Exploring A Hidden Gem in Antalya, Belek

Belek, the stunning region known as the golf capital of Turkey has much for any discerning visitor to discover. Apart from its appeal to avid golf lovers this place is considered to be the newest and perhaps the best holiday destination in Antalya. With its beautiful modern hotels, villas and resorts, Belek is ideally located only 40km from the town of Antalya itself.

The perfect combination of nature and urban chic, Belek has a whole host of ancient history to explore too, including one of the best preserved theatres in the world, known as the Aspendos. Beaches and beautiful coastline offer the relaxed laid back holiday feel while many hotels provide other sports and activities to get involved in. Great restaurants and bars are the icing on the cake when it comes to a fabulous holiday in this delightful and somewhat exclusive part of Turkey.

Three Very Different Highlights of Belek

Dolphinarium

Part of Troy Aqua Park, this popular Dolphinarium puts on spectacular dolphin shows twice a day (except Monday) at 11am and 3pm. 800 people can be hosted at each show and the atmosphere is always exciting. For 25 euros per adult and free entrance for the under 3s you can watch these magnificent mammals perform their majestic displays. And it is not only dolphins that will wow you here, as the walrus and even the whales make an appearance as well. If you want to swim with the dolphins, you are welcome to for an extra charge.

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Gullet Day Trip From Manavgat

What better way to spend a day that relaxing on a traditional gullet and sailing down the river to the sea? These gullet trips are well organised and give you plenty of time to swim, explore the beaches and enjoy a simple but delicious barbequed lunch that you can indulge in on the boat in the shade. Local meats and tasty salads, washed down with cold beers are the perfect replenishment.

Perge

Perge is the fascinating place at which remains of both Greek and Roman towns have been excavated. So much is still standing here despite the successive earthquakes, and the baths and stadium are particularly interesting. It is always a good idea to take a guide as they are well versed in bringing the history to life. Kids will love exploring the ruins and even if they are not enamoured by the history, they will love all of the different lizards that are slithering around here.

So, although golf may be a good reason to visit Belek, there is plenty more here to experience.

How to Get to Belek

If you decide to holiday in Belek you are likely to arrive in Antalya, an airport well served by an abundance of flights from many major European cities. And here at Shuttle Direct, we know that after a long journey you want to get to your resort or hotel as quickly as possible and with the least amount of stress. That is why we aim to provide easy, punctual and efficient transfers that will whisk you door to door. It is our experience that puts us at the top of our game and our drivers know their local area inside out, meaning they can get you to your final destination as quickly as possible.

Book in advance and you will be one step ahead. We also offer private or shared options so you have the flexibility to choose.

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Where to Stay

Ceres Hotel – Our choice of accommodation that fits the budget traveller is the delightful Ceres Hotel. Situated right by a river and a short drive to the beach, you can enjoy an in-house restaurant, outdoor pool and excellent facilities here. The hotel has a modern feel, an exchange desk, a place to check your emails for free, and a pool bar that sells drinks and snacks. Every room has a balcony and a flat screen TV too.

Melissa Garden Hotel – This mid priced accommodation option with its own private beach access, spa facilities and outdoor pool and water slides is an excellent choice. There is free WI-FI throughout the Melissa Garden Hotel and all rooms are beautifully furnished with balconies, TV, and en suite facilities. The hotel has a quality restaurant on site and there is a buffet breakfast available to guests as well as a bar. The private beach offers water sports and if you enjoy golf you will be pleased to know that there are 11 courses within 10 miles of the hotel.

Calista Luxury Resort – For all-inclusive five star luxuries choose the Calista Luxury Resort. Private beach, surf and sailing school as well as spa facilities make this place a cut above the rest. Stunning spacious en suite rooms boast beautiful balconies, excellent views, TVs and free Wi-Fi. There are no less than 10 restaurants here and the Turca Pool Bar offers snacks and drinks at the pool. With 5 tennis courts, a 5-aside football pitch and even a bowling alley, this hotel is a haven for anyone who loves sport. The spa is the ideal place to relax and in this tranquil space you can indulge in a snow bath, sauna or one of several treatments.

Header image: “Beach at Belek, Antalya, Turkey” by Alex Kulikov is licenced under CC BY 2.0
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