Kızılağaç is a small village located in the bustling District of Manavgat in Turkey. The area itself is wonderfully picturesque and there is a huge range of accommodation options, however it is the larger town of Manavgat that offers the most memorable cultural highlights.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself into the Turkish way of life on your next Eastern European adventure, here are the best attractions on offer for you around Kızılağaç.
Top Tip: Want to explore more of Turkey? Consider a holiday to Belek – read more here.
The Market in Manavgat
Local markets are one of Turkey’s most characteristic features, and making sure you spend a day experiencing the wonders of the Manavgat Market is an absolute must if you’re in the area.
Traders from surrounding mountain villages all come together in the district to sell their home-grown and handmade goods – there’s no end to the array of produce on offer! Fruits, vegetables, clothing, leather goods, jewellery… the list goes on. Haggling is a typical trait of Turkish markets, so be prepared for a passionate discussion with the vendor if you’re brave enough to negotiate prices.
Top Tip: This is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking to purchase any souvenirs for family and friends back home – you’re bound to find something among the rows of stalls.
Dance the Night Away – Turkish Style
There are a number of bars and restaurants around Manavgat which will no doubt host lively dance-oriented evenings, so don’t miss out on this authentic experience. Some places will even encourage audience participation, and will clear a dancefloor space to allow you and other travellers to attempt some of the complex moves.
These events make for fun and memorable evenings, and although you may not consider yourself a dancer, you might find it difficult not to join in!
Glorious Gastronomy and Traditional Treats
You’ll have no difficulty finding eateries in Turkey, but there are a couple that are essential if you’re looking to sample the very best traditional dishes.
- Sorgun Kazan Restaurant – Just a 20-minute drive from Manavgat’s centre will take you to this outstanding, picturesque restaurant. Enjoy exquisite Turkish delicacies including aubergine kebabs, tender meats and slow-baked pastries. The restaurant is slightly more off-the-beaten-track, so if you’re looking for something a little quieter yet still high-quality, this is a fantastic place to try.
- Buyuk Selale Restaurant – If you want to experience dinner with a breath-taking view, this is the restaurant for you. Located beside the famous Manavgat Waterfall, you can indulge in Buyuk Selale’s excellent seafood dishes as you watch the incredible cascading waters. Although often busy due to its remarkable location, there really is no place quite like it, and the food is exceptional.
Marvel at Manavgat’s Mosque
This is without doubt one of the most beautiful locations in the area and is a wonderful representation of local traditions. The exterior of the building has a sleek, modern finish, and inside, the décor is truly outstanding. The pastel-coloured tiles cover the walls, floors and ceilings with intricate designs, creating a bright, fresh atmosphere completely unique to the building.
Women are provided with long shawls (to wear over their heads) and skirts before they are permitted to enter the Mosque. This provides yet another unusual insight into the Turkish way of life. This place is certainly worth a visit if you’re interested in diverse cultures and curious traditions.
Where to Stay
Naz Bungalow – If you’re after a quiet sanctuary in which to spend the evenings of your holiday, these quaint wooden apartments will be your ideal accommodation. Located right on the seafront, you can enjoy the sounds of the waves as you drift off to sleep in your cosy lodge-style bedroom. With private gardens and outdoor seating, these bungalows have a wonderful rustic charm.
Hotel Derin Ma Sorgun – This simple yet stylish hotel has all the holiday amenities you could wish for. Beautifully furnished bedrooms accompany modern private bathrooms and large balconies, and there are some fantastic attractions just a short journey away including the Manavgat Waterfall.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Kızılağaç is to first fly from the UK into Antalya Airport. The flight time is usually around four hours and you can choose from six direct airlines. Every week approximately 32 flights to Antalya Airport leave from the UK, so among these there should be a time well-suited to you.
Once you have arrived at the airport, a pre-booked shuttle is the most effective way to get to your chosen accommodation. The transfer to Kızılağaç usually takes just over an hour, and if you book a Shuttle Direct service your driver will be ready and waiting for you at the Arrivals lounge.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct we offer reliable airport transfers to make sure your holidays run smoothly right from the beginning. Our friendly drivers are always happy to help and give any advice regarding your destination. Book your shuttle today via our website.
