat trip from Dalyan.
Asi Bay is a very secluded beach only accessible by a very rough road, so probably best done as part of a jeep safari. Here you can relax in the peaceful surroundings and as the water is calm and clear, you can also indulge in some snorkelling.
Sarigerme Beach is further away but is part of a much bigger resort. This is perfect for families as you will find plenty of amenities nearby such as toilets, showers, shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. There is even a zoo located nearby!
And Sarsala Cove provides the ultimate in natural beauty, being overlooked by pine covered mountains and facing clear blue waters.
NIGHTLIFE
Evenings are great in Dalyan as there is a wide range of entertainment to choose from.
There is an abundance of restaurants serving all types of local and international cuisine. Turkish lam is very famous, as is an authentic kebap.
Eating on the shores of the lake is a particularly popular way to enjoy an evening meal, with restaurants including Ceyhan, Golbasi and Okyanus.
Bars range from quiet and sophisticated to the more raucous venues that younger people choose before heading to a nightclub!
The main bars in Dalyan are located in one main strip for ease of access. Venues include the Delta Bar, Pop In Club, Sofra Bar, and the Club Sweet.
ACCOMMODATION
Every type of accommodation is typically to be found in Dalyan.
Hotel Calypso offers stunning views of the Olemez Mountains and Dalyan River, located just five minutes from the town centre. The on-site restaurant offers a mix of Turkish and international food, and there is a poolside bar.
Gizaldi Apart Hotel offers self catering apartments, all of which have fitted kitchens, situated just 300m from the centre of Dalyan. There is also a swimming pool and separate kidsâ pool â" perfect for families!
The Binkaya Hotel is right next to Dalyan River and is ideally situated for those wanting to explore the ancient city of Caunos and the Rock Tombs. There is a bar and restaurant on-site which often stages entertainment such as belly dancing.
And the Portakal Hotel is set in landscaped gardens on the banks of Dalyan River. Here you can enjoy the restaurant, which serves traditional Turkish food, as well as drinks and cocktails at the outdoor pool bar.