Icmeler (pronounced Each-mel-urgh) is a popular Turkish resort that’s seen as the quieter alternative to Marmaris. Just 5 miles down the road from the livelier and busier Marmaris, Icmeler is a great place to stay if you want some peace and quiet with the option of sampling the nightlife on your cheap Turkey holidays. That’s not to say that Icmeler doesn’t have a nightlife of its own, it’s just that all entertainment - with the exception of two nightclubs – stops at midnight, something that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Icmeler’s markets are a popular attraction, while its golden beaches are the shore to the sparkling seas of the Mediterranean and Aegean. Not too far out to be isolated but far enough to not be involved, Icmeler is a great choice for all inclusive Turkey holidays.
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A nice enough beach to be regarded as one of the best in the Marmaris region, Icmeler’s eponymous beach is a lovely stretch of golden sand surrounding by beautiful scenery. The gorgeous deep blue sea offsets the sand perfectly, and the beach is as calm and serene a place to relax and catch some rays as anywhere in Turkey. Many holidaymakers staying in the busier resort of Marmaris take a scenic walk to Icmeler to enjoy the beach. Once you’re there, you won’t be wondering why.
Cheap Turkey holidays are renowned for the markets and bazaars they offer, and a jaunt to Icmeler doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Every Wednesday the sellers set out their stalls flogging whatever they can, be it counterfeit designer wear, pleasant souvenirs or marvellously decorated pottery. It’s worth walking deeper into the market because the goods tend to be a bit more expensive on the periphery.
You might think that if you wanted to visit Marmaris that you would’ve booked to go there in the first place and therefore suggesting a visit is futile. You’d be wrong to think that however, Icmeler isn’t a hive of activity in the evening and even with its charms may leave you feeling a little underwhelmed. This will be fine most evenings but if you get the urge to have a lively night out in a busy resort, then visiting nearby Marmaris is a must. There are plenty of bars and clubs open ‘til the early hours, while the number of restaurants it boasts could make it worth having a meal before your big night. What better way then, to enjoy a heavy night out than to counter it with a day of blissful peace and quiet like you’re promised in Icmeler?
For a great day out on your Icmeler holidays, you can’t go wrong with a lovely boat trip along the Aegean. Trips can take you to a number of places that’ll provide you with activities and sights as you go. For example if you take the trip to Dalyan, you’ll stop off at Turtle Beach and pass the incredible Lycian tombs cut into sheer rock face along the Dalyan River.
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Explore Icmeler’s Mountain Surroundings
Icmeler’s verdant mountain surroundings are an incredible backdrop to the quaint resort. If you’re feeling adventurous, the mountains can be explored in numerous ways. There are quad biking tours for the adrenaline junkies, jeep safaris for those who’d rather have the navigating done for them and good old fashioned walking routes for the sunshine alpinists!
Essential info
Currency: Turkish Lira
Language: Turkish
Visa: 90 day multiple entry visa for UK citizens available upon arrival
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A is recommended.
Dress code: Cover up arms and legs when visiting Mosques.
Important numbers: Embassy: 0207 393 0202, Tourist Office: 0207 839 7778
Other info: N/A