The town of Belek, lying on the south coast of Turkey, with lush blue sea and white sands is the latest must see spot on the Turkish Mediterranean coastline.
In fact, if you are an avid golfer, Belek is a dream location for you and in 2012 it hosted the Turkish Airlines World Golf Final, followed by the Turkish Airlines Open the year after.
But more about golf in a little while as the town is a popular spot for those seeking sun and adventure too.
There are several spa options here and the Kursnulu Waterfall is an equally popular tourist attraction with over 100 species of bird living within this natural wonder.
Golf
But first the golf. This region in Turkey is now beginning to surpass the Algarve in Portugal as the Med’s number one place to go and play golf.
Try out The National course, rated as the best in the region, which is saying something given the stiff competition.
The course is viewed as hard but fair with an excellent variety of holes and the greens are considered to be in excellent condition.
Furthermore, the sights and views on offer are simply stunning and add to the feel that this is not just one of the best places to play golf in Belek, but perhaps in the Mediterranean.
Kursnulu Waterfall
This is an excellent place to visit, particularly in Spring or Autumn, and can give something to those seeking wildlife, particularly of the flying variety.
Sometimes the amount of water actually falling may be on the decline at the height of summer but can still be equally fascinating.
Belek Town
Bang in the middle of town proudly stands the main mosque and is surrounded by impressive statues.
Shopping can be enjoyed along the boulevards with trees lining the streets to add to the whole experience.
The place has a tranquil feel to it that can charm most who dare to visit.
Belek Town Mosque
The aforementioned mosque is certainly a great attraction lying at the town’s hub.
Admire the mosaic ceiling and enjoy the calm oasis and you may even be lucky enough to meet a local who can give you an insight into the building’s historical significance to the area.
Spa
If you miss out on some of the activities above try not to miss out on one of the fantastic spas available in Belek.
If the man is becoming addicted to the golf course and the woman wants some rest and relaxation (or you can enjoy this as a couple activity if you wish) head for the Sensimar Belek Resort and Spa.
Here you can get a facial, a manicure and pedicure, as well as a soothing massage.
This serene environment is nicely taken care of by experienced professionals to take care of all your needs and requirements as you seek the pampering your body deserves.
In fact, many of the golf clubs in town also include a spa so you can even get some R & R in the same place that your partner is improving his swing and his putting.
Visit nearby Perga (or Perge)
If you are looking to stretch your wings a little further, why not take a trip to nearby Perga, also known as Perge.
Less than 25 minutes by car, enjoy this ancient Anatolian city as part of a half or full day trip from Belek.
Alexander the Great once ruled here and, legend has it, that St Paul came to Perga where he preached the word of God, before going on to Attaleia.
Where to stay
Affordable
Fortunately, Belek has yet to succumb to the extortionate prices of other European resorts and so its affordable options are very affordable.
The Anfora Hotel definitely falls into that category and it does not compromise on its facilities, despite its excellent value.
Firstly, it is located very centrally and is also just fifteen minutes on foot to the beach.
In addition, air conditioned rooms with balconies are available and all of which contain televisions, mini bars and a free seating area as standard.
As for the grounds of the hotel, there is a swimming pool, including sun loungers, a hotel bar and an open buffet breakfast.
The Anfora offers a lot of luxuries but at a very reasonable price and appeals to those who wish to save their money for other aspects of the trip.
Mid Range
If you are seeking some extra comfort but at not too much extra cost it is possible to get a five star hotel at a mid range price (comfortably less than €100 per night, depending on the season and the amount of time you book in advance).
And where can you get this unbelievable value? At the Belconti Resort Hotel.
It is fantastically situated on the verge of protected pine and eucalyptus woods and is in the middle of a bunch of gardens beside the beach.
Within the complex you can find a health and fitness centre catering for all your needs, from massages to health and beauty care, from a Turkish bath to a steam room, from Basketball to Tennis. You will want for nothing here.
Children are well looked after too with water slides and a playground to keep the little ones occupied while you relax and enjoy your surroundings.
This place offers all you would expect from a five star hotel without having to pay five star prices.
Luxury
The Kempinski Hotel The Dome is right on the beach front and is one of the most sought after accommodations in Belek, particularly with regards to keen golfers.
Its reputation goes before it, especially when you consider some of the awards it has won or been nominated for, namely Best Golf Hotel in Europe by Golf Magazine amongst others.
The hotel has direct access to the plush Antalya Golf Club and welcomes many of the famous golfers that participate in its tournaments.
However, the Kempinksi offers so much more than just golf. Indeed, just try one of the candlelit dinners at one of the pavilions overlooking the sea and relax and enjoy one of the experiences of a lifetime.
Getting to and from Belek
Esenboga Airport (Antalya International Airport) is your best option for getting to and from Belek.
The airport was primarily built to cater for the millions of tourists that visit this part of the Mediterranean every year.
Shuttle Direct can take you from the airport to your hotel in style in comfortably less than 25 minutes so sit back, relax and let Shuttle Direct take the stress.
