After an amazing few days in Antalya’s Kaleici I was keen to explore more of the Turkish coast/rivera. Kas (Kaş), a small seaside town, was next on my list. And with the Kekova sunken city nearby, diving in Kas and kayaking in Kekova was on my list to do.
Kas is approx. 200km from Antalya and known for its turquoise waters and great diving locations. The town also occupies the site of ancient Antiphellos, with plenty of ruins and an Amphitheater (of course). So, following the windy coastal road I sat 4 hours in a bus with the locals. Besides stopping quite a few times to pick up and drop off locals, the ride was pretty good and safe (nothing like back then in Laos).
Surrounded by very tall mountains and along the popular hiking trail, the ’Lycian Way’, I had a great feeling about Kas as soon as I arrived. And after my first discovery walk I found the perfect Hotel to base myself for the next week.
I walked along the yacht club, swam in the Mediterranean Sea and browsed the local markets. Let’s say after a few days I was already a local with the locals.
Diving in Kas
It was time for a new activity. My second DSD (Discover Scuba Dive) this year.
I can’t believe my first diving experience in Egypt was at the beginning of this year already.
As mentioned, Kas is a very popular diving destination, but for me it was just about exploring a different diving area than the corals of Egypt. Due to being a beginner, I can’t go very deep, so I can’t comment on the wrecks that there are to see. I just enjoyed the overall experience. What a fun morning diving in Kas!
Kayaking in Kekova
About 40 kilometres south of Kas lies the very hard to get to, and very tiny fishing village, Kekova (Kalekoy). It peaked my interest when I read that there is a sunken city just below the water. Let’s go!
Apparently (as many told me), the only way to get to Kekova and the sunken city is via a boat. Or better said, via a tour boat. And as I am still not a big fan of sitting on a tour boat for hours, I explored other options. Furthermore I had no desire to walk the Lycian hiking trail either (which you can do apparently).
So I went for option three. Hiring a scooter and finding my own way there! It was approx. 50km one way.
I drove as far as the road took me, to a deserted car park (although it’s probably packed in high season), just behind the Simena Castle in Kalekoy.
Kalekoy village
All I had to do is to walk over the castle hill to get to the tiny village. There was really nobody around so I hoped I took the right path, but you can’t miss the castle. After 500m I reached the top and some randomly spread ancient tombs, before walking down the stairs into the village. Besides a few ‘older’ locals trying to sell me souvenirs and ice cream, there was still nobody else around. I felt like I just found a secret forgotten place.
I found a local lady who spoke English well enough to rent me a kayak and off I went, kayaking above the sunken city of Kekova. Well, I didn’t go too far out (apparently that wasn’t recommended on the kayak) but it was fun nevertheless. A quick lunch and some goat’s milk ice cream (it’s a ‘must do‘ apparently), I made my way back to Kas.
Just in time to watch the sunset from the amphitheater.
This week has definitely been amazing. I am not sure whether it can be topped!
Travel tip
Whether it is diving in Kas, snorkeling or just relaxing, Kas is a great spot to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea! So make sure to stop here. The water really can’t be any bluer. And in late October/early November you are without the usual holiday crowds and the summer heat (who wants to be here in 45 degrees?). Not to mention the off peak pricing.
