The lively city of Antalya, the starting point of our voyage, is worth a visit for its charming restored old town, enclosed by ancient Roman walls. The characteristic tourist port, nestled under the walls, is the heart of the Kaleici district. From here, among cobbled streets and suggestive views, you reach Cumburiyet Caddesi, a splendid panoramic terrace over the gulf. Not far away is the famous Yivli Minare, the iconic fluted minaret.
To the east of the city lies a charming stretch of coast, carved by rivers that flow into the sea in spectacular waterfalls. Continuing along the coast, you reach the Kekova area, rich in underwater archaeological finds. Here you can admire the remains of ancient cities sunk into the sea due to earthquakes and ground movements. At the entrance to the harbour, you can see the evocative Byzantine castle of Kale Köy. Once you have moored your boat, it is worth climbing the hill to visit the Lycian necropolis, overlooking the sea and surrounded by centuries-old olive trees. A little further on, a staircase leads directly into the water, connecting the mainland to the submerged ruins. The tombs, both Lycian and Byzantine, emerge partly above and partly below the surface of the water. The climb to the castle is steep, but is rewarded with a splendid view of the island and the gulf, as well as the remains of a small theatre and numerous rock sarcophagi, still extraordinarily intact.
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