Turkish Delights with Star Clippers
20th April 2018
Turkey is renowned by some as being the final frontier of the Mediterranean. This beautiful nation is home to a vast array of warm and inviting beaches, charming towns and mesmerising historic landmarks that will lead you on a journey of intrigue. Throughout the summer season of 2018, that is exactly what you will be able to enjoy aboard selected Star Clippers sailings.
A Mediterranean sailing experience with Star Clippers is regarded as a fantastic opportunity to explore the Greek Islands, but selected sailings also open the gateway to the delights of Turkey. This week, we take a look at some of the impressive sights you will be able to visit on board selected Eastern Mediterranean sailings.
Kusadasi (Ephesus)
Kusadasi is renowned as one of Turkey’s most popular cruise ports, due to its abundance of shops to peruse and bars in which to relax. However, many people use Kusadasi as a gateway to the impressive archaeological site of Ephesus.
This amazing site dates back to the ancient Greek era and is home to a series of impressive landmarks including the 1,500-seat Odeion, the Basilica and the Prytaneion. One of the most interesting landmarks, however, is the remains of the Temple of Artemis. Although it may not look like much today, it was – prior to the 5th century AD – renowned for being one of the seven ancient wonders of the world and is still regarded as impressive piece of Greek architecture today.
Bodrum
Another of the ancient wonders of the world can be found in the Turkish town of Bodrum, which is situated on the southern Aegean coast. The ancient city of Halikarnassus – home to the famed Mausoleum of Halikarnassus which was built at some point after 353 BCE – sadly suffered a similar fate to the Temple of Artemis following successive earthquakes throughout the Middle Ages.
Other impressive landmarks – which are still standing – including Bodrum Castle, which was built in the 15th century by the knights of Hospitalier. It is one of the best-preserved monuments from the medieval era and those who make the effort to climb to the top are rewarded with amazing views over the town. Alternatively, you can enjoy the historical backdrop from the comfort of the expansive beach, which offers waters that are perfect for swimming.
Dalyan River
You’d be forgiven for thinking you were somewhere a little closer to home during your time on Turkey’s Dalyan River. This river is teeming with fishes and surrounded by a lush marshy delta that even provides a nesting home for native endangered Caretta loggerhead turtles, which hatch during the spring. On the surrounding riverbanks, you will be able to see the Lycian city of Caunos, which is renowned for its ruins of a former basilica and fortifications.
With temperatures beginning to warm up across the Mediterranean, there is no better time to start considering your next holiday escape. The tall ships of the Star Clippers fleet offer a traditional sailing experience and an opportunity to travel to destinations that are considered to be inaccessible to larger vessels.
For more information or to make a booking, contact our friendly sales team via the freephone number above or chat to an advisor online.
