Kemer: Mediterranean Unseen
If you think Kemer is merely a seaside escape, you’re missing the whole story. This Mediterranean town is packed with ancient trails, mythological stories, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 👀
Thousands of years ago, the streams born in the Taurus Mountains eroded the rocks in their desire to reach the Mediterranean Sea. Over centuries, shady gorges, cool ponds and a deep valley emerged. As Lao Tzu once said, "The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world". This is exactly how Göynük Canyon was formed.
But there’s more than water echoing off the canyon walls today. Some say you can still hear the laughter of Naiads—the fresh-water nymphs of Greek mythology. They’d either protect you from danger or lure you into their enchanted world with their beauty and joy.
Göynük Canyon sits in the Kemer district of Antalya, inside the Beydağları Coastal National Park. Beyond its wild beauty, it holds a piece of history too: a stretch of the ancient Lycian Way runs right through it. This legendary 500-mile trail weaves from Fethiye to Antalya, offering a hike through time itself.
Alexander the Great on the Streets of Phaselis…
Back in antiquity, this region was called Lycia. Kemer marks its eastern tip, home to ancient cities like Idyros, Phaselis, and Olympos. In fact, Phaselis was such a crucial port that none other than Alexander the Great spent a winter here after taking it from the Persians.
Legend has it, his soldiers fell ill during their stay. When locals asked what they’d been eating, the answer came: meat roasted on sticks. But the “sticks”, it turns out, were oleander branches. Beautiful, yes but poisonous. There is even a local phrase “eat the root of the oleander,” typically said by Turkish mothers to children who complain about their food. ☺️
In Kemer, ancient stones, pine-covered mountains, and the sea all whisper stories to the wind. Some have already been heard. Others still wait patiently.
Your Free Kemer Audio Tour is Here!
[Sponsored by Akra Kemer Hotel✨]
If your path leads you to Kemer, you won’t need to wonder where to stay.
Since 2013, Akra Kemer has been blending luxury with comfort to create unforgettable vacations. With chic, modern rooms, a range of à la carte dining options, and a vibrant open buffet, it's more than just a place to rest; it’s an experience.
Whether you’re travelling solo or with your family, the resort has everything covered: indoor and outdoor pools, activities for all ages, and perhaps best of all, a Blue Flag beach where the Mediterranean Sea welcomes you. And yes, it’s open year-round.✨
A tip for you: Even if you’re not planning a trip to Kemer right now, claim your free audio tour while it’s still available. It’ll stay in your account for whenever you’re ready. 😉
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