The scenic town of Akbuk sits on a little bay just a twenty minute drive from the well-known tourist resort of Altinkum. The two could not be more different however and Akbuk is a world away from the tourist hustle and bustle.
Akbuk Bay itself sits comfortably nestled in verdant pine forests that are said to be very therapeutic for all manner of ailments and especially for asthma sufferers due to the high level of oxygen created by the lush vegetation. This quaint fishing village has a lot to offer and is well worth the trip. There is a regular dolmus service scheduled from Didim every fifteen minutes, making this little Turkish gem easily accessible.
Dotted along the promenade are many quaint restaurants and bars, serving both local and international cuisine, where you can sit and gaze at the crystal clear sea as it laps the lilac grey mountain ranges. It’s a place where ‘no hassle’ really does mean no hassle.
Along the seafront you will find the best little market around. Open for business during the summer months, these small wooden Bodum style house stalls display some wonderful things and offer the unusual and bespoke goods very different to what you will find in the general markets. Stall holders allow you a hassle free stroll through: Sirinci wine, rustic olive oil, olive oil potions and lotions, handicrafts, original paintings, exquisite handmade jewellery and all manner of appealing and eye catching goods. There is even a costume booth where for just ten lira you are transported back in time to the Ottoman Empire! Dressed in the brightly coloured costumes of that era, strike a pose and strike fear into the hearts of the enemy as they behold a proud and strong Sultan of the Empire as he raises his sword…….. Yes you really can get carried away and all for ten lira, which includes a high gloss photograph taken and printed on the spot. What a wonderful memento.
There really is something for everyone along the seafront; Children are catered for with mini dodgems, trampolines and little electric cars that they can drive themselves up and down the prom. Pretty boats are moored along the bay and many of their hosts will welcome you on board for a drink should you happen to be passing. We even have our very own Greek Church that dates back hundreds of years. This is sometimes used for council business and meetings and currently it houses an art exhibition which is free to wander around. You will find the doors very rarely locked here.
Many coves surround the seashore, and there are a few cafes situated right on the water’s edge where you certainly get that "Shirley valentine" feeling. Head out of town a little and you will find secluded beaches, whitewashed villages where time has stood still, floating fish restaurants and fabulous walks with spectacular scenery that are easily accessible on the mountain paths that wind their way around the bay.
As for entertainment well, there are regular events held on the centre stage that include concerts and live music and if nothing much else is happening then the stage becomes an outdoor cinema where you can sit on a warm summers evening and enjoy the film as you melt into the ambience that is Akbuk Bay; The tinkling of the lantern lit boats as they sway in the night sea, the colourful lights and decorations of the market, the relaxed hum of conversation from foot traffic as tourists wander the prom and a music meld of genres that you catch on the breeze every now and then. It’s a magical setting that sits in a stunning mountain frame that slowly turns to shadow as the sun sets on the horizon in spectacular display of fire.
Think there is nothing in Akbuk? …….Think again and don’t forget your camera!
Our thanks to Donna of Pasa Restaurant for this article and photos.