Dalyan

Dalyan is described as a gem of turkey, situated at the southeast of Mugla, named after the river which links Lake Koycegiz to the Mediterranean. The channels of the river wind through the reed beds of the estuary amidst spectacular breathtaking mountain scenery. Dalyan, according to the local Tourism Office is one of the "last corners of paradise." Surrounded by pine-clad mountains, cotton fields and bulrushes, this is a national conservation area with unspoilt natural beauty. 

Dalyan sits on the river channel between the vast Koycegiz Lake and the Mediterranean Sea. Access to the beach is by "water boat" and is an idyllic 30 min. journey past the spectacular 4th century Rock Tombs, or by a 20 min. bus ride to the other end of the beach.

The designation Specially Protected Area means planning controls are enforced, and the town is zoned into areas with higher or lower density building to keep Dalyan green. No building over 2 storeys is permitted, and many areas declared off limits for construction. A special town plan was drawn up, envisaging a small town of up to 15,000 inhabitants by 2015.