Breathtaking bays, traditional villages, thriving towns and ancient ruins await those that cruise the Bozburun Peninsula, also known as the Loryma Peninsula.

This rugged pine-clad stretch of coastline carries on from the Datca Peninsula and is equally idyllic. It’s a place where extravagant yachts cruise alongside traditional gulets, and it’s a tranquil location and the ideal spot to relax and enjoy swim-stops in clear bays or take lunch at hidden restaurants.

THE BOZBURUN PENINSULA

The Bozburun Peninsula is home to many villages and several large resorts. The most notable include the main town of Bozburun with its quirky traditional feel, the lively tourist resorts of Içmeler and Turunç, and Selimiye, one of Türkiye’s most captivating coastal villages.

The Bozburun Peninsula is also home to many fabulous bays and coves. ASK US to add Söğüt Köyü to your itinerary. Here you will find two attractive bays and a quaint village with a surprisingly modern little marina. The smallest bay is a quiet spot to enjoy a dip before heading over for lunch in the village. The largest bay is opposite the Greek island of Symi and known as Saranda Cove. This is a great place to take in the sunset and enjoy your evening meal.

IÇMELER

İçmeler was once a sleepy sponge diving village but is now the most commercial resort on the Bozburun peninsula. It’s a popular summer tourist destination 8 km southwest of Marmaris. The main lure of the town is its beautiful location, backed on three sides by forest and tucked in a bay with a glorious 6 km stretch of hotel, bar and restaurant-backed beach.

İçmeler is often described as Marmaris’ sleepy neighbour, and this is true to some extent. The area has grown considerably over the past decade, and now a place to eat and party. But İçmeler is decidedly quieter than Marmaris, with nightclubs swapped for late-night bars and cafe culture, and the streets not nearly as busy so it does retain a traditional charm. If you are heading across to the busy port of Marmaris, you may want to check out İçmeler first, especially early or late season when it’s less busy.

TURUNÇ

Turunç is another former fishing village turned tourist resort found 20 km from Marmaris. Turunç is a pretty place lying at the foot of the Taurus mountains and boasting clear waters and a Blue Flag beach.

Life in Turunç is laid back. Tourists tend to be families that spend their time lazing on the beach, indulging in water sports or relaxing in one of the many beach-side haunts. If you are travelling in the area, Turunç Bay is worth a look if you’re seeking some life, yet not wanting to indulge in full-on mass tourist mayhem.

KUMLUBÜK & AMOS

Kumlubük, found 24 km south-southwest from Marmaris, sits at the foot of the ancient site of Amos. Once a busy harbour, it is today a breathtaking bay with a wonderful beach, a yacht club and a growing selection of restaurants and hotels.

If you enjoy history, a ramble up to the ancient Carian settlement of Amos can be arranged from Turunç or Kumlubük. The site lies in ruins and sits on top of a hill overlooking Kumlubük bay. It dates back more than 2,200 years and is worth visiting as the remains of a Hellenistic Theatre and the city walls can still be seen. The site affords spectacular views over the bay. CONTACT US for details.

AREA HIGHLIGHT: SELIMIYE

What makes the Bozburun Peninsular so very special is the quiet haunts, the hidden coves and the places off the main tourist track where life is more laid-back.

The quaint village of Selimiye is just 38 km from Marmaris and an easy stop off en-route cruising up or down the coast. It is often described as an “undiscovered gem” by travel writers. We wouldn’t say it’s undiscovered as the yachts and wealthy out-of-towners discovered it years ago, but we would say we understand why people want to keep it under-wraps – it’s hard not to fall for Selimiye’s charm!

Selimiye is famed for its bay and the many great seafood restaurants that surround it. It is also within easy reach of several historic sites including the ruins of three castles and the remnants of the ancient city of Hydas. Selimiye will appeal to history lovers and those that like to take in a bit of local life whilst grazing over a seabass dinner. It’s a wonderful place to unwind and take it easy or to people watch and blend into the crowd. If you would like to add Selimiye to your cruising itinerary, please CONTACT US.

ESCAPES AROUND THE BOZBURUN PENINSULA

There are many fabulous places to visit along the Aegean coast of Türkiye and the Bozburun Peninsula has more than its fair share of onshore escapes perfect to enjoy some downtime.

MAI MAI BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Accessible only by yacht, Mia Mai Boutique Hotel is one of the regions best-kept secrets. Enjoy a healthy morning smoothie or pre-dinner cocktail at the bar and take in the stunning vistas over the bay. Indulge in a spa treatment, spend the night in one of the stylish rooms, or dine alfresco on the Mediterranean fare served at its exclusive restaurant.

BOZBURUN YACHT CLUB

Another splendid option only accessed by sea is Bozburun Yacht Club. Here you find fresh local dishes and seafood cooked to perfection and served waterside. Sip some bubbles and take in the sunset at the bar before retiring back to your yacht. CONTACT US to book tables in advance if you intend visiting.

If you would like more information about any of the places mentioned or want us to draw up an itinerary, please CONTACT 360° YACHTING. To read more about locations and marinas in Türkiye, please browse our BLOG.

Relevant Reading: Best Super Yacht Marinas in Türkiye, Bozcaada, Best Bays Around Gocek