Home to stunning scenery and an array of well-preserved archaeological sites, Dalaman is the ultimate destination for culture vultures. The Persians, Athenians, Ottomans, Romans and Lycians have all come and gone from the region, leaving behind relics and reminders of their cultural traditions and customs.
Today, visitors can explore the ancient Lycian Rock Tombs, discover Roman ruins and explore the local towns. Located between the spectacular verdant mountains and the stretching Lycian coastline, the Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa is the perfect base from which to explore the ancient wonders of Dalaman.
Rediscover the Lycians
Dalaman is home to an impressive number of Lycian Rock Tombs, which date back to the fourth century BC, and can be found scattered across the region. The tombs are truly magnificent, ooze grandeur and reflect the splendour and importance of the local royalty and aristocracy who were buried within them. Carved into limestone hillsides and accessed only by boat, the tombs of Kyra, Lydia and Lissia are unmissable sites of historic significance that will not disappoint.
Explore ancient remains
Visitors can take a boat up the peaceful Dalyan River, through the reed beds to the ancient city of Kaunos that dates back to the ninth century BC. Whilst there, culture vultures can explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis, the Roman Baths and the Byzantine Basilica, and imagine what it was like to live in a city that was romantically balanced on top of the cliff. Kaunos is also home to an ancient theatre that boasts both Hellenistic and Roman features that have been preserved throughout time. The theatre gives off a particularly atmospheric and impressive aura: surrounded by olive trees and offering an unbeatable view across the Dalyan wetlands, visitors are rewarded with an exciting insight into the ancient worlds that once resided there.
Weave through traditional markets
To experience a truly traditional side of Turkey, visitors to Dalaman can travel to the nearby town of Fethiye, located in the hills leading up to Mount Mendes, where they can experience the hustle and bustle of Turkish life. With a number of restaurants and vibrant markets on offer, visitors can peruse the colourful stalls for local delicacies, Turkish trinkets and souvenirs. Fethiye Museum is well worth a visit, boasting artefacts from throughout antiquity that testify to the many civilisations that have left their mark on the region over the years. From Fethiye, visitors can take the 12 island cruise around the private islands that are sprinkled along the stunning Agean coast, including Gemile Island with its Byzantine ruins.
The Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Resort & Spa located on a beautiful white-sand beach and boasting fantastic views of the surrounding mountains, is the ideal place to stay and enjoy Dalaman’s amazing history.
Rooms from £196 per person all-inclusive booked at www.hiltondalaman.com. Packages available from £703 from leading UK Tour operators in April 2019.
