Çeşme: A Place That Recharges You
Çeşme is located in the westernmost part of Turkey, near the city of Izmir. This resort, surrounded by fig groves, anise, sesame, and artichoke fields, stretches along the coast of the Aegean Sea, across from the Greek island of Chios. The name Çeşme, which translates from Turkish as «spring» or «fountain,» was given to the peninsula due to the numerous springs discovered in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Tourists can enjoy comfortable hotels, restaurants, game and sports lounges. The region has a rich history, which can be explored by joining one of the many fascinating excursions organized for travelers.
Treatment in Çeşme
The Çeşme Peninsula and lots of its magnificent beaches are well-known among beach lovers. However, the experience here is not only enjoyable but also beneficial. The peninsula is home to numerous mineral springs that can restore vitality to bodies weakened by urban stress and a hectic lifestyle. Doctors unanimously agree that even a short stay on the Çeşme Peninsula can bring noticeable health improvements to its visitors.
Historical Landmarks
Genoese Fortress
This defensive structure from the 14th century was restored in the 16th century. The fortress towers over the port city of Çeşme, which has become a popular modern resort featuring numerous restaurants.
Caravanserai
The caravanserai, built by Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century, is located next to the fortress. Today, it serves as a hotel.
Aghios (Ayios) Charalambos
It’s a local 19th-century church, which has been converted into the Emir Çaka Art Gallery.
Resort Areas of Çeşme
Ilıca
The well-known resort center of Ilıca is famous for its magnificent sandy beach and the international-class tourist complex, Altın Yunus Hotel & Spa, located right on the waterfront.
The bay is a perfect spot for water sports, and each year, international yacht races are held here. Ilıca also offers great spots for auto tourism enthusiasts. The thermal baths are especially popular, with the best ones located near the Şifne Bay.
Ildırı
It’s a quiet seaside village located 20 kilometers northeast of Çeşme. In the evening, visitors can climb up to the acropolis, where they will enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the bay and islands bathed in the golden rays of the setting sun.
Gerence
To the northeast of the Çeşme peninsula stretches the serene Gerence Bay. It can be reached both by sea and by land. The area is known for its peaceful tranquility, and the bay itself is a perfect spot for water sports.
Çiftlik
Çiftlik is another popular resort area that attracts vacationers with its numerous comfortable hotels and beautiful beaches. The longest sandy beach in the area is Pırlanta Beach, known for its beauty and tranquility.
Altınkum
To the east of Çeşme stretches Altınkum, one of the best beaches in the country and a favorite vacation spot for tourists from around the world.
Alaçatı
A few windmills, converted into restaurants, stand on a hill overlooking Alaçatı. This beautiful seaside town is also famous for windsurfing. The calm water, shallow depths, and steady winds make it an attractive spot for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Urla Iskelesi
In the area of Urla Iskelesi, numerous hotels and guesthouses have been built. Dining here at one of the charming restaurants located on the Guvendik Hill, you can enjoy not only the taste of the food but also the breathtaking view of the bay and islands.
Karaburun
While traveling along the coastal road of the Karaburun Peninsula, travelers pass by picturesque bays and fishing villages such as Balıklıova, Mordoğan, and Karaburun. From Mount Manastır, there is an indescribably beautiful view of the Karaburun coastline, the shores of Foça, and the entrance to Izmir Bay.
Sığacık Bay
On the southern side of the Çeşme Peninsula, near the town of Seferihisar, there’s a well-known yachting center and one of the most beautiful bays in the area, Sığacık. It features fortifications from the Genoese period along the coastline. From this spot, you can take a trip to the ancient city of Teos, visit the Temple of Dionysus, or relax at the beautiful Akkum Beach.
To the southwest of Sığacık is a tourist village called New Neptune, where visitors can take courses in windsurfing and scuba diving.
Gümüldür
Gümüldür is a resort town known for its comfortable tourist complexes, clean beaches, restaurants, and hotels. Located about 50 kilometers from Izmir, it is a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy swimming, diving, and surfing.
Ahmetbeyli
In the town of Ahmetbeyli, located to the east of Gümüldür, you can find the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and its enormous statue. Local restaurants offer delicious fish dishes, and after dining, visitors can relax on the beach. The coastal road from Ahmetbeyli leads south to Pamucak Beach.
