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Travel to Ortaca (Dalaman)

 
 
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Ortaca (Dalaman), Turkey

Ortaca is the name of a town and district in Mugla province, its name meaning "the town in the middle." It comprises the holiday resort towns of Dalyan and Sarigerme, both within easy driving distance of Dalaman Airport, unlike Marmaris and Fethiye (which are both at least a 1 hour drive away). Neither Dalyan nor Sarigerme are as built-up as Marmaris which is why they attract tourists looking for a more relaxed holiday atmosphere.

pros

  •  The natural beauty of the region
  •  The historical sites
  •  The friendly locals and relaxed ambiance

cons

  •  The beaches are not as beautiful as others in neighbouring regions
  •  Can be difficult to find authentic Turkish restaurants
  •  No real shopping or nightlife options nearby

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Visit Ortaca (Dalaman)

  • To see

    Don't miss the ruins of the ancient city of Caunos, on the riverside facing Dalyan. The most important monuments are the acropolis surrounded by city walls, the theatre, the agora, the temples and tombs. Caunos was founded around the 9th century BC and features excellent examples of ancient Lycian architecture.

    To do

    In Dalyan, begin with a leisurely boat cruise along the Dalyan River to see the Lycian tombs built into the nearby cliffs (dating back to 400BC), Koycegiz Lake, the mud baths and Iztuzu Beach, a breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. Also think about visiting the markets at Koycegiz; the biggest bazaar in the region.

    To think about

    It's a good idea to rent a car so you can explore as much of the region as possible. While there are dolmus (the local minibuses, very cheap) these will only get you so far.
  • To avoid

    Avoid any restaurants that display pictures of their food outside alongside claims they serve "traditional Turkish food." Probably not the most authentic dining experience you can have...

    To try

    Turkish food is simply delicious and despite an incorrect greasy kebab image, Turkish cuisine is actually fresh and healthy too. Start with a platter of hot and cold meze, (an assortment of appetisers which can include dolma stuffed vine leaves, humus or stuffed aubergines), before sampling a grilled meat or fish dish accompanied by some kisir - a side salad of fine-ground bulgur, tomato, parsley, onion, garlic and lots of spices. Finish the meal with a sugary sweet Turkish dessert such as baklava, sutlac rice pudding, or helva cilik (a rich, sweet paste with crushed sesame seeds, nuts, sugar and honey). If all of that is too sweet, try the delicious cheese on offer such as the white variety known as beyaz peynir (like Greek feta) or the very salty hellim (halloumi). Meanwhile, a popular snack is the gozleme, a savoury pancake stuffed with meat, cheese and/or vegetables such as spinach... Afiyet olsun! ("Enjoy your meal" in Turkish).

    To bring back

    Of course you can always bring some lokum (Turkish Delight) or apple tea to share with the folks back home, but why not pick up a beautiful handicraft such as a hand-painted ceramic item for your home? For those with the means, there are some exquisite kilims(tapestry woven carpets) on sale. But, bargain, bargain, bargain!

Country guide

Hotels reviews by the Easyexperts

Dalaman: Top hotels on the Turquoise Coast

Dalaman: Top hotels on the Turquoise Coast

Dalaman is fast becoming one of the Turkish coast's hottest holiday spots and we've toured the likes of Marmaris, Fethiye, Olu Deniz, Icmeler and Dalyan to scope out the best hotels in the region. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife and year-round sunshine (plus its budget-friendly credentials) ...

Ortaca (Dalaman) in pictures

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  • Club Alla Turca
  • Hilton Dalaman Resort and Spa
  • Dalyan Resort
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Ortaca (Dalaman) in pictures

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    Dalyan Resort
    Score 7/10
    Photo of Ms Globetrotter

    Ms Globetrotter 02/08/2011 : "One of our faves in the Dalaman region, a haven of peace and tranquility"

    Orient Express
    Score 7/10
    Photo of susan humphries

    susan humphries 11/03/2011 : "Fabulous welcome by friendly staff. Rooms small but functional and small The food was good . indoor Pool and cental location for sights. "

    Divan Palmira
    Score 8/10
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    Shell Bell 28/06/2010 : "Gorgeous hideaway in a chic but peaceful area of Bodrum. Personalised service and delicious food. Welcome to "

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