From Göcek to Göcek Including Greece.

Crossing into Greece, head to Rhodes, the jewel of the Dodecanese, is a living tapestry of myth and history. Once home to the Colossus. The Colossus is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the island still dazzles with its medieval Old Town, Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins. Beyond its storied past, Rhodes offers golden beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant culture of kitesurfing, diving, and hiking trails. Whether exploring ancient streets or retreating to secluded coves, Rhodes makes for an unforgettable first stop.

Symi is a small island with big charm, its amphitheater harbor lined with colorful neoclassical houses rising up the hillside. Quiet, picturesque, and steeped in authenticity, Symi is perfect for those seeking a slower rhythm. The highlight is the Monastery of Panormitis, a revered pilgrimage site, while hidden beaches and crystal waters invite lazy afternoons in complete tranquility.

Crossing back into Turkey, Bodrum delivers a heady blend of past and present. Once known as Halicarnassus, the city was home to the Mausoleum of Mausolus, another Wonder of the Ancient World. Today, Bodrum Castle and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology guard the harbor, while cobblestoned alleys of whitewashed houses lead to chic boutiques and lively cafes. The peninsula offers both glamorous beach clubs and hidden turquoise coves, making Bodrum the perfect fusion of ancient wonder and modern luxury.

Tucked between Marmaris and Dalyan, Ekincik is a peaceful bay surrounded by pine forests and long golden beaches. It’s the gateway to the ancient ruins of Kaunos, where rock-cut Lycian tombs gaze down from the cliffs. The quiet waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the tranquil setting invites rest and reflection after a day of exploring.

Fethiye, once ancient Telmessos, is a bustling town that has lost none of its historic charm. Overlooked by a fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes and surrounded by cliffs carved with Lycian tombs, Fethiye is a gateway to both culture and nature. Its beaches range from lively stretches with watersports to serene bays for swimming, and its marina hums with international yachts. With white sands, turquoise seas, and rich history, Fethiye captures the essence of the Turkish coast.

Legend has it Marc Antony built Cleopatra’s Bath as a gift for his queen, importing golden sand from Egypt. Whether myth or truth, the ruins of the ancient baths still stand above the pristine waters, fed by nearby thermal springs. Swimming here feels like stepping into history, with crystal-clear waters framed by pine forests and mountain views.

Known as Dockyard Island, Tersane is the largest in Fethiye Bay and a fascinating blend of nature and history. Once a base for Ottoman fleets, the island is dotted with Byzantine churches, Lycian ruins, and crumbling stone houses. Its shallow, sheltered cove glows in shades of turquoise, perfect for anchoring overnight. Snorkel among submerged ruins and imagine the centuries of sailors who once repaired ships here.

Göcek, with its world-class marinas and laid-back sophistication, is a favorite among yacht owners and celebrities. Despite its popularity, it has retained its authentic charm, with a small-town atmosphere and easy access to the famed 12 Islands. Pine forests, pristine bays, and crystal waters make this a snorkeling and swimming paradise. As your journey ends, Göcek offers the perfect mix of history, nature, and cosmopolitan flair.