The lavender fields of Isparta
Nestled in the heart of Türkiye’s flower-growing region, Isparta,the ‘Lavender Village’, comes alive in the summer months.
Between June and July, fields surrounding the village bloom with lavender, filling the air with its scent and creating a dreamy purple landscape that continues for miles.
Wandering through the fields of flowers set against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains makes for a scenic day trip, and visitors can also participate in lavender harvesting, or oil and soap-making workshops.
Don’t miss a chance to taste the local produce too - fragrant lavender tea and ice cream are sold at cafes in the village.
Saklıkent Gorge: dramatic landscapes
Deep in the Muğla province, Saklıkent Gorge is one of Türkiye’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This 18-kilometre-long gorge is carved into the mountainside by the flowing waters of the Eşen River, creating a dramatic landscape, complete with narrow passageways and towering cliffs.
Visitors can hike through the gorge, wade through its cool waters, and enjoy being surrounded by nature.
The area is known for its dense red pine forests, which are home to foxes, badgers, wild boars, and brown bears, while eagles can often be seen soaring overhead. Naturally, it’s a great spot for wildlife-spotting and nature photography.
For the more adventurous adrenaline-seekers, there are opportunities to try canyoning, rafting and zip-lining across the gorge.
İğneada Floodplain Forests: a wildlife paradise
İğneada, located along the northern coast of Türkiye, is home to one of the country’s most unique and peaceful natural landscapes: the İğneada Floodplain Forests. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is an ecological paradise, featuring wetlands, marshlands, and forests.
The area is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, home to migratory birds, including herons, swans, and storks. It’s a dream destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
The forest is an ideal place to unwind and experience the unspoiled beauty of Türkiye’s Black Sea region, as visitors can hike along the tranquil trails, enjoy boat rides through the surrounding lakes, and take in the serenity of the landscape.
Cunda Island: experience the quiet life
Cunda Island, also known as Alibey Island, is a charming and unspoiled destination located just off the coast of Ayvalık in the Balıkesir province.
Unlike more popular islands in the Aegean, Cunda remains relatively under the radar, making it the perfect getaway for travellers looking to explore a quieter side of Türkiye. The island is known for its well-preserved Rum (antaolian greek) architecture, with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed stone houses, and vibrant bougainvillaea.
Cunda is also famous for its delicious Aegean cuisine, often prepared with the region’s distinctive herbs and olive oil. Grilled octopus and papalina (small fried fish) are among the tastiest local specialities – the fish and seafood here are said to be some of Türkiye’s finest.
Visitors can wander the charming streets, visit the historic Taksiyarhis Church, or relax on the island’s picturesque beaches.
Mardin: step into the past in Anatolia
Visiting southeastern Türkiye’s Mardin feels like stepping back in time. Perched on the edge of the Mesopotamian plains, the city is known for its ancient stone buildings, narrow winding streets, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mardin’s architecture reflects a rich blend of Assyrian/Syriac, Arab, Kurdish, and Turkish influences, offering a glimpse into the region’s complex history and cultural heritage.
One of the most striking features of Mardin is its Old Town, where you can wander through centuries-old mosques, monasteries, and caravanserais, all built with the warm golden-hued limestone unique to the area.
The city is also known for its rich culinary traditions, including savoury dishes such as kibbeh (meatballs) and Mardin pilaf (seasoned rice) as well as traditional sweets.
Lake Salda, Burdur: Türkiye’s Maldives
Lake Salda is often referred to as the ‘Maldives of Türkiye,’ due to its striking white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Far from the more crowded beaches of Antalya, this stunning area around a crater lake remains largely undeveloped, and visitors can swim in the mineral-rich waters, relax on the pristine shoreline, or explore the surrounding pine forests.
Famously, Lake Salda’s geology has much in common with Mars, with many of its carbonate minerals similar to those on the planet’s Jezero Crater.