Antalya - KAS (Kash)

Kas County is surrounded by the Esen Creek and Fethiye to the west, by Kale (Demre) to the east, and by Elmali County to the north. Kas County includes 70 km of Mediterranean coastline and lies across from Meis Island.

Kas, a tourism paradise at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, is one of Antalya's fifteen counties. Antalya's other counties are Akseki, Alanya, Demre, Elmah, Finike, Gazipasa, Gundogmus,, Ibradi, Kemer, Korkuteli, Kumluca, Manavgat, Serik, and the Central Antalya County, The 895 I -sq-km Teke Peninsula, between the bays of Antalya and Fethiye, was known in ancient times as Lycia. To the east of Lycia was Pamphylia, which is the area of modern Antalya. To the west was Caria (modern Mugla), and to the north Pisidia (modem Burdur and Isparta). The Mediterranean Sea forms the southern border. The area of Kas was an important part of southern Lycia.
Archeological research has revealed the remains of the ancient city of Habesos, also called Antiphellos. It was at the intersection of the roads to Cana and Lycia, as well as being a port town. Alexar the Great annexed the area into his kingdom during his Anatolian Campaign. After his death, control of the area changed hands between the Seleucids and the Ptolemies.
Antiphellos gained importance during the Roman period and became an episcopal center during the Byzantine period. Later it was conquered by the Arabs and Seljuks and renamed Andifli. Next, it was ruled by the Tekeogullan Principality and then by the Ottomans in the time of Yildinm Beyazit. The Teke Peninsula was important to the Ottoman Empire for sea trade.
And now, since the founding of the Republic of Turkey, Kas County enchants visitors and holds them spell-bound by its natural beauty and inspiring views. Meis Island lies across from Kas like a floating rainbow amidst the crystal clear blue waters of the Mediterranean, held gently by the handsome Taurus Mountains.

Historic and Tourist Sites

Tne most important historical remains of the ancien: city are the carved rock tombs to the north and the Lycian sarcophagi scattered ali around the city. The most impressive sarcopnagus, called Krai Mezar (King's Tomb) by the locals, is located on a street called Uzuncarsj Caddesi. ft dates from the 4fr centur> BC and is carved from a single block with eight imes of script in the Lycian language. The lid of the sarcopnagus contains four lion heads, two on each side.

One of the important ruins in ancient Antiphellos is the Kas Amphitheater dating from the Ist century BC. It was repaired in the 2n   century AD and seats 4000 people on 26 levels. Its most important feature is that it is the only Anatolian amphitheater facing the sea.

Northeast of the amphitheater is Akdam, a 4th century BC household grave in Doric style. It is 3.5 meters high, carved into a natural boulder. There is a carving of 24 girls holding hands and dancing inside the grave. On Hastane Caddesi (Hospital Street) is a temple made of uniformly hewn stones. The stones in the foundation are from the Roman period. At the entrance of the Yacht Harbor is the historic cistern which dates back to the 5   century BC. The cistern, carved in rock, was also used for stonng wine and olive oil throughout history. Its ceiling was built of stone blocks that were lied inside the other.

Kalkan (Kalamaki)

Kalkan is 25 km from Kas, resting on the beautiful shores of a bay. It attracts thousands of tourists each year with its hotels, pensions, restaurants, and shops near the Yacht Harbor. The city's archrtecture has been preserved. You can take a boat ride to Pigeon Sea Cave 2 km from Kalkan. It takes its name from the many pigeons who find refuge there.

Gelemis (Patara)

It is located 41 km from Kas. The ancient city is on the east shore of the port. The city and port extend about 3 km up the valley. The appearance of the port of Patara has been caused by silt deposits brought by the Xanthos (Esen) Creek. Herodotos is the first person to mention Patara by name in the extant historical records. Legend says that Nymph Lykia and Apollon were born there. Its history dates at least to the 5th and 6th centuries BC. The city initially escaped destruction by Alexander the Great by opening its gates to him, but it was subsequently sacked by others after his death. Later it was controlled by Egypt until it was seized by Antiochus III in 190 BC. It was ruled by the Romans as well.

It entered the Lycia Union in the 2n   century AD and became one of six cities under Lycia's rule. These were Patara, Pmara, Xanthos, Olympus, Myra and Tlos. The council meetings of the Lycian Union were held in Patara, and Patara held the right of using three votes. While under Roman rule, it served as a center of justice for Roman governors and as a naval base.
Patara was also important for the Byzantines. Saint Nicholas, who is celebrated as Santa Claus, was bom there. St. Paul's travels took him through Patara, which later became an episcopal center. As you enter Patara, you can see Lycian style graves from the Roman period. At the entrance are the

Zafer Taki (Victory Monument) with three arches, the underwater Liman (Port) Church with three naves, and the ruins of the Hurmalik (Date Palm Grove) Bath. Excavation 100 meters ahead revealed the world's oldest detailed road map which shows distances between Lycian cities. The Vespasianus Bath was built between 69 and 79 AD. If you follow the foot path at the edge of the bath, you will arrive at Patara's marble street. The street leads to the wide walls of a Byzantine castle. There is a Connthian Temple east of the castle and a Byzantine church on the west.

The Patara Amphitheater built into the hillside dates from the 2n   century BC. The sections which were under sand were cleaned off revealing the theater which probably held about 10,000 people. Excavation in Patara continues. The Patara Beach, 18 km long and from 280 - 1500 meters wide, is Turkey's largest sandy beach. It is also the breeding ground of the delightful Caretta-Caretta sea turtles, so during the breeding season, their area is carefully protected by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. There are plenty of hotels, motels, pensions, shops, and restaurants serving delicious local dishes in Patara. The area is also growing as a location for greenhouses.

Xanthos

Xanthos is 45 km from Kas on the east shore of the Esen Creek in the borders of Kimk. It was the capital city of the Lycian Union beginning in 168 BC. In the Lycian language it is referred to as Ama or Amna. Ancient historians report that the Cretan hero, Sarpedon founded Xanthos. Findings from the acropolis indicate that the city's history extends to the 8*  century BC. The city was a proud example of Lycian resistance during the siege by Harpagos of the Persians in 545 BC, but failed to prevent its capture. After being conquered by Alexander the Great, it was ruled by Seleucids and Romans. The city saw its greatest development under the Romans who practically rebuilt the whole city in 42 BC after the destruction caused by Brutus. It was then an Imperial Province together with Pamphylia until it temporarily gained independence under Nero. In 73-74 AD it again was annexed into the Province of Lycia - Pamphylia.

The city walls were repaired and expanded under the Byzantines, and a monastery was built at the top of the hill on the north. It was also an episcopal center. From the end of the 7 century to the beginning of the 10    century it was invaded by the Arabs. The gate on the south side dates from the 2n   century BC and faces the Done Victory Arch of Emperor Vespasianus. The Lycian Acropolis on the southwest side is where the city was first founded. In the same location are remains from a temple which is believed to have been for Artemis, and a Byzantine church. The amphitheater dates from the 2 century AD. Initial excavation of Xanthos was earned out in 1838 by the Englishman Charles Fellows, and many valuable items such as the Nereid monument, the Harpy monument, the Payave Sarcophagus, and the Lion Tomb were taken to the British Museum.

Saklikent

The natural wonder, Sakhkent (Hidden City), 60 km from Kas, is reached by crossing a 100-meter wooden bridge over the canyon. Water rushes over the boulders in the river, creating a wonderful view for the restaurants and trout farms there. Six km of the 18 km long canyon are good for hiking. It is an ideal location to escape from the summer heat and swim in the cool water or relax in the shade of the plane trees

Felen Plateau (Phellos)

The ancient city of Phellos, which was very important in the 4th century BC, is located 12 km from Kas on the Felen Plateau. With its commanding view of the port city, Antiphellos, below, its function was to provide security for the area. One section of the city walls of Phellos is still standing. There is a sarcophagus with reliefs, some 4th century BC sarcophagi and household graves carved out of rock around the city.

Belenli (isinda)

Isinda is on a hill nght next to the village of Belenli, 13 km from Kas. It was a small Lycian city protected with city walls. Two household graves with reliefs of Lycian writing in the middle of the acropolis are interesting. There are quite a few rock tombs and Lycian sarcophagi from the Roman period in the city.

Bezirgan (Pirha)

The ancient city of Pirha is a twenty minute walk from the mountain village of Bezirgan at an elevation of 850 m. There are many rock tombs facing the sea. The sarcophagi are scattered around the city. Several of the statues and reliefs from Pirha are being displayed in the Antalya Museum.

Sütlegen (Nisa)

Nisa is 15 minutes from the village of Sutlegen, 60 km from Kas. Its ancient Lyctan name, as it appears on the wall of the amphitheater, is Neiseus. The ruins in the city are from the Lycian and Roman periods. Some of the sarcophagi have pictures of spears, shields, women, and men on the front. There is an agora and a theater in the city. Coins minted by the Lycian Union which were found in the city are being displayed in the Antalya Museum.

Gombe

Gombe is 60 km from Kas on Elmali Road. The pine and cedar trees all along the road hide the villages from view. This plateau area is known for its fresh, cold water and its apple orchards. The tourist hotels here serve dishes prepared with delicious local herbs. This is also the location of the highest mountain in the region, Akdag (3024 m). Yesjlgol and Ucarsu are great locations to escape the heat of summer and walk in beautiful natural surroundings and fresh air. The region is known for its snow ice cream and snow sherbet made from mountain snow.

Tourism Activities in Kas

Sea Caves

The shore around Kas has many captivating caves. These include the Kekova Island Sea Cave, the Asir1i Island Sea Cave, the Pigeon Roost Sea Cave, and the most famous of all, the Blue Cave. It is located 19 km from Kas and 6 km from Kalkan. It is 50 m long, 40 m wide and 15 m high, so you can explore it with a rowboat. The Blue Cave is formed in early Cretaceous limestone. Sunlight reflecting off the water from outside the cave produces a beautiful phosphorescent blue color containing all shades of green and blue. Sometimes, it is possible to find a family of seals living in the cave.

Beaches

If you're looking for golden yellow sand and clear blue sea, Kas is the place to come.  Noteworthy beaches include Kucukcakil, Buyukcakil, Akcagerme and Limanagzi. Kaputas, Beach, shining with golden and blue colors, sits well away from the road at the bottom of 192 steps. It is 19 km from Kas.

Sualtı Dalışları

Kas has become an important underwater diving center in recent years. Various diving clubs in the Yacht Harbor compete for the business of thousands of local and foreign tourists who come each year to see the Mediterranean's oldest sunken remains. The turquoise blue waters transport you to another world decorated with all kinds offish, sponges, octopi, and sunken vessels with their amphorae. Sometimes you may even see Caretta-Caretta sea turtles or touch a dolphin dunng your exciting dive.

Kano

Tour agencies in the region organize canoe trips down the peaceful E$en Creek, starting in Kimk, 45 km from Kas. The creek flows 15 km down to Patara Beach without any danger for participants. The natural surroundings and view are fabulous. Dunng the trip, there is a break for swimming, snacking, or taking a mud bath. There are also canoe tours along the shore. There is transportation from Kas, to Ucagiz Village where the canoeing starts. Beautiful bays, historical sites, a sunken city and Simena await your discovery. This four-hour tour is very enjoyable and relaxing.  It includes time to swim and eat as well.

Trekking

Kas, and its environs are the ideal location for trekking amidst both history and nature. The Lycian way, a long distance trekking route in Turkey, leads the trailers to various Lycian cities near Kas, with the help of signposts. There are additional trekking opportunities in Yanmada, Limanagzi, Gedife Hill, Phellos, Gokceoren, Asaz Mountain, and Gombe.
The winding roads which are lined with sage, oregano, pine trees, and typical Mediterranean Region scrub bushes are ideal venues for enjoying nature.

Blue Voyage

Kas, is one of the Blue Voyage's important stops, and the starting point for some. Vessels in the Yacht Harbor have access to water, electricity, gasoline and shower and laundry facilities. There are Blue Voyage tours originating in Kas. for 3 days and nights and for 7 days and nights.

Cliff Parachuting

Recent research has shown that the cliffs in Kas, are among the best for parachuting in Turkey, based on topography and weather patterns. Jumps are done under expert supervision and with proper safety equipment If you're looking for a thrilling experience, come enjoy the greenery of the mountains and the beautiful turquoise views of the clear Mediterranean while parachuting from cliffs.

Kas' Regional Features

Local Cuisine

The Mediterranean diet is famous. During each season of the year, there are fresh agricultural products to choose from. Various red meat dishes, sea food, and fish soup are some of the specialties.

Fishing

Kas. enjoys the clear, clean waters of the Mediterranean Sea without water pollution problems. Good fishing centers mostly on red sea bream, lobster, bonito, red and gray mullet, and goby. Fresh lobster and octopus are also served daily in the restaurants. Trout farms have recently founded in Gombe and Saklikent.

Honey Bees

Beehive and pine honey are harvested and sold in this region.

Grape Molasses

The fertile vineyards in the Kas region provide grapes and grape molasses to enjoy along with your meals.

Carob Molasses

The region of Kas is covered with carob trees. The molasses made from them is unique to this area and is thought to be a cure for every trouble.

Oregano and Garden Sage

These spices, grown in Kas,' mountains, are used for tea and as spices for food. Their benefits include easing digestion and calming nerves. They are also exported and used as ingredients in some medicines.

Handicrafts

Handmade carpets and other woven1 items are made here. Carpets called "Barak kilimi" made of long strands of goat hair are popular. Dastar, tulbent, and yemeni style head scarves are made and sold as souvenirs. Decorative walnut chests, and small wooden tea tables, spoons and rolling pins are also popular in Kas.

Tourism Opportunities around Kas

Antalya, the province Kas is located in, is one of Turkey's leading provinces in tourism. There are countless opportunities for sightseeing and other activities.
The province of Antalya, in Turkey's western Mediterranean Region, is surrounded by Isparta and Burdur to the north, by Konya and Karaman to the northeast, by Icel to the east, by Mugla to the west and by the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The 630 km of shoreline are complemented by natural bays, flowing rivers, green forests and ancient cities. Antalya's mountains include Akdag, Susuz, Alacadag, Beydaglan, Tahtali and Geyik. Its plateaus are Antalya, Finike, Alanya, Kasaba, Demre and Tekirova. The dam lakes of Oymapmar, Alakirand Korkuteli are also in the province.
Archeological evidence indicates human habitation as early as 160,000 years ago. Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic artifacts have been found in Karain Cave in the village of Yagcilar. Pamphylia, Lycia and Cilicia were ruling city states. The dates of various administrations are as follows: Lydian King Croessus from 560 to 546 BC, Persians after 546 BC, Macedonian Kingdom and rule by the generals from 334 to 333 BC, rule of Rome and Pergamum after 189 BC. Later, Attalos II, the king of Pergamum, founded Antalya as "Attalia." The Seljuks came to power in the I I*  century AD, and the Ottomans, under Yildinm Beyazit, annexed Antalya to the Ottoman State in 1391. The Karamanogullan Principality ruled the area from 1402 to 1415. Then in 1423, the Ottoman Empire conquered the area and made it one of 14 political subdivisions in Anatolia. Antalya became a province of the new Republic of Turkey when it was founded on October 29, 1923.
Some of the best examples of Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilization are found in the remains of the castle walls surrounding the city of Antalya. There are still some towers and bastions remaining including Hadrian's Gate built in 130 AD. Kaleifi, with its inner and outer walls is a gem of ancient history. It is quite active with its many pensions, hotels, bars, and shops. Old Antalya Houses, with their bay windows and exquisite woodwork never cease to amaze visitors. Being one of the earliest Islamic works in Antalya, the Fluted Minaret (Yivli Minare) has become the symbol of city. The base of the minaret is made of bricks and turquoise tiles; the upper section has 8 flutes. Other historical sites are the Kesik Minare Mosque from the Seljuk period, the Bali Bey Mosque from the 15th century, the Muratpasa Mosque (1570), the Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque from the 16th century, the Hidirlik Tower, iskele Mosque, Karatay Madrasa (1250), Ahi Yusuf Masjid (1249), Ahi Yusuf Memonal Tomb (1249), Tek Kapili Inn and Iki Kapili Inn.

Antalya is one of Turkey's important convention centers. The Sabanci Glass Pyramid Convention and Exhibition Center is located in Hasan Subafi Cultural Park in Konyaalti neighborhood. The Convention Center offers 2900 m2 of space with a total capacity of 4280 people. There are 5 auditoriums, 2 exhibition halls, and an amphitheater. The Glass Pyramid successfully hosts both foreign and domestic events including congresses, conventions, exhibitions, fairs, fashion shows, receptions and concerts.

The natural environment in Antalya has been preserved and expanded through provincial and national parks. These parks include City (Karaalioglu) Park, Ataturk Park, Olimpos Beydaglan National Coastal Park Gulluk Mountain (Termessos) National Park, Koprulu Canyon (Beskonak) National Park, Duden Waterfalls and Picnic Area, Lower Duden Waterfall, Kursunlu Waterfall, Duzler Cami-Guver Cliff, Kepezalti and Kepezustu Picnic and Rest Areas, 12 Eylul (Sept 12) Grove, Topcam and Bakirli Parks, Feslegen Park, Yesjl and Saklikent Plateaus, and the Saklikent Ski Center.

Antalya Museum

The Antalya Museum, founded in 1922, includes 14 exhibition halls, outdoor exhibition galleries and a library. Thanks to its special design and priceless artifacts, the museum received the special award of European Council in 1988. After the excavations in Perge, it was expanded with more halls to exhibit the unearthed artifacts. The museum is the proud owner of ethnographic artifacts beside its rich sculpture collection. By playing host to painting and photograph exhibitions, the museum offers a visual and artistic feast to visitors.

Antalya's various counties also have multifaceted tourism opportunities. Akseki County, home to the kardelen flower (snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis), displays the 13    century Grand Mosque Madrasa, trout farms, hunting grounds, and meadows.
Alanya is a county where history and the beauty of nature have joined into a cultural center. The many places of interest there include the historical Sinek Castle, Leartis-Learti (Mahmutlar Ruins), Syedra Ruins, lotape (Aytap) Port City, Alara Inn, sarapsa Caravansaray, Alanya Castle, Kizil Tower, Seljuk Dockyard, Suleymaniye (Kale) Mosque, Emir Bedruddin Mosque, Aksebe Sultan Masjid, Damlatas, Cave, Hasbahce Kadi hi Cave, Dim Cave, Korsanlar (Pirates) Cave, Ajiklar (Lovers) Cave, Fosforlu (Phosphorescent) Cave, Cleopatra Beach, Ulas Beach, and Incekum and Dogu Beaches. These attractions, as well as the mountains and plateaus provide touring venues for tourists of all ages including youth and students.

The county of Elmali, where the "Treasure of the Century" consisting of 1900 silver coins was discovered, was a Lycian habitation. Its mounds, tumuli and graves have yielded many valuable artifacts now displayed in the Antalya Museum. The impressive 13   century Seljuk Mosque, the 17*   century Omer Pas,a Mosque and a building complex adjacent to it, and Ottoman period KutiJk Mosque, Sinan-i Ummi Mosque and Bath are worth seeing.

Finike County has 30 km of sandy beaches with large and small bays, and rest areas with ewery shade of green. The ancient cities of Arykanda (Arif) and Limyra (Turungova, Zengerier) are significant historical sites.

Gazipasa County is 180 km from the city of Antalya. Its unique attractions include the ancient cities of Antiocheia Ad Gragum, Adanda-Lamos, Nephelis, Selinus, and lotape, as well as Gazipasa Ataturk Park, Karadag Forest National Park, and beaches with sunshine and golden sand including Iskele, Koru and Yahyalar.

Gundogmus County is 182 km from Antalya. Interesting places to visit include the city of Ayasofya, the rums of Asar, Kazayir and Gedfi, the Alanya - Konya Caravan Road, and the Cem Pasa Mosque. Nature lovers should visit Ibradi County with its exciting Altmbesik-Dudensuyu Cave. There are trout farms, fishing areas, trekking trails, and peaceful plateaus and rest areas.

The County of Kale (Demre) is 48 km from Kas. It is important both as a tounsm center and as an agricurtural center. The beautiful natural surroundings are filled with the aroma of orange, lemon, and tangerine trees. The ancient cities of Myra and Andriake, and the church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) are noteworthy. Myra was one of Lycia's six important cities and a prominent Chnstian center. It boasts the best examples of Lycian household graves and rock tombs. The well-preserved amphitheater was also used as a sports arena.

St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) Church

St. Nicholas, known worldwide as Santa Claus, was bom in Patara about 300 AD and lived and died in Myra. He was the son of a rich wheat merchant. After his father's death, he distributed much of his wealth to the poor. The story is told of poor family with a daughter who could not afford a dowry. In order to be inconspicuous and not embarrass them, St. Nicholas went to their house at night and threw a bag of gold for the dowry through the daughter's open window. Some time later, after she was mamed, he also wanted to help her younger sisters. However, when he arrived at the house, all of the windows were closed, so he threw the bag of gold down the chimney.

After his death, the people of Myra built a church in his honor and buried him in a sarcophagus in it. An earthquake in 529 destroyed the church, so a new, larger one was built. During the 8    century, it was damaged by more earthquakes and Arab invasions and was subsequently repaired. The Arab naval attack in 1034 left the church in ruins, but the Byzantines again repaired it in 1042. Crusaders and merchants from Ban, Italy broke open the sarcophagus in 1087 and took his bones to Bari. However, some of St. Nicholas' bones are on display at the Antalya Museum. Some additions and further repairs to the church were made in the 12    century. In the 13 century, the Turks took control of the church, while still allowing worship to freely continue. Periodic repairs continued to be carried out.

Yavu (Kyaenai)

This 4 century BC Lycian city is 23 km from Kas on the Kaj-Kale road in the village of Yavu. It is 200 meters up on top of steep boulders. It is surrounded by a 450 meter-long castle wall with three gates on the west and north sides.

There is a well-preserved amphitheater with 25 rows of seats on the southern slope of the hill. It is thought to date from the 2 century AD. You can see the ancient cities of Trysa and Apollonia and some bays from the theater. There are several large and small Roman sarcophagi in the necropolis between the theater and the acropolis. Some of them which are decorated with reliefs have been dated at 350 BC. There are also 3 century BC rock tombs and sarcophagi with reliefs and Lycian inscriptions. Other ruins in Kyaenai include the library, bath, and cistern.

Kılıncli (Apollonia)

Apollonia was founded as a member city of the Lycian Union. It is located 22 km from Kas in the village of Kilmcli. The artifacts discovered indicate a founding date in the 4*   century BC. The city was built on top of an L-shaped boulder. Some of the city walls are still standing. As you walk up toward the acropolis, you can see many different sarcophagi. Six prism-shaped grave stones among the sarcophagi are interesting. Graves with reliefs of bunches of grapes are also noteworthy. There is a Byzantine church in the city, and to the west of that, a Lycian amphitheater built into a natural hillside with ten rows of seats. There are also ruins of a bath and cisterns.

Kekova

Kekova is a natural paradise blending nature and history along the clear, blue shore with its thousands of bays. Kekova includes Ocagiz (Theimussa) on the shore, Kalekoy (Simena) which is accessible by boat, and opposite Kalekoy, Kekova Island with its Sunken City. Hundreds of yachts anchor in the unsurpassed bays of fishing villages which attract millions of local and foreign tourists each year.

Ucagiz (Theimussa),

Ancient Theimussa, 36 km from Kas, is surrounded on three sides by the sea like a natural harbor. There are pensions and restaurants in the village of Ocagiz. Although knowledge of the city's ancient history is limited, one inscription indicates that it was founded at least by the 4th century BC. The city includes ruins of many graves, a small door, and a tower built on a boulder. A household grave dating from the 4th century BC just behind the pier displays a naked boy named Kluwanimi. Just along the seashore are several Roman period sarcophagi practically built on one another.

Kalekoy (Simena)

Kalekoy, which was built over the ruins of ancient Simena, is on a peninsula, but is only accessible by sea. It is a blend of ancient and modern. Its history also dates from the 4th century BC. The underwater sarcophagus has come to represent Simena. An easy walk uphill leads you to the top of a Middle Age castle with an excellent view of Kekova Island and the beautiful bays below. Inside the castle, seven rows of seats forming a 300 seat theater have been carved out of the natural boulder. Along the shore are many household graves and a bath with an inscnption. North of the tower is a household Lycian grave with an inscription which is worth seeing.

Kekova Island (Sunken City)

The region of Kekova gets its name from this island opposite Kalekoy. It is just ten minutes offshore by boat. Boats doo at the island in Tersane Bav near an apse from a Bvzantine church. There are many ruins on the island, but its historv is not certain. Stairs lead down from the shore to the Sunken City which is visible under the clear water. Diving is no longe' Demnitted since the area became a protected national park.

Sicak Pier (Aperlai)

You can rent a boat to Sicak Pier on the Sicak Peninsula from Kas. or Ocagiz, or come by iand from ADollonia in Kilinci. The Lycian city of Aperiai has been dated to at least the 4*r or 5th century BC bv the coins which have been found. Tne ruins include city walls along the shore, three arches, a church, many sarcophagi, and a grave and pier in tne sea .

Kemer

Kemer County at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains is home to the ancient city of Phaselis. Its artifacts in tht museum, and its fine sandv beaches, water sports anc mountaineering opportunities attract many tourists. Also don't miss Mt. Olympus, the Beydaglan Mountains, and Sahi. National Park. The Turban Kemer Yacht Harbor and Kerne-Marina were awarded the Blue Flag in 1993. It is the sixtr largest vacht harbor in Turkey. It invites passengers to experience its romantic Blue Voyage Tours of the area which begin in Kemer and in Antalya. Nightlife in Kemer is alive and varied with bars, restaurants and discos

Korkuteli

Korkuteli is 68 km from Antalya. It is famous for its Seljuk structures such as the Aiaaddin Mosque with its minaret which is decorated like a carpet with rows of turquoise and green bricks. Also see the two-story Emir Sinaeddin Madrasa built by the Hamidogullan Principality in 1319 with hewn stones.

Kumluca

Kumluca County, 90 km from Antalya, attracts tourist? with its delicious regional foods like kolle and arabasi and with its archeological artifacts. Your pleasant tour may include the splendid city of Olympus, the priceless ancient city of Korydalla (Kumluca) which yielded the priceless Kumluca Treasure, partially displayed in the Antalva Museum, ancient. Rhodiapolis (Haciveliler, Jeyhkoy) with its historical buildings, ancient Idebessos, a small theater and sarcophagi.

Manavgat

The tours in Manavgat County, 75 km from Antalya, are impressive. Ancient Side is on a peninsula 400 m wide and 1000 m long. On the way to the ancient city of Selge, you pass through the enchantingly beautiful Koprfilu Canyon National Park which includes 36,000 hectares.  Here it is possible to go rafting or enjoy delicious trout. The KoprGfay River originates in the Taurus Mountains, flows through winding canyons, and empties into the Mediterranean south of Serik. The view at Manavgat Waterfall will dazzle your eyes as the delicious food tantalizes your taste buds. The ancient city of Seleucia among the pine forest and the ancient city of Etenna, famous for its coins, will complete your experience.

Serik

Serik County is 38 km from Antalya. The remains of ancient Aspendos including an amphitheater, stadium, baths, aqueduct, temple and necropolis bring history to life. The ancient city of Silyon was later inhabited by the Seljuks. Golf lovers will be happy to know that Belek in Serik County has several golf courses built to European Golf Union standards. These include Gloria Golf Club, Nobilis Golf Club, National Golf Club, and Tat International Golf Club..

Make Your Dreams Come True

We hope this information we have shared with you about Kas' tourism potential will inspire in you a desire to not just dream about these inexpressibly wonderful places, but to expenence their rich culture and natural beauty for yourself. Awaiting you in Kas, are:

• Ancient artifacts and fascinating cultural tours,
• Exciting underwater diving in the Mediterranean,
• Adventurous canoe tours,
• Trekking in harmony with nature and ecology,
• Exploration of deep, dark caves with spelunking
  equipment,
• Thnlling turquoise views of the Mediterranean while
  parachuting from cliffs,
• Blue Voyage yacht tours of islands which sit like
  jewels embedded in the sea,
• Sea food and local dishes flavored with fresh mountain
  herbs to entice your palate,
• Gombe, Elmali, Arykanda, Finike and Myra,
• Centuries of experience in beautifully varied
  handicrafts,
• Natural, historical and cultural riches, and a colorful
  rainbow of other tourism opportunities in the many
  counties of Antalya Province.

Tours in Kaş

• Kaş - Kekova (Batikşehir) - Ofagiz - Kaleköy (By boat)
• Meis Island
• Blue Cave - Kaputaj Beach - Kalkan (By boat)
• Kas, - Kalkan - Patara - Xanthos - Saklikent - Tlos
  (By bus)
• Kalkan - Bezirgan - Sutlegen - Gombe Plateaus
• Kas, - Ofagiz - Kekova - Simena
• Kas - Myra - St. Nicholas Church
• Trekking in the Taurus Mountains
• Kas - Gombe - Elmali - Arykanda - Finike - Myra
• Hunting for wild boars during the winter
• Fishing
• Jeep-safari tours in the Taurus Mountains
• Underwater diving

International Kas-Lycia Festival

The festival, held by the Municipality each year on September 1, 2, 3 and 4, aims to introduce this lovely county which has been the center of Lycian region,

Artventure-Art Adventure

In 2004 summer, a modern art exhibition named as Artventure-Art Adventure was held in three different sites which are home to historic and cultural beauties of Kas, through underwater, water surface and pathway exhibitions. The aim of the organization is to invite all nature and art lovers to Kas, every two year. (www.artventure-kas.com)

Transportation

Kas, is 192 km from the Antalya Airport, and 160 km from the Dalaman Airport. Ground transportation is usually by bus or taxi. Transportation between Kas, and various distncts is convenient. There are also regular buses from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir and Antalya to Kas

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