Explore the varied shoreline and hinterland of the legendary Aegean coast. We'll take a boat ride beneath Lycian tombs, soak in thermal pools and explore stunning ancient cities, all against a backdrop of wonderful mountain scenery lapped by turquoise waters. Add in a healthy dose of relaxation and great food (including making a traditional Turkish dish yourself!) You'll be hard pushed to find a better way of spending a week in the eastern Mediterranean.

Riverboats, Mudbaths...
We start in Dalyan, a small town that shelters beneath ancient Lycian tombs. Here we take a boat to the crumbling Carian city of Caunos, the perfect setting for a game of gladiators! After time on the beach we head back to town and on to the local mudbaths where we cover ourselves in a body-pack of the local goo! Next we head inland to famous Pamukkale.

Ancient Cities
'Pamukkale' means 'cotton castle', an apt description of the white travertines of calcified pools that spill down the hillside, forming a series of water-filled basins. Here we swim in a thermal pool where original Roman columns lie beneath us - a remarkable experience! Next we head back to the sea to explore a coastal national park and - a highlight for many - legendary Ephesus, where we wander along its flagged streets, sit in the enormous theatre, and wonder at the justly famous Library of Celsus. Next, put on your apron as it is time to cook a traditional Turkish dish and then have the results for dinner that evening!

Beach Time!
We set off for beautiful Bafa Lake where we enjoy a barbecue lunch and later stop at a Turkish Bath with the option to sample a massage or scrubbing before reaching the Bodrum peninsula - beach time! Our laid-back base is located away from the crowded resorts, enabling us to swim and laze on the beach in peace. Alternatively take a local dolmus (minibus) to explore the region's villages or perhaps embark on rambles through the countryside. The larger town of Bodrum lies a few kilometres away and is home to the dramatic Castle of St Peter.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Dalyan. 2 Visit Caunos by riverboat; Iztuzu Beach and mudbaths. 3 Drive to Pamukkale; bath in thermal pool and see travertines. 4 Drive to Dilek Milli Park with optional walks in the National Park. 5 Visit Ephesus; cooking lesson to make a traditional Turkish dish. 6 Drive to Bafa Lake for barbecue lunch; continue to Bodrum Peninsula via a stop off at a Turkish Bath. 7 Free to relax. 8 End Dalaman airport.

Accommodation: 7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinner included.
Transport: Bus/Riverboat/On foot.
Comment: A week of variety, with a judicious mix of history, exploration and relaxation. Please bring walking shoes or lightweight trail boots for use when exploring ancient sites and the national park. Bear in mind it can be very hot between May and September.
Group: Approx. 16 to 20.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus drivers and local guides.
Trip Reference: FTA