Belek Introduction

Belek is situated in the south western coastline of Turkey with the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas lapping gently to its coastline. The region is a popular tourist resort with resorts that include Alanya, Antalya, Belek, Colakli, Incekum, Kemer, Manavgat, Side and Tekirova. It has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and it also has many historical attractions. Coupled with its natural beauty, what more could you ask from a holiday destination?

The beaches are a popular attraction and Belek is often referred to as the Turkish Riviera for its long stretches of sandy beaches, sunshine and excellent golfing opportunities. There is more than 16 kms of beautiful beaches where you and your family can happily spend a day glorying under the fantastic blue skies.

The region has an abundance of mountains and valleys: The Taurus Mountain range is one which is absolutely enchanting, particularly in the winter when the mountains are snow capped. There are 3 National Parks in the nearby Province of Antalya where you will find a back to basic feel, with all the charm and unusual flora which is unique to the region. The National Parks are the Coprulu Canyon, Termessos National Park and the Olympus National Park. If you are a nature lover, you will find plenty of places to spend some time enjoying local serenity and peace.

The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. There are plenty of restaurants which serve an amazing mix of traditional Turkish food to something a little more international. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals.

It has a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot sunny days during the summer and sea temperatures between May to November rarely go below 20°C. There are cooling breezes from the north-east which help to keep the summer temperatures more bearable. You can guarantee fabulous sunshine every day.

Tourism is the main economy for Belek, although it is also agricultural and is, in fact, Turkey's largest producer of citrus fruits, flowers and bananas for export.

Whilst you stay at Belek, something which should be on your must seelist is one of the many events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Golden Orange Film Festival which is held in September in Antalya. Many of the local celebrations are religious as Turkey is mainly Muslim. For that reason we would advise clothing to be worn appropriately, particularly ladies when off of the beach and especially in any religious buildings.

A holiday in Belek will provide you with historical sights, fantastic scenery, thrills, excitement, water sports, diving, snorkelling, golf, mountain walks and some of the world's finest beaches. There is a heap to do for families and couples alike. You can find a variety of budget, low cost and value for money hotels which won't break your budget.

Belek Location

Situated in the southern coastline of Turkey with the Mediterranean Sea rolling into its beautiful coastline, Belek is a popular tourist resort. It has a superb climate, fantastic views of the idyllic coastline and it also has many historical attractions. It is often called the Turkish Riviera and once here, it is easy to see why with its long sandy beaches and beautiful sunshine. Coupled with its natural beauty, what more could you ask?

Belek History

Like all of Turkey, the region of Belek is a wealth of history which is evident by some of its buildings and monuments.

Historical artefacts have been unearthed which date back to the 3rdcentury BC when it is believed that Attalos II, the king of Pergamon, is believed to have founded the city which was once called Attalia. The city was given to the Romans on the death of King Attalos III in the 133rdcentury BC. Under the Roman Empire the city became rich and wealthy, and also went through a spell of Christianity.

Later the city was under the Byzantine Empire until the 13thcentury when The Ottoman Turks invaded it and remained the leaders for many centuries.

By 1911 Belek was a mixture of cultures including Christian and Jewish, although there were separate quarters where each lived amongst their own.

The Italians occupied the city until shortly after the First World War ended, when The Turks took it back and it has remained under Turkish rule since. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was the first Turkish president from 1920 until 1935. His rule was, and still is an important part of Turkey's history.

Getting To and Around Belek

Air

You can reach Antalya Airport easily from most UK Airports in around 4 hours. There are several flights each day to the airport and once at the airport you will find your way around easily. The national airline is Turkish Airlines, but there is a wide choice of alternative operators. Once at Antalya the transfer time to the resort of Belek is approximately 25 kms. So it won't be long before you are unpacking your case and dipping your toes in the wonderful sea.

Antalya Airport

See Antalya Airport Guide

Airlines

Austrian Airlines, British Airways, First Choice, flythomascook, Kibris Turk Hava Yollari, Monarch, Pegasus, thomsonfly, Turkish Airlines

Rail

Belek does not have its own railway station, the nearest station to catch a train to Istanbul from Belek is at Burdur. Turkey does have a railway network which is very limited and slow. Turkish Railways (TCDD) operates passenger trains all over the country; you can find cabins, couchettes and restaurant cars. Some are air-conditioned. Fares are comparatively low, but are more expensive for express trains. Some discount travel cards are available and children aged seven and under travel free. Tickets can be purchased at TCDD offices at railway stations and TCDD-appointed agents.

Bus

Belek has a bus station where you can catch a bus to and around most of the resorts. There are twoterminal buildings, one for rural areas and one for intercity connections. Check locally for bus timetables, routes and prices.Dolmus (shared) minibuses are very cheap if you are only travelling short distance. You can flag one down anywhere along the road as they do not have designated stops.

Sea

Antalya has a commercial port and a yachting harbour and whilst it is possible to reach Antalya by private yacht, at the moment there are no ships or ferries which operate for passengers to Antalya. Belek is only a short distance from Antalya, at around 25 kms.

Car

Traffic is generally congested, in particular in the bigger resorts but road signs are international, easy to read and are not complicated. You drive on the right in Belek like the rest of Turkey. It is easily possible to hire a car as long as you have a valid driving licence and international driving permit.

Hiring a car isn't necessary around the big towns but if you want to explore and see something of the smaller, more beautiful villages then the best way, and perhaps the only way is by car.