When
the ancient island city of Cedrai
was founded is unknown. It joined the
Attica-Delos Maritime
league during the Peloponnesian
wars in 450 BC. The spartan commander who took the
part of Athenians, attacked and conquered the city,
and sold of the population as slaves.
Sedir Island, in the Gulf of Gökova, is the
ancient Cedrai. Its old city walls, theatre and
temples can be visited by driving from Marmaris
north to Gelibolu Bay and then crossing by boat.
This voyage also offers an unforgettable panoramic
view of the mountain scenery across the bay. At the
head of the gulf is the village of Gökova
Whose houses seem to cascade down the mountainside.
Restaurants built over bubbling, fresh water streams
that fall from the highlands create an
,unforgettable setting. The towering pines and cool
breezes of Gökova Park are often a welcome
respite from the hot sun.
The Datça
Peninsula provides a natural boundary between
the Aegean Sea, the Gulf of Gökova to the north, and
the Mediterranean Sea, the Gulf of Hisarönü
to the south. Along all the 75 km from Marmaris
to Datça, the road winds among trees and hills,
permitting lovely views over the expanse of blue.
Campers have many perfect settings to choose from;
the less adventurous
can stay in one of the many comfortable holiday
villages. 25 km to Datça is the beautiful Aktur
beach. In Datça white-washed buildings hung with
bougainvilleas decorate the town. The marina is on
the southern bay; while swimmers prefer the northern
bay. Around the marina bars, cafes and a wide
selection of shops keep the tourist interested. Some
shops remain open well into the evening. Relaxing
over a pre-dinner drink and then a delicious meal in
a welcoming restaurant is a popular way to spend the
evening hours. Of course, the local eateries offer
both fresh fish and classical Turkish cuisine. With
any remaining energy, take a stroll and find a disco
to your liking to while away until the early morning
hours. 10 km north of Datça, the Körmen Harbour
is connected to Bodrum by a daily ferry
line. |