Holidays don’t always have to be about squeezing every last second out of your free time. Occasionally, holidaymakers are simply looking to relax and enjoy the pleasure of doing very little. For this kind of getaway, I think Belek in Turkey is more than ideal.
Sitting on Turkey’s southern Mediterranean coast this quaint town is not only beautiful, but wonderfully serene too if you pick the right time of year. Here are some of the best things to do if you’re looking for a relaxing, luxury Turkish escape.
Sandy Sanctuaries
What better way to relax than on a beach in Turkey? Grab a sun lounger, pick your favourite spot and sit back, taking in the fresh sea air and sounds of the waves. You’ll feel completely at peace, surrounded by nothing but golden sands, calm waters and the pleasant warm breeze of Belek.
Belek beach is one of the most luxurious beaches you’ll find in Turkey, purpose-built for those seeking sophistication and class on their holidays. The ten-mile stretch of sand gently slopes into the turquoise waters, where loggerhead and green turtles can sometimes be spotted. Be sure to take your camera and binoculars along in case you’re lucky enough to catch sight of these beautiful creatures.
Save the Turtles
If you take a particular liking to these turtles, why not head to the visitor’s centre for the Mediterranean Association to Save Sea Turtles? The friendly staff are always happy to provide more information regarding their charity.
Spending time at the centre is a great way to fill your holiday with something a little different from the usual hikes, busy shopping centres or noisy waterparks. Plus, you will have the chance to encounter the animals up close and find out more about how you can do your bit to help endangered species.
Top Tip: If you’re staying in Belek for some time and would like to be part of the association, you can join the existing volunteers by helping with data collection, nest protection or simply spreading awareness to the general public.
Look After Your Body
After a day lounging on the beach or chilling out with a cocktail by the pool at your hotel, you’ll be feeling well and truly relaxed. When you think you couldn’t feel more rejuvenated, try a nearby spa and wellness centre to prove you otherwise.
Treatments vary around most resorts in the area, but many offer facials, massages and other body care treatments. Many spas also have the option for full-body makeovers, and some will come equipped with a pool, sauna and a gym, catering to everyone’s relaxation needs.
Putt Your Golf Gear On
If you’re an avid golfer, there’s no better time to enjoy a round or two than on a holiday in Turkey. Many resorts have their own golf courses, some free of charge to those staying in the associated hotel. Altogether, Belek offers ten championship courses, bringing in keen golfers from all over the world year after year.
Where to Stay
Kaya Belek – This hotel has it all when it comes to luxury and sophistication. Boasting an enormous, stylish swimming pool and lounge area, sports facilitates, excellent cuisine and a choice of several luxury suites, you’ll want for nothing. The design throughout the hotel is clean and modern, and there are friendly staff on hand whenever you need them.
Paradise Town Villa Hadrian – If you’d rather stay somewhere a little more private, perhaps this villa will take your fancy. It has everything you could possibly need for your holiday, from a beautiful private pool and outdoor dining space to a well-equipped kitchen, spacious bedrooms and great views of the surrounding landscape.
Kaya Palazzo Golf Resort – Those looking to play a round or two of golf on their holiday will not be disappointed with this choice. With exceptional golfing facilities, countless dining options and wonderfully stylish suites, this is a great accommodation option for couples. The resort also boasts a spa and wellness centre, so ladies can book a pamper session while the golfer swing for a hole in one.
How to Get There
The best way to travel to Belek is by flying to Antalya airport. A flight from London takes just four hours, and there are plenty of airlines offering direct flights. You’re sure to find an airline suited to both your budget and all your holiday needs. From the airport, I would personally recommend pre-booking a Shuttle Direct transfer to take you straight to your chosen accommodation. This way, you can avoid taxi and public transport queues and get whisked off by your personal driver shortly after you land.
Overview
- UK to AYT Flight Time: 4 hours
- AYT to Belek Distance: 31 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 32 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we provide airport shuttles to take you to and from your chosen holiday destination. With options for any type of traveller and punctual, professional drivers, we can have your perfect holiday underway in no time.
