Antalya
Antalya: Where the Turquoise Coast Meets Timeless History & Modern Luxury
Escape to Antalya, the radiant heart of the Turkish Riviera, where breath-taking natural beauty converges with millennia of history and the finest contemporary comforts. Perfectly positioned on the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, Antalya offers a sophisticated and diverse holiday experience, easily accessible with convenient flights from the UK.
Immerse Yourself in Coastal Splendour: Discover miles of stunning coastline, from the golden sands of Lara Beach, famed for its luxurious themed resorts and exclusive beach clubs, to the vibrant Konyaaltı Beach, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Charter a private gulet for the day and explore secluded coves with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling in serene privacy. The coastline here isn't just beautiful; it's a lifestyle.
Step Back Through Ancient Civilisations: Antalya is steeped in history. Wander the enchanting, atmospheric lanes of Kaleiçi, the meticulously preserved Old Town. Here, Roman walls encircle Ottoman-era mansions (many now charming boutique hotels), alongside Hadrian's Gate, a magnificent triumphal arch dating back to 130 AD. Venture beyond the city to explore world-class archaeological sites like the grand Roman theatre of Aspendos, still used for performances today, and the sprawling ancient city of Perge, offering a captivating glimpse into the past.
Indulge in Unrivalled Luxury & Relaxation: Antalya and its surrounding regions, particularly Belek (a short drive away), are synonymous with world-class luxury. Choose from opulent five-star resorts offering impeccable service, gourmet dining experiences showcasing Turkish and international cuisine, lavish spa facilities for ultimate pampering, and championship golf courses that rank among Europe's best. Enjoy sophisticated evenings at chic rooftop bars overlooking the harbour or indulge in bespoke shopping experiences.
Adventure & Nature's Majesty: Beyond the beaches and history, Antalya is a gateway to natural wonders. The majestic Taurus Mountains provide a stunning backdrop and offer opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, or exploring hidden canyons like Köprülü Canyon National Park, where you can even try white-water rafting. Witness the spectacular Düden Waterfalls cascading directly into the Mediterranean Sea – a truly unforgettable sight.
Your Perfect Turkish Escape: Whether you seek sun-drenched relaxation on pristine beaches, exploration of ancient wonders, indulgent pampering, or thrilling adventures, Antalya delivers. Its unique blend of breath-taking scenery, rich cultural tapestry, and exceptional luxury make it an unparalleled destination.
Antalya Beckons: Discovering Your Perfect Season on the Turquoise Coast
Timing is everything for the perfect luxury escape. Let us guide you to Antalya's most enchanting seasons.
Escape to Antalya's Allure
Nestled on the breath-taking Turkish Riviera, Antalya is a captivating blend of sun-drenched beaches, ancient wonders, and sophisticated modern luxury. From exploring millennia-old ruins under azure skies to teeing off on world-class golf courses and sailing turquoise waters, Antalya offers year-round indulgence. But when is the perfect time for your bespoke journey? While blessed with over 300 days of sunshine, certain seasons truly elevate the experience for the discerning traveller.
The Sweet Spots: Spring & Autumn Splendour (April-May & September-October)
For the ultimate balance of glorious weather, comfortable exploration, and fewer crowds, the spring and autumn months are undeniably Antalya's prime time.
Spring (April-May): Witness the coast burst into bloom. Temperatures are delightfully mild (averaging 17-25°C), ideal for discovering the captivating history of Kaleiçi (Old Town), the grandeur of Perge and Aspendos, or hiking scenic trails – all without the intensity of the summer sun. The sea is refreshing, warming nicely by late May, perfect for that first dip or a leisurely yacht excursion.
Autumn (September-October): Many consider this the pinnacle season. The summer heat softens to a blissful warmth (averaging 22-28°C), while the Mediterranean Sea retains its inviting heat (around 24-26°C) – perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and extended days at exclusive beach clubs or aboard a private gulet charter. It's also peak season for golf in nearby Belek, offering superb conditions on championship courses. The dwindling crowds allow for a more serene appreciation of Antalya's charms.
The Vibrant Summer Sun (June – August)
If guaranteed sunshine and lazy days spent lounging by the pool or sea are your priority, summer delivers. Expect long, hot, sunny days (temperatures often soaring above 30-35°C) and the warmest sea temperatures (up to 29°C). While this is peak season with a vibrant atmosphere and bustling energy, our curated selection of luxury resorts provides tranquil havens. We recommend early morning or late afternoon excursions to historical sites and embracing refreshing activities like private boat trips during the midday heat. For keen golfers, many Belek courses offer floodlit evening play.
The Tranquil Winter Escape (November – March)
Seeking a peaceful escape from the UK's grey skies? Antalya's winter offers mild days (averaging 10-15°C) compared to home, ideal for uncrowded cultural immersion. Explore ancient sites at your own pace, wander through atmospheric bazaars, or indulge in the spa facilities at your luxury hotel. While not traditional beach weather (sea temperatures are cooler, around 16-18°C), it's a fantastic time for golfers seeking value and readily available tee times (though be prepared for occasional rain, especially December-January).
When visiting Antalya, indulging in the local cuisine is a must! While the region offers a wide array of delicious Turkish food, here are three standout dishes particularly associated with Antalya that you should try:
Tahinli Piyaz (Antalya-Style Bean Salad with Tahini): While piyaz (a white bean salad) is found across Türkiye, the Antalya version is unique and famous for its addition of tahini (sesame paste). This gives the salad a creamy, nutty richness that sets it apart. It typically includes white beans, onions, tomatoes, parsley, and often a hard-boiled egg, all brought together with the distinctive tahini, lemon juice, and vinegar dressing. It's often served as a main dish or alongside grilled meats.
Şiş Köfte (Grilled Meatball Skewers): This is often served as a perfect pairing with Tahinli Piyaz. These aren't just any meatballs; they are typically made from minced lamb or beef mixed simply with salt and perhaps some herbs, formed onto skewers, and expertly grilled over charcoal for a juicy, smoky flavour. They are usually served with flatbread, grilled peppers, and tomatoes. The combination of the flavourful köfte and the creamy piyaz is a classic Antalya experience.
Tahinli Kabak Tatlısı (Pumpkin Dessert with Tahini): To complete the local culinary journey, this unique dessert is a must-try. Tender pieces of pumpkin are slowly cooked and candied in sugar syrup until soft and sweet. What makes the Antalya version special is the generous drizzle of tahini over the top, along with a sprinkle of crushed walnuts. The earthy sweetness of the pumpkin combined with the nutty tahini creates a surprisingly delicious and memorable flavour profile.
Trying this trio – the Şiş Köfte, Tahinli Piyaz, and Tahinli Kabak Tatlısı – offers a true taste of Antalya's unique culinary identity.