Once a small fishing village, Altinkum is now a popular beach resort on the Aegean coast of Turkey. It offers a relaxed base for exploring the bird-filled shores of Lake Bafa and the archaeological sites of Didim and Miletus and is a short boat ride from the Greek holiday islands of Kos, Samos and Rhodes.
Things to do in Altinkum
For a day on the sand, head to the golden sweep of Altinkum Beach, which is ideal for swimming and relaxing beneath an umbrella. It’s backed by a breezy promenade and excellent restaurants where you can dine throughout the day, as well as a sculpture of the sea god, Poseidon. A short stroll from Altinkum Beach is the town’s buzzing new marina with its luxury stores.
Altinkum makes an ideal base for discovering the sights of Didim, such as the 2,300-year-old Temple of Apollo. Alternatively, explore the archaeological remains of Miletus, an ancient city that encompasses the ruins of a Byzantine basilica, an Ottoman mosque and a magnificent theatre.
A short drive inland from Altinkum is Lake Bafa, which was once connected to the Aegean Sea. It’s now protected within Lake Bafa Nature Park, an important bird sanctuary that provides a resting point for migratory species. Stretch your legs along one of the walking trails that wind through the fringing pine trees and olive groves while keeping your eyes peeled for cormorants, pelicans and sea eagles.
Getting around Altinkum
Altinkum is around 10 minutes’ drive from Didim and two hours from Izmir. Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Altinkum and exploring the surrounding area.