Turkey Holidays

The beautiful, vibrant town of Cesme is located on the western coasts of the Aegean region in Turkey. Occupying over ninety kilometers of coastline, this town is filled with luxurious resorts, centrally located hotels, and impressive restaurants. This popular holiday resort town is a well known local attraction, representing over two thirds of the area’s population. The city’s narrow streets are lined with authentic stone houses and peppered with ancient Ottoman fountains - not surprising considering Cesme literally translates into “fountain.”

Cesme’s lively downtown is dominated by the looming presence of an ancient castle built sometime in the early fourteen hundreds. It was expanded and strengthened to its present form during Ottoman occupation later in the century. Cesme Castle has been subject to several different invasions and battles over the years, and has been captured several times over. Just a few steps south of the castle is an old Ottoman Caravanseria, which was also built in the fifteenth century. The Caravanseria has been beautifully restored, presently serving as a boutique hotel.

The region surrounding Cesme is as intriguing as the town itself. For centuries, well to do citizens of Izmir, the largest metropolitan area in the Aegean region, have built country homes and secondary residences in the surrounding country side. As a result there has been a rapid growth in international investment and tourism. The once bare coastline is now conveniently lined with sate of the art marinas, restaurants, hotels and other facilities.

The rolling country side in this area is famous for its local pistachia lentiscus tree which produces a multi purpose resin. The resin is most commonly used for making preparations such as jams, desserts, ice cream, and even a delicious sauce which compliments fish dishes. The area’s geological conditions are perfect for cultivating the pistachia lentiscus, a fact that has many locals working to increase the tree’s natural population.

Cesme’s gorgeous beaches are protected from high seas by a series of beautiful harbours and islands. The calm conditions of the water provide an ideal environment for the incredible diversity of fish which thrive there in great quantities. Vacationers can also spend time relaxing in the natural, therapeutic thermal springs commonly found along the coasts of Turkey. With all of the exciting activities available in Cesme, and so many unique sights to see in the surrounding area, it’s clear why this coastal region attracts crowds year after year.