HIDDEN treasures

They’re easy to find in Turkey if you know where to look...

THEY are the secret treasures of Turkey – ancient spots and unexpected natural wonders to visit on day trips from the country’s main, sea-side resorts. There’s even a mysterious underground cavern that’s a must-see sight for every mini-break to Istanbul.

Holidaymakers on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast – the sunny Turkish Riviera – can book guided tours or private visits to wonders of the world including the ice-white lunar landscape of Pamukkale. Hot springs have bubbled there for thousands of years, covering an entire hillside in bright white calcium deposits. Today, warm water flows down a natural staircase of perfectly shaped, shallow pools. Step into the hot springs or walk across the moon-like mountain for the ultimate ‘out of this world’ photograph.

IMAGINATION

A sunken city fires up the imagination in the south with boat trips to Kekova island revealing a once-booming city that’s now almost entirely under water. Ancient streets and houses fell below the waves after an earthquake 2,000 years ago. Crystal clear waters give you ultra-sharp views of what lies beneath your boat – and while you can’t dive to the oldest areas you can swim (and have lunch) when boats anchor up nearby.

Away from the coast, waterfalls and canyons for white-water rafting make Turkish holidays even more unique. A rainforest experience awaits at the upper part of the Duden Waterfalls near Antalya. The 20m-wide cascade ends in a pool surrounded by tropical greenery complete with colourful parrots. Wear sturdy shoes for the path and cave behind the falls.

Koprulu Canyon is the place for an adrenaline-boosting day on Turkey’s best white-water rapids. Life-vests, helmets and safety training are provided and there are family-friendly trips for firsttimers and adventurous routes for experienced rafters. Zip-wire rides and jeep safaris are also on offer. Some day-trips from big resorts let you try all three in a single, action-packed day.

History comes alive at ancient sites across Turkey. Ephesus is the best known. The façade of its iconic library stands two storeys tall; intricately carved statues stand in the museum while temples and theatres dot the vast, open air site. Less visited sites for day trips include Perge, with hot baths, a necropolis and long lines of stone columns.

Or enter the world of a Dan Brown thriller in Istanbul with a visit to the subterranean Basilica Cistern. Far below the city streets is a shadowy water world, where hundreds of marble columns support the vaulted ceiling of an almost forgotten reservoir. Don’t miss the carved Medusa heads on two of the columns (one is on its side, the other upside down) and keep an eye out for special events. Light and sound shows are rare, but win rave reviews.