Exploring the Southern Bodrum Penninsula

Today, we headed out from Bitez and drove along the southern part of the Bodrum Penninsula to Yalikavak, thus completing the loop that we started on the first day. So much to explore. It was overcast and drizzly, but I didn't mind. The rain always makes me feel peaceful. We stopped at many beaches and bays along the way, but I only took a few pictures today. I did learn that the Turks refer to this coastline as the 'lacey' coast...as it has s

Below is looking from Gumusluk Bay to Rabbit Island.



Near the area, we had heard that there was a deserted village hidden in the hills so we went in search of it. Sandima (or Eski Karakaya) is a deserted, Greek village, one of many that were vacated during the exchange of populations in 1922. This unique village clings to the rocky hillside and has some of the best views. It was built inland to protect the inhabitants from the frequent pirate raids on the coast. The village was abandoned until a few years ago and many of the stone houses have been beautifully restored. This is a peaceful place, traffic is prohibited, and the houses are connected by a series of small paths, interspersed with wild flowers, cacti and olive trees. It was like discovering a secret garden, as Oya put it, with every path we took.






Notice the flowers on the stairs.



Below is one of the larger restored homes.

I love the color of the gate below.

The one below if for sale. Anyone interested in going in with me?!

Entry way to our new house...



Needs new flooring...

And a new roof...

Looking up from the 'basement' (ie. your room)...

Wandering through the village was such a nice little adventure. It truly was a secret garden hidden in the hills. We then headed to Yalikavak where Oya treated us to our goodbye dinner. We ate at a fantastic restaurant which I highly recommend. Cimentepe. Amazing mezes (appetizers), fresh whole fish, grilled octopus (which was absolutely incredible...I've never had octopus like this before), deserts, and turkish coffee. The architecture of the building was interesting...ornate wood ceiling, amazing views, cozy fireplace...just very quaint and comfortable. Since this is not the tourist season, we were one of the few in the restaurant. This was a fantastic ending to our time here in the Bodrum Penninsula.

Back in Bitez, we stopped to say good bye to Oya's mom, who was also so gracious and giving, especially with the food!

I do plan to return to the Bodrum area someday to experience the late summer when there is more activity....relax, swim, and enjoy the sun and the ocean. Anybody care to join...let me know! I also need a biking buddy...I'd love to bike from town to town and really explore everything and see all of the ruins. Nature has really carved this entire coastline like lace...there are so many bays....nooks and crannys to explore and enjoy.

Tomorrow (Tuesday), we will take a bus from Bodrum to Antalya to stay with my grandmother. It should take us about 8 hours with stops and lunch. It will be nice to sit back, relax, think, and enjoy the scenery once again.