Kemer is not just a resort strip of hotels at the foot of the mountains, but also an ideal starting point for an in-depth exploration of the Turkish coast. Many tourists limit themselves to walks along the boardwalk or trips on a yacht, missing out on the opportunity to see the real, wild nature of the region in a rented car or their own transport. The roads here are designed to accommodate the challenging terrain, and every trip turns into a mini-adventure with views that will never be forgotten.
Choosing where to go from Kemer, it is worth considering not only the distance, but also the nature of driving, since serpentines require concentration. In this article, we will analyze the most picturesque routes, talk about the nuances of parking in popular places and draw up a plan for the ideal one-day voyage. A properly planned trip will allow you to avoid crowds of organized tourists and enjoy the silence of ancient ruins or the sound of mountain waterfalls.
Renting a car in this region is not so much a matter of convenience as it is a matter of necessity for a good rest. Availability of personal cars gives you the freedom to stop at any vantage point, take a photo and turn onto an unexpected dirt road leading to a secret cove. Below we will consider in detail the directions available even to beginners, and those that will require confident driving skills.
Olympos and Cirali: antiquity by the sea
The first and most obvious direction for those looking for where to go from Kemer, is the ancient city of Olympos and the neighboring village of Cirali. The distance to them is only about 30 kilometers to the south, and the road passes through picturesque pine forests. Here you will see not only the ruins of the Lycian period, but also the famous fires of the Chimera, which have been burning for centuries.
Parking in the Olympos area can be difficult during high season, so it's best to arrive early in the morning. The road to the city itself is sometimes narrow, but the surface is good. In Cirali you can stop by a long pebble beach where Caretta Caretta turtles nest, making this route especially attractive for families.
- ποΈ Visit the ruins of the ancient city and Hadrian's Gate, preserved from the 2nd century AD.
- π₯ Climb to the eternal lights of the Chimera (Yanartash) close to sunset for the best visual effect.
- ποΈ Relax on the cleanest Cirali beach, where the water is transparent and turquoise.
Take comfortable shoes with you for the climb to the Chimera lights - the path is rocky and steep in places, it will be uncomfortable to walk in flip-flops.
It is worth noting that entry into the territory of the archaeological park is paid, and the ticket offices accept both cash and cards. If you plan to stay until the evening to see the lights, make sure you have a flashlight as lighting on the trail is minimal. This is one of the most atmospheric routes that definitely needs to be included in your list.
Phaselis: Swimming Among the Ruins
Continuing south on the D400, a few minutes after Olympos you will reach the entrance to the Phaselis National Park. This is a unique place where historical monuments adjacent directly to the seashore. The ruins of an ancient port, amphitheater and aqueduct are scattered among the pine trees, and some of them can be reached by splashing in ankle-deep water.
The road to Phaselis is well paved, there will be no problems with navigation - follow the signs for Phaselis. Inside the park you can travel either on foot or on a small tourist train that runs between the main points of interest. There is ample parking for motorists, but it fills up quickly in high summer.
The main feature of Phaselis is the opportunity to combine a cultural program with a beach holiday. You can leave your luggage in the car or take the bare essentials with you to explore the three harbors of the ancient city. The water here is usually calm, which is ideal for children.
| Parameter | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Kemer | ~40 km | 30-40 minutes on the way |
| Road type | Highway D400 | Perfect coverage |
| Entrance ticket | Paid | Museum card valid |
| Best time | Morning or sunset | Avoid midday heat |
Phaselis's Secret
Few people know that behind the third harbor there is a path leading to a hidden waterfall, which is especially full of water in the spring. The path will take about 20 minutes of walking deep into the forest.
Tekirova and Goynuk Canyon: active recreation
If your question sounds like βwhere to go from Kemer to see the mountains,β then the answer is clear - Tekirova and Goynuk Canyon. This direction is literally 5-7 kilometers north of the center of Kemer. The road leads through the village of Tekirova, famous for its botanical garden, and ends at the entrance to the canyon.
Goynuk Canyon is a nature reserve where a turquoise river carved its way through sheer cliffs. You can get here by any car, but you will have to walk beyond the parking lot or use the jeeps of local residents (you donβt need your own SUV for this). The water in the river is icy even in summer, which is refreshing on a hot afternoon.
In Tekirova itself itβs worth checking out the park Exotic Park or just stroll along the promenade, which is less crowded than in the center of Kemer. There is also a large water park here, making the route popular among families with children. The road here is often busy with tourist buses, so be careful.
- π₯Ύ Walk along the bottom of the canyon in wetsuits (the service is paid, but the experience is worth it).
- π² Visit the Tekirova Botanical Garden with a huge collection of cacti and tropical plants.
- πββοΈ Swim in natural pools at the foot of the waterfall deep in the canyon.
β οΈ Attention: There are no shops or cafes inside the trekking area in Goynuk Canyon. Take extra water and food with you if you are planning a long walk.
Antalya: urban classics and history
Heading north towards the regional capital will take you to Antalya. A distance of about 50-60 kilometers is covered along a highway or an old road through the mountains. A trip to Antalya from Kemer is a chance to exchange beach relaxation for the bustle of the city, shopping and exploring world-class museums.
Parking in the center of Antalya, especially in the Kaleici (old town) area, is a serious problem. It is better to leave your car in the multi-level parking lots nearby MuratpaΕa or at the port and continue on foot. The narrow streets of the old city are not designed for heavy traffic.
Be sure to visit the Antalya Archaeological Museum, which is considered one of the best in Turkey. It's also worth taking the cable car up TΓΌnektepe for panoramic views of the city and sea. In the evening you can stroll along the marinated port where the yachts are moored.
βοΈ Checklist for a trip to Antalya
If you are driving on a new highway, be aware of the speed limits and cameras that are active here. The old road through the pass is more picturesque, but requires excellent serpentine driving skills. The choice of route depends on your confidence behind the wheel and your desire to enjoy the views or get there faster.
Side and Manavgat: east direction
For those who are willing to travel a longer distance, the ancient city of Side, located approximately 75 kilometers from Kemer, is an excellent option. The journey will take about an hour and a half, but it is worth it. Side is unique in that the ancient ruins here are integrated directly into the modern urban development.
The road to Side passes through the town of Manavgat, famous for its textile shops and the waterfall of the same name. You can visit the waterfall along the way; it is located very close to the highway. In Side itself, parking is also paid and is located behind the pedestrian zone, since the center is closed to vehicles.
Here you will see the famous Temple of Apollo, an ancient theater and a huge agora. After the excursion, you can relax on the sandy beach, which, unlike the pebbles of Kemer, is covered with fine sand. This destination is ideal for a combined holiday: history, shopping and the beach in one package.
β οΈ Attention: There are a lot of shops with βleatherβ and βgoldβ products in Side. If you are not planning a purchase, be prepared for intrusive but polite service from salespeople.
Kas and Demre: for experienced drivers
The route to Kas and Demre is already a serious road trip, more than 150 kilometers long one way. The road here becomes even more winding and picturesque, passing through passes with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. This direction is for those who love the driving process itself.
Demre is home to the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, while Kas is a bohemian town with narrow streets, boutiques and excellent fish restaurants. Along the way, you can stop by the Lycian Tombs, carved right into the rocks above the road. The road surface is good, but the number of turns can tire an unprepared driver.
If you choose this route, plan to leave early so you can be back before dark, as the lighting on some parts of the mountain route leaves much to be desired. It is also worth considering that gas stations are less common than in the Kemer area, so keep your tank full.
- πΊ Visit the sunken city of Kekova (viewed from a boat or kayak in the Demre area).
- ποΈ Climb to the Lycian Tombs in the rocks above the city of Kas.
- π Have lunch at a fish restaurant in the port of Kasha, choosing fresh fish from the display case.
It is better to plan the route to Kas as a separate day with an overnight stay or a very early start, since the distance and serpentines require a lot of time and effort.
Practical advice and safety
Planning where to go from Kemer by car, always check the technical condition of the car before leaving. Rented cars are often in good condition, but a basic check (tires, oil level, brakes) won't hurt. In mountainous areas, the load on the braking system increases many times over.
There is a strict speed limit on Turkish roads, monitored by many cameras. The fines are sent to the landlord, who will then debit the amount from your card with an additional fee. Obey the signs, especially in and out of populated areas.
Navigation works well, but in mountain gorges the signal may disappear. Download Google Maps offline maps in advance or use Maps.methat work without the Internet. This will save you in situations when you need to turn onto an unobvious road to a waterfall or observation deck.
Do you need an international license to rent a car in Turkey?
Formally, citizens of many countries (including the Russian Federation, CIS countries, EU) have national rights of a new type (plastic card with Latin alphabet). However, the police may not be aware of the nuances of your law. Having international rights (IDP) eliminates any questions and problems when communicating with the police or in the event of an accident. It is recommended to have them with you.
Where is the best place to park in popular tourist spots?
In popular places like Phaselis, Olympos or Side, there are always organized paid parking lots (official). Do not try to leave your car on the side of a narrow road or in βwildβ areas without markings - there is a high risk of getting a fine or being towed away. Parking fees are usually nominal and guarantee safety.
Is it dangerous to drive along mountain serpentines at night?
Yes, it can be dangerous. There is often no lighting on secondary mountain roads, the markings are erased, and wild animals can run out onto the road. In addition, oncoming drivers in Turkey sometimes behave aggressively and cut off when turning. Plan to return before sunset.