Situated on the Dalyan river, midway between Lake Köyceğiz and Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan town lies within the Köycegiz Dalyan Special Protected Area. Located on the south-western Turkish coast, the protected area includes a fresh water lake, twelve kilometres of Mediterranean coastline and spectacular pine forested hills, and has been protected since the late 1980s, when a number of environmentalists successfully protested against a proposed hotel development on Iztuzu beach.

The development would have disturbed one of the most important breeding sites of the caretta caretta (loggerhead) turtles that can be spotted in the surrounding estuary, lagoon and wetlands.

This gives Dalyan a different, more relaxed vibe compared to many other Turkish resorts, consisting mostly of private villas and smaller boutique hotels. The town has retained much of its charm from when it was a sleepy fishing and farming village and visitors can expect a warm welcome from their Turkish hosts.

Whether you want to enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine in the wonderful riverside restaurants, grab a drink whilst taking in views of the Lycian rock tombs, relax on a boat as it winds its way down the river to the coast, take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, explore the ancient ruins of Kaunos, visit the mud-baths and thermal springs, wander around the local markets and shops, take a trip out to surrounding towns, see the famous Turtle Sanctuary, go on a jeep safari, cruise around the 12 Islands or just chill out by the pool, Dalyan has it all to offer and more.