#LAMARCAESCAPES GÖCEK By Gigi Erdogan

Göcek is a spectacular holiday destination in the South of Turkey, located in the Province of Mugla. It is a very popular spot for those who love sailing, yatchmen and, of course, any visitor who enjoys the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Göcek has been declared an area under special protection (since 1988) as it is surrounded by beautiful coves and small islands. Explore this wellness guide by Gigi Erdogan to plan your escape to one of the most beautiful gems in the Mediterranean Coast!

WHAT TO DO: The main activities include sailing, paddle boarding, hiking (following some of the paths of the Lycian Way), yoga, and paragliding.

Best Bays & Islands: As a sailing paradise, Göcek Gulf has more than 200 bays and many islands where you can enjoy the beautiful sea, nature and the ancient ruins while cruising. Some of the most popular bays and islands are:

• Bedri Rahmi Bay
• Cleopatra (Hamam) Bay
• Boynuzbuku Bay
• Gobun Bay
• Yavansu Cove
• Yassica Island
• Tersane Island
• Merdivenli Bay

WHERE TO EAT:

• West Cafe: A hearty Turkish breakfast in Göcek's Center.

• Can Restaurant:  Great for dinner in Göcek Center.

• Adaia (Hamam Bay): Best facilities and restaurant.

• Zeytin Restaurant (Bedri Rahmi Bay)

• Gobun Restaurant (Gobun Bay)

• Kucuk Sarsala Restaurant

Best places to buy organic food:

• Gocek Center: It is full of organic markets that bring all their fruits and vegetables from the little Mediterraenen villages around. Just take a walk around and you will find many on your way. Summer time figs are a must!

• Farmer’s Market: Held on Sundays in Göcek Center.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Rent a sailboat or a motor yacht

• Rixos Premium

• D-Resort

• Rent a villa. This is quite common to do when visiting.

WHERE TO SHOP:

• Erw’s

• Lukka Design Store, Zeytin

• Bazaar Anatolia

• Epoca Carpet

• A private villa’s garden for Turkish Rugs (in the center)

WHY I LOVE IT: This place has been very special for me and my family for the past 12 years considering we are all obsessed with sailing! We call it our second home since we always spend a big part of our summer here. Göcek Bay actually has more than 200 bays and many islands in itself, so it’s quite difficult to get bored there! It really is one of the most beautiful gems you can visit in the Mediterranean Coast. Even though the town itself is quite small, it has many lovely boutiques and restaurants to offer. My personal favorite things to do before we sail away is always to go on Kaftan hunting in the local stores and to visit the local farmer’s markets to get some fresh fruits, especially figs!