Dalaman

The tranquil seaside villages and vibrant harbourside towns snuggled between the lushly forested hills of the Lycian Coast make the Dalaman region one of Turkey's top tourism picks. Small enough to feel intimate but with a host of resort perks, the Efe Hotel (Yarpız Sokak) in Göcek, 25km from Dalaman Airport, is a luxurious retreat. Seclusion though doesn't have to cost the earth. In the tiny hamlet of Kayaköy, 65km from the airport, family-run Villa Rhapsody (Kayaköy) offers guests a soothing respite from life. On a budget, head to Fethiye, 50km from Dalaman Airport, where Ferah Pension (Ordu Caddesi 23) is a favourite for its leafy terrace, little swimming pool and tidy rooms.

Head to the bazaar at Fethiye (between Karagözler Caddesi and Belediye Caddesi) for some local trinkets, a market that also houses plenty of “designer” wares. Seek out the Old Orient Carpet and Kilim Bazaar (Karagözler Caddesi 5) for a Turkish carpet, or the village of Göcek for high quality boutique stores.

Göcek serves up the Can Restaurant (Skopea Marina) for a spot of fine dining where the seafood comes highly recommended. There’s plenty of options in Fethiye, including The Fish Market (Belediye Caddesi) for superb fresh seafood. Inside the town’s market you’ll find the excellent value Meǧri Lokantasi (Çarşı Caddesi) for meze platters, while there are many bars around to choose from. Head 15km south to the beach town of Ölüdeniz and try Help Lounge Bar (Sokak 1), which is a highly popular spot.

Üzümlü Mushroom Festival

April

This local festival in the village of Üzümlü celebrates the rare and coveted morel mushrooms that grow in the area. Expect folk dancing to go along with plenty of fungi flavoured treats such as mushroom soups and gözleme, a variety of Turkish pancake.

Kaya Connections Festival

April-May

Salute the region’s rich and diverse history at this literary and cultural festival that spans five days. Head to Kayaköy and enjoy the film screenings, talks, culinary events and walks that are enhanced by the works of famous historians and writers.

Dalaman Culture Festival

May

Head to Dalaman Town and take in the local folk dance performances over five days, punctuated by lashings of local rock music.

Caretta Caretta Festival

June

The caretta caretta turtle nests in the area of Dalyon. Over three days locals celebrate with traditional folk music, Turkish pop concerts and dancing.

Ölüdeniz Air Games

October

Base jumping and acrobatic paragliding signal the end of Ölüdeniz’s paragliding season each year. Enjoy the spectacular aerial displays and live music at one of the world’s top paragliding destinations.