Places to Visit in Koycegiz

Köyceğiz is a district located in the east of Muğla Province, in the southwest of the Aegean Region. Known for its natural beauties and historical riches, Köyceğiz is especially developed around Köyceğiz Lake and has close connections to other touristic spots in the region. Köyceğiz is known as a region offering a peaceful life intertwined with nature and is famous for its surrounding natural areas.

One of the hidden paradises of Muğla, Köyceğiz is a region waiting to be discovered with its natural beauties, historical riches and peaceful atmosphere. For those who want to get away from the chaos of city life and have a getaway in touch with nature, Köyceğiz offers a peaceful escape with its various places to visit.

From the calm waters of Lake Köyceğiz to the famous hot springs of Dalyan, this region offers many activities and places to attract the attention of all kinds of travelers. Whether you want to take a boat tour on a lake surrounded by natural beauty or embark on a historical journey among ancient ruins, Köyceğiz invites you to an unforgettable journey of discovery. You can easily reach this special region, which has a different beauty in every corner, by purchasing a flight ticket to Muğla and find many places to visit that will enrich your holiday. If you have purchased your tickets, here are the most beautiful places waiting for you to discover in Köyceğiz:

Koycegiz Lake

Lake Köyceğiz is a large and calm lake located in the Köyceğiz district of Muğla province. The lake attracts attention with both its natural beauty and the surrounding ecosystem. The clean and clear waters of the lake are ideal for swimming and boat trips. The surface of the lake is generally calm, creating impressive views with the reflection of the surrounding mountains.

The lake area is full of rich vegetation and various bird species. Köyceğiz Lake is a very attractive spot especially for those who want to do bird watching. Pine forests, olive groves and water plants increase the biodiversity in the lake. The villages around the lake offer the opportunity to experience traditional Turkish life. Organic agricultural products and local delicacies can be tasted in these villages.

Featured Events in 2024

Some of the events to be organized in Köyceğiz Lake and its surroundings as of 2024 may be:

• Köyceğiz Lake Festival : Various festivals held throughout the year celebrate the cultural richness of the region with local music, folk dances and handicraft exhibitions. At the festival, you can find the opportunity to taste local delicacies and participate in traditional events.
• Nature Walk and Photography Workshops : Nature walks and photography workshops organized around Köyceğiz Lake offer great opportunities for nature lovers and photographers. In the workshops, you can find the chance to discover the beauties of nature and learn photography techniques.
• Lakeside Picnic Days : Picnic days organized in the park areas around the lake offer an enjoyable activity for families and groups of friends. Picnics are usually enlivened with open-air music and various entertainments.

Scenic Walking Routes

Köyceğiz Lake and its surrounding natural beauties offer a variety of scenic routes for hiking lovers:

• Lakeside Walking Path: There are walking paths around the lake that run parallel to the lakeside. These paths are ideal for seeing the calm waters of the lake and the surrounding nature up close. During the walk, you can enjoy the views from different points of the lake.
• Sakar Pass Hiking Trail : Located around the lake, Sakar Pass is a hiking trail offering rich vegetation and magnificent views. This trail offers impressive views, especially during sunrise and sunset hours.
• Köyceğiz Lake Nature Trail : Located on the eastern shore of the lake, this trail allows you to explore both the lake views and the surrounding forest areas. You can encounter various natural beauties and bird watching along the trail.
• Tree-lined Walking Path : This walking path, which passes through the pine forests around the lake, offers the natural beauty and forest views of the lake. Along the way, you can reach points where the lake is seen from different angles.

Sultaniye Thermal Springs

Sultaniye Hot Springs, located in the Dalyan town of Köyceğiz district of Muğla, is famous for its healing waters fed by thermal springs. Sultaniye Hot Springs have been used for health and relaxation by many civilizations throughout history and are therefore considered an important cultural heritage.

The protection and restoration of these hot springs is of great importance both historically and touristically. Today, various studies are being carried out to protect the natural and historical values of the hot springs and to comply with modern health tourism standards.
This region has a long history and has been used by many civilizations for health and relaxation. The history of Sultaniye Thermal Springs dates back to the Roman period. During the Roman Empire, the thermal springs were used for health and treatment purposes.

During the Ottoman period, Sultaniye Thermal Springs served as an important health center for locals and visitors. The Ottomans used the thermal springs for health and social activities, and various social structures were built around the thermal springs. During this period, sultans and high-ranking state officials were among those who benefited from the thermal springs for health purposes.

Health Benefits of Healing Waters

Sultaniye Hot Springs is famous for its healing waters fed by thermal springs. These waters are rich in minerals and offer various health benefits:

• Skin Health: The hot waters of Sultaniye Thermal Springs help to remove toxins from the skin and contribute to the healing of skin problems. Mud baths can also help nourish and renew the skin.
• Rheumatism and Joint Pain : The hot waters in the spas are good for joint and muscle pain. The warmth of the thermal water can reduce tension in the muscles and joints and relieve pain.
• Circulatory System : The effect of hot water dilates the blood vessels and increases blood circulation. This can benefit cardiovascular health and support the general circulatory system.
• Stress and Fatigue : The relaxing atmosphere in hot springs can reduce mental and physical stress. The muscle-relaxing effect of hot water increases the overall feeling of relaxation and peace.
• Detox Effect : Thermal waters can help remove toxins from the body. Mud baths and hot water massages can support the detox process.

Kaunos Ancient City

The Ancient City of Kaunos is an ancient settlement located in the Dalyan district of Muğla province and has played an important role throughout history. Located at the intersection of the Aegean and Anatolian cultures, Kaunos offers a fascinating destination for both history enthusiasts and travelers with its impressive ruins and historical riches.

Important Buildings

• Theatre : One of the most impressive structures of Kaunos, the ancient theatre has a capacity of approximately 5,000 people. It is among the best preserved structures in the city and was used as one of the centers of cultural activities in ancient times.
• Rock Tombs : The rock tombs found on the rocky surfaces of Kaunos are important structures of the ancient period. In particular, the "Lycian Type" rock tombs belong to the prominent names of the city and are built with an impressive architectural style. These tombs reflect the beliefs and burial traditions of the ancient people.
• Agora : The Agora, the commercial and social life center of Kaunos, was built as part of the ancient city planning. It contains marketplaces, meeting areas and various public buildings.
• Baths : Located in the inner parts of the ancient city, the baths are among the typical structures of the Roman period. These structures are important for understanding the social life and hygiene habits of the ancient period.
• City Gates: The city gates of Kaunos were built as part of the ancient city's defense system. These gates served as important structures controlling entrances and exits to the city.

Recent archaeological excavations and restoration work in Kaunos contribute to a better understanding and preservation of the city’s historical structures. New discoveries include previously unknown details of ancient structures and clues about daily life.

The restoration projects carried out in the city are carried out with the aim of preserving ancient structures and presenting them to visitors. These projects include the theatre, agora and other important structures.

Visit Suggestions

Visiting in the Early Hours: Choosing to visit the Ancient City of Kaunos in the early hours provides an advantage in terms of both avoiding the crowds and exploring in the cooler hours of the day.

• Guided Tours: To learn more about the historical buildings and the city, it may be useful to join a guided tour. Guides can explain the history and important points of Kaunos in more depth.
• Photo Shoot : Don't forget to take photos to capture the impressive views of the ancient city and the details of its structures. Especially at sunset, the beauties of Kaunos become even more evident.
• Nature Walks : You can enjoy both the ancient city and the surrounding natural beauties by walking in the natural areas around Kaunos. Walks help you discover the natural texture of the region better.
• Local Delicacies : Tasting local cuisine in Dalyan and its surroundings, close to Kaunos, can make your visit more enjoyable. You can especially try fresh seafood and local dishes.

Round River

Located in the Köyceğiz district of Muğla, Yuvarlakçay is a region known for its natural beauty, calm atmosphere and refreshing streams. Yuvarlakçay is a popular nature getaway spot for both local and foreign visitors.

Yuvarlakçay takes its name from the round-shaped natural structures and streams around it. The region is covered with pine forests, clear water sources and rich vegetation. Especially, its refreshing and clean water is ideal for those who want to cool off in the summer months.

Yuvarlakçay offers an ideal place especially for those who like to picnic. Shady areas, wooden tables and barbecue areas provide a pleasant picnic experience for families and groups of friends.

Ekincik Bay

Located in the Dalyan district of Muğla, Ekincik Bay offers an attractive destination for sea tourism with its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. This quiet bay is a perfect option for those who want to both relax and enjoy the sea.

Ideal Spots and Beaches for Sea Tourism

Sea tourism is a relaxing and fun form of holiday where holidaymakers can enjoy the sea, sand and sun. There are many ideal spots and beaches for this type of holiday in different regions of Turkey. Here are some ideal spots and beaches that stand out for sea tourism:
Ekincik Bay Beach:

• Beach Features : Ekincik Bay Beach is famous for its fine sandy beach and clean sea. The beach is ideal for sea tourism and is especially suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
• Sea and Water Activities : Apart from swimming at the beach, activities such as canoeing, boat trips and underwater observation can also be done. The clean and clear sea is suitable for water sports.

Entrepreneurs and Cafe Restaurants:

• Food and Drink : You can taste local flavors in small restaurants and cafes by the sea around Ekincik Bay. You can enjoy your lunch or dinner in these places accompanied by the sea view.
• Refreshing Drinks : You can enjoy refreshing drinks at the cafes around the beach and relieve your tiredness after the sea.

Boat Tours:

• Yacht Tours and Bays : Ekincik Bay is also an ideal starting point for boat tours. You can rent a boat or join organized tours to explore other bays and beaches in the vicinity.
• Nature Observation : Boat tours offer an excellent opportunity to see the natural beauties of the region from the sea. During these tours, you can learn about other natural beauties and beaches around the bay.

Dalyan River

Dalyan, one of the popular holiday resorts of Muğla, is famous for its natural beauty, historical ruins and peaceful atmosphere. The Dalyan River is one of the most important natural elements of the region and is a perfect place for both a quiet stroll and various nature activities. To reach Dalyan, you will need to take a journey of approximately 1 hour from the center of Muğla.

There are many things to do on the Dalyan River. If you like to enrich your holidays with activities, here are the activities that can be done on the Dalyan River:

• Boat Tours : Boat tours on the Dalyan River are a great way to discover the beauty of the region. During the boat tours, you can see interesting places such as the historical Kaunos Ancient City, rock tombs and local flora.

Sunset boat tours provide stunning views of the surrounding river landscapes, ideal for a romantic evening stroll.

• Nature Walks and Bicycle Tours : The nature walks around the Dalyan River are suitable for both beginners and experienced walkers. On the trails, you can enjoy the natural beauties around the river.

You can rent a bike in the area and explore the area around the river. Bike tours allow you to visit the natural and historical points of the region more quickly and comfortably.

• Fishing : Dalyan River is an ideal place for those who love fishing. There are various freshwater fish in the river. It offers suitable conditions for both amateur and professional fishermen.
• Discovering Rock Tombs : The rock tombs located on the edge of the river are among the important structures from ancient times. You can use boat tours to see these tombs. The rock tombs shed light on Dalyan's historical past.
• Dalyan Beach and Iztuzu Beach : Located at the mouth of the Dalyan River, Iztuzu Beach is famous for its clean sea and wide sandy beach. It is an ideal beach for those who want to enjoy the sea. It is also known as the breeding ground of the caretta caretta sea turtles, so there are protection measures on the beach.

Iztuzu Beach

Located in the Dalyan district of Muğla province, İztuzu Beach is one of the most famous and protected beaches in Turkey. İztuzu Beach is an ideal destination for those who want to have a seaside holiday with its natural beauty and calm atmosphere. Known as the habitat of the Caretta Caretta turtles, this beach offers a pleasant holiday surrounded by nature. You can visit İztuzu Beach to enjoy the sea and explore the beauties of the region with nature walks.

Iztuzu Beach is a natural sand beach of approximately 4.5 kilometers in length. This length offers a wide area on the beach and allows holidaymakers to sunbathe and swim comfortably. There are also different activities and sports you can do on this beach:

• Swimming : The clean and shallow sea of the beach is suitable for swimming and water enjoyment. You can enjoy the sea especially in the summer months.
• Sunbathing : The long and wide beach area provides ample space for those who want to sunbathe. It is also possible to rent sun loungers and umbrellas.

• Canoeing and Kayaking : At Iztuzu Beach, it is possible to do water sports such as canoeing and kayaking in the sea. These activities are ideal for discovering the natural beauties of the beach from the water.
• Swimming and Pedalo : There are various water sports equipment rental opportunities around the beach. You can explore the area around the beach by renting a pedalo.

• Natural Walking Trails : You can explore the rich flora and fauna of the region by walking on the natural trails around the beach. The walks at sunrise and sunset are especially enjoyable.

• Landscape Photos : The wide sandy beach, clean sea and surrounding natural beauties provide a perfect environment for photographers. You can get impressive views especially at sunrise and sunset.

Nesting Area of Caretta Carettas

Iztuzu Beach is known as the breeding ground of the Caretta Caretta sea turtles. During the summer months, certain areas of the beach are protected during the egg-laying period of the Caretta Caretta turtles. During this period, it is forbidden to enter these areas of the beach and it is important to pay attention to the protected areas. You can see the life cycle of these magnificent turtles up close with observation tours organized during certain periods.

Koycegiz Forests

Köyceğiz district of Muğla province is famous for its natural beauty and rich ecosystem. The forested areas of the region are an ideal escape for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Köyceğiz forests attract attention with their unique flora and fauna, hiking trails and peaceful atmosphere.

Köyceğiz forests are home to a rich flora and a variety of animal species. The forests in the region are covered with various tree species such as oak, pine, juniper and olive trees. In addition, forest plants and bird species are also part of this ecosystem.

There are many hiking and biking trails in the forests of Köyceğiz. These trails are suitable for both beginners and experienced travelers. Walks in the forest are a great way to discover the natural beauty of the area.

There are various areas in the Köyceğiz forests where you can camp. Suitable areas for tent camping or caravan camping are an ideal option for those who want to be alone with nature.

Agla Plateau

Agla, one of the villages of Muğla, is a plateau famous for its natural beauty and calm atmosphere. Agla Plateau, an attractive destination for nature lovers in both summer and winter, offers many beauties waiting to be discovered. This high-altitude region is surrounded by vast forests, lush meadows and clear streams. The mountains and valleys surrounding the plateau offer impressive views.

The plateau has a cool climate thanks to its high altitude. Even in the summer months, it is cool, making it an ideal place for those who want to escape the summer heat. In the winter, it offers a beautiful winter holiday experience with snow-covered landscapes.

Ağla Yaylası is full of natural hiking trails. These trails are suitable for both beginner hikers and experienced travelers. Ağla Yaylası is a perfect place for those who want to camp in tents. You can explore the surroundings of the plateau with a mountain bike. Natural trails and mountain roads are suitable for cycling. You can buy fresh dairy products, natural honey and local agricultural products from the villages in the region.

Dalyan Mud Baths

Dalyan town of Muğla province is famous not only for its historical and natural beauties but also for its mud baths. Mud baths in Dalyan are known as a natural treatment method that provides many benefits in terms of both health and beauty.
Dalyan mud baths are baths where special mud obtained from natural mud sources in the region is used. Mud is rich in minerals and nutrients and plays an important role in skin care and health treatment. Mud baths are usually applied in hot water pools and offer benefits such as relaxation and detoxification.

• Skin Cleansing : Mud helps to cleanse the skin deeply. The minerals it contains cleanse the pores of the skin and remove dirt.

• Skin Rejuvenation : Mud baths make the skin look more vibrant and younger. It helps to remove dead skin cells and improves skin texture.

• Muscle Relaxation : A hot mud bath relaxes the muscles and reduces muscle pain. It supports muscle recovery, especially after sports.
• Joint Health : The minerals in the mud can help relieve joint pain. It can reduce joint inflammation and pain.

• Toxin Removal : Mud baths help the skin to remove toxins. It supports the removal of toxins from the skin's pores and contributes to overall body detoxification.

• Mental Relaxation : A hot mud bath provides mental relaxation and reduces stress. The peace provided by the mud bath allows you to relax and reduce your stress level.

Dalyan Mud Baths Application

Dalyan mud baths offer many benefits in terms of both health and beauty. You can visit Dalyan to experience the positive effects of natural mud on your skin and find a chance to relax and enjoy this special experience.
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Mud Application :

• Applying Mud : It is applied by applying mud to the body. It is usually spread all over the body and waited for it to dry. After the mud dries, it is cleaned with hot water.
• Face Mask : Mud can be used not only on the body but also on the face. It helps cleanse and revitalize the pores on the skin.

Hot Water Bath :

• After Mud : After the mud bath, a hot water bath is usually taken. This stage softens the skin and allows the effect of the mud to be felt better.

Rest Areas :

• Relaxation Areas : After the mud bath, there are relaxation and resting areas. You can relax in these areas and feel the full effect of the mud and hot water.

Dalyan mud baths maintain their popularity in 2024. This natural beauty, frequently visited by both local and foreign tourists, attracts attention with both its health benefits and unique experience.

As in every year, some innovations and arrangements have been made in Dalyan mud baths in 2024. These innovations include more comfortable waiting areas, shower facilities and environmental arrangements. In addition, various events are organized to provide a better experience for visitors.