The Turkish
coastline boasts many beautiful spots but Kekova is one of my favourites. From
the narrow streets and ruins of nearby Simena to the picturesque mosque in
Ucagiz and the underwater cities at Kekova, it is a region I find truly
magical.
Kekova refers to
both the island and the region. Some will also refer to the underwater ruins as
Kekova. The island, Kekova, is an uninhabited island from which ancient
civilisations have tumbled into the sea as a result of earthquakes. Twenty
years ago strict restrictions on swimming in the area were introduced to
protect the ruins but these have all since been lifted or relaxed and it is now
possible to swim, snorkel and dive in the area. It is across a channel, and
visible, from nearby Kalekoy (referred to as Simena). Kekova can be visited by
boat or kayak. The water here is beautifully warm between July and September. It
is crystal clear and usually possible to see the building remains, stairs and
columns that rest on the seabed from a boat on the surface but the best way to
get a really good look is to snorkel.
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| View towards Kekova from Simena Castle, Turkey |
Just across the
water, Simena is a larger island with a permanent population. It was a Lycian
settlement and has some ancient sunken ruins of its own along the water’s edge.
The narrow streets are a pleasure to navigate, with friendly faces at every
turn, and small cafes and shops along the way.
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| Simena Carpet lady outside her shop, Turkey |
A particular favourite of mine
is a carpet shop, just off the path up to the castle, run by a village woman who proudly shows visitors her wall of
celebrity client photos. She also has a magnificent showroom that opens onto
views of the village and sea. It is definitely worth climbing to the castle
ruins at the peak. High above town the views are spectacular. The castle ruins
are interesting to explore and there is also an ampitheatre and several ancient
tombs to admire.
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| Simena Ampitheatre, Turkey |
In the summer
Kekova gets busy with daytrip visitors. Many gulet trips sailing along the
coast pull in at Kekova and Simena for a few hours too. Somehow it never seems
crowded though. Being accessible by boat only probably limits the hordes of
visitors that invade other parts of the coastline during the summer months.
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| Lycian tombs above Simena Village, Turkey |
Many visitors to
the Kekova region arrive by boat but it is also possible to get as far as
nearby Ugaciz by road and then just make a short (five minute) boat transfer to
Kekova and Simena. Ugaciz is a sleepy little settlement with a lot of boats
moored in front of town. There is a sweet little mosque that stands out as you
approach by sea that is worth a look if you have time. On the road into town
there are often beekeepers selling local honey, which is beautiful, so buy some
if you see them!
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| Ucagiz Mosque, Turkey |
Have you ever
visited an underwater city?
