Icmeler is a resort located on the south west coast of Turkey, near to the popular city of Marmaris.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
Flying to Turkey from the UK takes around four hours so it is a popular destination for holiday makers who want sun, sea and sand almost on their doorstep.
This means that Icmeler is an ideal destination for all kinds of holidays, whether it is short mini breaks or longer, luxurious getaways.
Icmeler is seen as a quieter, relaxed alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby Marmaris. There is a lot to see and do in the area, and there are activities to cater to all age groups.
Icmeler is family friendly with plenty to keep kids and parents entertained, while culture vultures will enjoy the array of historical sites and natural beauty on offer. And, of course, there is the famous local nightlife which remains a firm favourite with younger holiday makers.
BEST TIME TO GO
Icmeler has a Mediterranean climate, which means the area enjoys warm summers and mild winters.
The winter months of November to April may still be mild in temperature but it is significantly cooler with a chance of rain. Most of the accommodation and amenities will also be closed.
The summer months of May to October are the best time to visit. Temperatures are high and the sun shines from very early to very late in the day.
This does mean that accommodation as well as eating and drinking out will be more expensive at this time of year, but as Icmeler is such a popular area there are still many bargains to be found whenever you choose to visit.
SIGHTS TO SEE
If you can bear to drag yourself away from the beautiful beach, you will find plenty to see in and around Icmeler.
Nature lovers will be in their element as Icmeler is surrounded by dense pine forests. Marmarmis National Park is definitely worth a visit for its wide range of wildlife to be seen on foot or by jeep safari, mountain bike, or horseback.
To learn more about the history of this area you can visit the Iyilik Kayaliklari Archaeological Park. Also known as 'The Rocks of Goodness', the park contains the remains of the ancient cities of Physkos and Amos. Highlights here include a remarkably well preserved amphitheatre.
Nearby Marmaris is also steeped in history, and there is no better way to spend a lazy afternoon than wandering around the winding cobbled streets of the old town. The buildings here date from the 16th century and house an array of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
You can also find Marmaris Castle in this area. This fortification dates from the 15th century and there has been one on the site since 3000BC. Here you can take a look at the archaeology museum to learn more about the history of Marmaris and Icmeler.
ACTIVITIES
Icmeler is a diverse location and offers activities to suit everybody.
The outstanding natural beauty of the area is begging to be explored, and you can choose from hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and jeep safaris.
As you will be spending a lot of time at the beach you can indulge in some water sports. Jet skiing, waterskiing, parasailing and the banana boat are all available in Icmeler. The area is also extremely popular for scuba diving, and there are many places to get lessons and equipment so you can get close to the huge amount of marine life in the area.
Boat cruises are another popular way to enjoy the stunning coastline, and you can either take a guided tour or hire your own. Excursions to secluded spots such as the Phosphorus Cave and Paradise Island are also available.
Shopping addicts will find the array of markets, bazaars and shopping malls ideal for rummaging through and finding a bargain. The Wednesday markets take place in surrounding villages and are well worth a visit, and for the best in Turkish culture you should head to the Grand Bazaar. This vast market is packed with stalls and vendors all jostling to sell you their goods. Haggle for the best bargains on clothing, souvenirs, rugs and local crafts.
Parents can keep the kids entertained with a day out at the Aqualand Waterpark. Kids will love the water slides and wave machines while you relax with a cocktail by the pool!
And for the ultimate in relaxation you can head to one of the many Turkish baths in the area. Here you can indulge in a massage, hot room, whirlpool, body scrub and sauna.
BEACHES
Icmeler Beach is extremely popular and tends to be quieter than many beaches in the area. The flat, sloping sands are especially popular with families.
Marmaris Beach is an artificial stretch of sand right next to all amenities such as toilets, showers, cafes and bars, and offers excellent water sports.
Gunluk Beach is something of a hidden gem and is much more secluded than the other beaches.
NIGHTLIFE
Icmeler has a wide range of bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs to choose from. The area is popular with the 18-30 crowd who hit the nightclubs that are to be found along the beach.
The Alibaba Jazz Bar, Brothers Fun Pub or Vagabundo are particularly popular in this area for live music and dancing.
Nearby Marmaris is the best place to head to for the party atmosphere of the nightclubs, and the beachfront is also extremely popular.
ACCOMMODATION
As Icmeler caters for such a broad range of holiday maker, the array of accommodation on offer reflects this too with everything ranging from budget apartments to luxurious resorts to be found.
The Demircioglu Apartments offer self catering accommodation right in the centre of Icmeler, so this is ideal for access to the best shops, restaurants and bars. The beach is still just 150m away.
The Dursun Apartments offer friendly, family run accommodation right next to the beach, while Sun Village Apartments can be found in the stunning Old Village and offer beautiful views in a historical setting.
Popular hotels on the beach include Blue Rainbow, Kontes Beach and Efendi Hotel. All offer flexible accommodation ideally situated not just for access to the beach but also very close to shops, bars and restaurants.
And for ultimate relaxation, check out the Aqua de Luxe Hotel. Located right on the beach, this all inclusive resort is set in lush tropical gardens and features a gym, outdoor swimming pool and tennis court.