Lycia and the Turquoise Coast

The Turquoise Coast is the region of southwest Turkey between Marmaris and Fethiye, so-called because of the beautiful azure blue of its waters. Populated since prehistoric times, it is characterised by bays, beaches and olive groves and is famous for its hot springs, rock tombs and ancient Lycian ruins.

Thanks to strict environmental protection laws it is now one of the last remaining unspoilt stretches of the Mediterranean. With growing eco-tourism from the loggerhead turtles that nest on its pristine beaches, Turkey is keen to keep it that way.Unlike much of the Mediterranean, each town on the Turquoise Coast still retains its individual character and includes such picturesque towns as Koycegiz, Dalyan, Dalaman and Gocek.