IN THE KINGDOM OF ALMONDS

In the southwest of Türkiye, in the picturesque province of Muğla, lies one of the country's most beautiful and emerging resorts—Datça. This charming corner of the Aegean Sea region attracts tourists with its unique blend of natural beauty, historical heritage, and modern comfort. Datça is gradually evolving into one of the most sought-after destinations for those seeking solitude, active recreation, and cultural immersion.

Datça Is Not A Datcha

Datça is situated on a peninsula bordered by the Aegean Sea on both sides. This strategically advantageous feature provides the resort with a unique microclimate that is moderately warm and sunny, making it an excellent place to relax year-round. Scenic bays line the coastline, surrounded by green cliffs that create ideal conditions for swimming and water sports. 

One of Datça's highlights is its beaches. The shallow sandy and pebble beaches with crystal-clear, slightly cool waters allow tourists to fully enjoy their seaside experience. The coastal area features many attractive coves with transparent waters. Additionally, the resort is known for its natural trails and forested areas, perfect for hiking and cycling. 

Guides often compare Datça to famous resorts in Türkiye. Promotional brochures highlight that Datça offers a more relaxing atmosphere and unique nature while maintaining high standards of service and comfort. Many travellers recommend Datça to those searching for less crowded, authentic Turkish resorts where nature, history, and culture intertwine. 

Datça is not only a natural paradise but also an important historical centre. The surrounding area is home to the ruins of ancient cities that represent a significant part of Türkiye's cultural heritage. In particular, the city of Knidos was one of the largest cultural and trading centres of antiquity, and its ruins continue to attract archaeologists and tourists alike. Historical landmarks such as the amphitheatre and the Temple of Aphrodite provide insight into the region's glorious past. 

Another historical feature is the traditional Turkish architecture evident in the old houses and narrow streets of Datça. The locals take great care to preserve and maintain these traditions, adding a distinctive charm to the resort. 

This area is a paradise for active vacationers. In Datça, you can engage in a variety of water sports, including surfing, diving, kayaking, and yachting. The natural trails are perfect for trekking and cycling, while the excellent stargazing conditions make the night sky above Datça a frequent draw for amateur astronomers. 

For those who prefer a more relaxing holiday, various spa treatments and soothing massages are available. Local spa centres utilize natural products and oils sourced from the region (such as olives and almonds).

In The Almond Kingdom

Almonds hold a special place in this resort due to several key factors associated with the region's climate, history, and culture. First, the mild climate creates ideal conditions for almond cultivation. The warm winters and long summer months contribute to high-quality growth. Second, almonds have a rich history here, with cultivation and usage rooted in ancient times. Local farmers have preserved traditions and processing methods passed down through generations. For many residents, almonds are an essential agricultural crop that provides stable income and supports the regional economy. Third, almonds play a significant role in local cuisine and culinary traditions, being used in various dishes and desserts.

This is why almonds are utilized in everything here—from ice cream to perfume. They are made into jams, sweets, flour, oil, milk, paste, refreshing cocktails, liqueurs, honey-almond gözleme (flatbreads), and even coffee. On the streets, you can often find vendors selling iced almonds. This treat called buzlu badem (Datça) has recently gained popularity both in Datça itself and at nearby resorts.

Almond oil is used in both cooking and cosmetics due to its nourishing properties and beneficial elements. In cooking, it is used for desserts and dishes such as baklava, lokum (Turkish delight), and kurabiye (cookies), as well as in pies. Almond paste is widely used in confectionery products, imparting a unique flavour. Almonds are also incorporated into sauces and seasoning served with meat and vegetable dishes, adding distinctive taste and texture.

Products made from almonds can frequently be found in tourist shops. For example, a package of almond kurabiye (250 g) costs 120 lira (€3.50), while a packet of almond coffee (100 g) is priced at 100 lira (€2.80). In bars and cafes, an almond refreshing cocktail costs 170 lira, or you can enjoy either hot or cold almond coffee for 75-100 lira.

Heading To The Resort

Depending on your location, budget, and preferences, you can choose the most convenient way to reach Datça—by plane, bus, ferry, car rental, or tour—all of which will allow you to truly enjoy your journey to this picturesque corner of Türkiye.

The nearest airport, Bodrum-Milas, is located about 60 km from Datça. The travel time from the airport by bus or taxi takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Dalaman Airport is much farther away—around 150 km—making Milas the better choice.

Intercity buses can take you from Istanbul to Datça in 11-13 hours, from Ankara in 10-12 hours, or from Izmir in 4-5 hours. Marmaris is the closest city (71 km away), reachable in about an hour and a half.

Another convenient route is by ferry from Bodrum. Ferries depart daily from its harbour at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. A one-way trip costs 550 lira; purchasing a round-trip ticket will cost 1000 lira. Experienced travellers board the ferry early to secure the best seats since shade on the open deck is essential during hot summer days. Closed decks on older ferries can be quite stuffy; hence savvy passengers prefer sitting outside to catch the sea breeze.

Some tourists also transport their cars or motorcycles on the ferry to explore the peninsula at their own pace.

Upon arrival at Datça port, you will find a free shuttle bus that will take you to the centre of the peninsula. These shuttles return to the ferry terminal an hour before departure. Many tourists choose day trips that return by 6:00 PM; each one-way journey lasts about 1.5 hours.

If you are on the Greek island of Rhodes during summer, ferries also run to Datça from there. However, due to the distance of 121 km, the journey takes more than three hours.

Old Datça—The Most Popular Gathering Spot

Just a 15-minute drive from the resort centre lies Eski Datça (Old Datça). This area has become immensely popular among tourists. It has been developed similarly to another Turkish resort—Alaçatı—located near Çeşme. 

Old Datça retains many historic houses and narrow streets that create a sense of stepping back in time. Additionally, it features numerous tastefully decorated authentic cafes, bars, souvenir shops, boutiques, and hotels. The design of buildings adorned with bougainvillea and interesting restaurant menus provide plenty of picturesque spots for memorable vacation photos—everything designed to please tourists' eyes. Here you will also find shops offering local products made with olive oil and almonds.

A stroll through this popular tourist attraction can take a couple of hours. During this time, you can snap photos at numerous points of interest while browsing shops or trying local goat milk ice cream (75 lira). Most tourists opt for this experience. However, if you wish to dine or enjoy refreshing or hot beverages, you will need more time since prices tend to be quite steep compared to nearby Marmaris and Bodrum.

From the center of Datça, you can reach Old Datça by taxi in a maximum of 10 minutes or by bus from the central port in about 20 minutes. Keep in mind that dolmuş (shared taxis) operate irregularly—even in central areas—approximately every hour and a half at a fare of 24 lira. If you have tickets for specific ferry or intercity bus departures, ensure you allocate ample time for your journey back and forth; otherwise, you will need to rely solely on taxis to reach the port or bus station.

Expensive Hotels

Although Datça is relatively new as a resort destination, accommodation prices here are comparable to those at well-established vacation spots across Türkiye. You can find options for every budget—ranging from simple hotels to five-star establishments; from affordable apartments to luxurious villas—and prices can vary significantly depending on the season, location, level of comfort, availability of an all-inclusive meal plan (which is not very popular here), and services offered.

For instance, prices for two people at basic budget accommodations without breakfast start at around €55-60. These hotels typically offer minimal amenities and are located farther away from beaches or tourist centres. Considering the weak public transportation infrastructure in this area, such options may not always suit budget-conscious travellers.

Mid-range hotels generally provide more comfortable rooms with breakfast included; many also have pools along with some additional services available. In this category, prices for double rooms range from €80 to €170; these hotels are usually situated within city limits close to beaches while some feature fitness centres or offer spa treatments as well. For those who prefer an all-inclusive option but wish to spend less than €150 (for two), finding such accommodations may prove challenging.

The resort also features luxury hotels that offer high-quality service along with exclusive amenities often located in prestigious areas or directly on the coast. Room rates at these hotels average between €220-280 during peak season.

You can also find apartments that provide a more homely atmosphere—ideal for couples or extended stays. Studios and one-bedroom apartments can often be found for €50-80; two- and three-bedroom options (sometimes with access to shared pools) typically range from €75-130 euros per night. If you seek privacy along with additional space, renting a villa or cottage with its own pool may cost between €120-250 per day depending on size, level of luxury, and location.

Do keep in mind that accommodation prices during low seasons (fall-winter-spring) may be significantly lower.

Pristine Beaches

Tourists generally prefer visiting Datça between April and October. The best time for beach activities and swimming is from June through August; those seeking a quieter holiday appreciate September and October visits instead. However, note that during fall or spring months, water temperatures at Datça beaches—which are already cool during summer (21-22 degrees)—may only suit tourists from northern European countries.

There is no shortage of beaches on the peninsula. Near the centre (to the right of the port) are two of the most popular beaches: Kumluk and Taşlık. Kumluk features sandy areas with shallow waters alongside several restaurants and cafes. Taşlık beach has rocky terrain but boasts crystal-clear waters along with stunning views; it’s also known for featuring a thermal lake right by the shore where fish swim amid waters merging seamlessly with the sea.

Kargı Bay lies just 3 km from down-town; this secluded cove is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and hills featuring a small pebble beach alongside crystal-clear waters. A few kilometres from Kargı lies Aquarium Beach renowned for its extraordinarily clear water (resembling an aquarium)—an ideal spot for swimming while observing underwater life.

The famous Armutlu Bay—a small picturesque cove nestled within mountains westward from Armutlu Point—is celebrated for its clear waters rivalling those at Aquarium Beach alongside breathtaking natural scenery making it one of Datça’s best diving spots.

Aktur beaches are located about 30 km from Datça centre encompassing Çiftlik Bay and Kovanlık Bay surrounded by mountains; these beaches consist of sand mixed with pebbles while water displays aquamarine shades.

Datça hosts numerous other popular beaches including Hayıtbükü, Ovabükü Palamutbükü, Karaincir, Kurubük, Lindos, and so on.

Datça serves as an example illustrating how a small corner can transform into a prominent sought-after tourist hub while maintaining its uniqueness and ambiance intact. The combination of magnificent natural landscapes rich historical heritage combined modern comforts makes it one Türkiye’s most beloved vacation spots. Very soon Datça may become even more appealing destination for tourists seeking perfect place relax rejuvenate themselves harmoniously connecting nature culture this beautiful country .