Kemer has come a long way in a short time. As recently as the 1980s, it was a village famed for its citrus fruits and fishing boats. But its prime location on the Gulf of Antalya and in the shadow of the Taurus Mountains has seen this hidden gem polished into a world-class destination. It boasts many services tailored to holidaymakers with the added bonus of unspoiled natural beauty. You can glide through clouds on the Olympos cable car to get to the top of Mount Tahtali, discover romantic archaeological sites, shop in bazaars and explore underwater wrecks. With so many things to do, Kemer is the ideal destination for your next trip.
The Six Best Things to in Kemer
1. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Tahtali
Also known by its ancient name of Mount Olympos, Tahtali is one of the main peaks of the Taurus Mountains. Standing at 2,366 metres above sea level, which is just 10km away, it’s a steep climb to the summit. You can put your fitness to the test by trekking to the top or you can take the easy route up on the Olympos Teleferik cable car, climbing 1,639 metres in just 10 minutes. The cable car is one of the longest of its kind in the world and, once at the summit, the views over Beydağları Coastal National Park are spectacular. You might also spot paragliders up here, as it’s a popular location for them. There are also restaurants at the summit, so a chance for you to savour some local delicacies as well as the views.
2. Find the perfect souvenir in the Kemer bazaar
The district's main bazaar is the ideal destination for stocking up on souvenirs to take home. You’ll find almost anything you can think of, from handicraft stalls to jewellers, from tasty Turkish delights to local coffee, from classic carpets to clothing of all kinds. On certain days of the week, the bazaar has an outdoor area. This is where the scents and sounds of Turkey come into their own. Stallholders hawk spices, fresh fruit and vegetables and the tangiest dried fruits. Irresistible.
3. Discover the history of ancient Phaselis
One of the best ways to uncover the Kemer district’s past is by visiting the ruins of ancient Phaselis. Founded by the Greeks 690 BC, it became the region’s main commercial port in antiquity. It then passed into the hands of the Persians before the Romans took control. During an excursion to this archaeological site, you can stroll among the Roman and Byzantine ruins, while the three former quays have been transformed into beaches, where you can cool off right next to the relics of the ancient city. The site is quite extensive, so plan to spend at least a couple of hours there. And, as if couldn’t get any more beautiful, the ruins are bang in the middle of a national park.
4. Relax with a cruise on Lake Karacaören
An ideal day trip for the whole family. If you want to get away from the coast for a while and discover the natural beauty of the hinterland, a cruise on Lake Karacaören is the experience you’re looking for. Set in a beautiful mountain landscape, the lake is a couple of hours’ drive from Kemer and is particularly popular with anglers. Its clean and clear waters are perfect for snorkelling. The forest that surrounds it is wild and forms a canyon covered in thick vegetation. To end the day in style, check out the nearby Karatas Cave, a place steeped in legend and whose muds are said to have healing properties.
5. Go on an adventure to Pamukkale
The geological formation of Pamukale is one of the spectacular sites in all of Turkey. The name means ‘Cotton Castle’ and even this fairytale-sounding inventiveness doesn’t do it justice. It’s one half of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the other being the adjacent ruins of ancient Hierapolis. Pamukkale is a terraced limestone hill made up of layers of semi-circular natural pools, which were formed due to the outflow of thermal water. It’s one of those attractions that simply cannot be explained – you have to see it. Hierapolis, meanwhile, boasts a well-preserved Roman theatre, a necropolis and a Byzantine church.
6. Dive into the Mediterranean Sea
One of Kemer’s main attractions is its crystalline sea, with luxuriant flora and exotic fauna. That’s why it’s the ideal destination for snorkelling and diving. The area has numerous shipwrecks, such as the MS PARIS II, which dates from World War I. Kemer also specialises in cruises in pirate-style boats. These are great for discovering the surrounding coastline. Finally, enjoy swim at Kemer’s most beautiful beaches. Kiris, near the city centre, Camyuva, Tekirova and Cirali are just some of the ones to visit.
