Turkey Turquoise Coast Multi-Sport

Hike, sail, snorkel, kayak and tour antiquities along Turkey's Aegean Coast

Get ready for the travel experience of a lifetime! The Turkish people are unsurpassed in their hospitality, the food is to die for, the coastline is a dream and the country is filled with timeless villages, magnificent scenery and amazing historic sites which transport you to the glory and splendor of the ancient world.

Days 1-2 Istanbul. If time permits following your arrival, enjoy a taste of Istanbul with a visit to the Grand Bazaar whose 4000 shops offer everything imaginable. The next day includes multiple stops--the Roman Hippodrome and Egyptian obelisk; Hagia Sophia, one of the world's great marvels of religious architecture; Topkapi Palace, the imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans; Basilica Cistern with its 336 carved marble columns; and the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and stunning cascade of domes.

Days 3-5 Ephesus-Temple of Artemis-House of the Virgin Mary-Hierapolis-Saklikent Gorge. Begin with a flight and transfer to Ephesus, arguably the best preserved ancient city in the world, where Marc Anthony romanced Cleopatra and St. Paul preached the new religion of Christianity. Visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, the largest Greek temple ever built and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Aphrodisias is one of the most stunning restorations in Turkey and its Stadium and Temple of Aphrodite are remarkable. Our hotel in Pamukkale overlooks travertine pools and the ancient Roman spa of Hierapolis, both declared World Heritage sites in 1988. Explore Saklikent Gorge, an extraordinary canyon, as we hike at times through the stream that runs along its floor.

Days 6-8 Turquoise Coast-Kekova Island-Simena. Board our private yacht and sail to the fishing village of Kas, stopping along the way to swim and snorkel at the sandy beach of Kaputas and explore towering Kaputas Canyon. Then sail to the ancient site of Aperlai and on to Kekova Island, with swimming and snorkeling opportunities along the way. Explore by kayak the sunken ruins of ancient Dolchiste, destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century. Return to our boat at the village of Simena with its famous Crusader Castle.

Days 9-10 Patara-Dalaman. Hike to the ancient Lycian port of Patara following the aqueduct which once brought water to the city. Patara is famous for its beach where loggerhead sea turtles come to lay their eggs. Swim and explore the city's ruins. Transfer to Dalaman Airport for your flight back to Istanbul and homeward flights.