Property in Turkey | Thermal Springs in Turkey | Spas in Turkey

Dalyan Spas and Thermal Springs in Turkey

Dalyan is thought of as the least serious of Turkey's main thermal tourism centres. The location, situated in the province of Mugla on Turkey's south-west Meditarranean coast, is less of a medical area and more of a place to have fun.

To the south-west of the Koycegiz Lake, which is connected by a channel to the Meditarranean, lie the Sultaniye Thermal Baths. The water, which reaches 40 degrees celsius, is said to have age reducing qualities.

First though, visitors must emmerse themselves in the mud baths, where the 'beauty mud' is known to cleanse and tone the skin. The potent-smelling mud is then removed in the clear, natural water of the sulphur pool. Another condition said to be improved by the water is Rheumatism.

A Mud Beauty Queen is chosen every year during the festivities held at the baths. Ukrainian Olga Avdeeva, a 22-year-old economics student at the University of Moscow, currently holds the title, having been honoured at the Caretta Caretta Festival.

The ancient settlement of Sultaniye dates back to Caunon times, accommodation at the baths was rebuilt in the Byzantine era. Buildings from the period are now submerged deep beneath the lake.

Elderly people are said to regularly make visits to the baths, recognising the water's capabilities in curing neuralgia, rheumatism and skin disorders of the liver, spleen and bowels. The hot thermal springs in Turkey, which contain sodium chloride, hydrogen, sulphur, bromide and fluoride, are also said to combat neurological and physical exhaustion.

Dalyan itself is a small town, whose natural beauty makes up for its lack of amenities. However, there are good quality bars and restaurants and a selection of hotels. Traditional dance nights are put on featuring costumes, folk music and special food. A post office is situated in the town centre and claims to deliver letters to the UK less than five days. This is a stunning place to own property in Turkey.

For those who have fully unwound at the thermal baths and feel the need for something a little more energetic, there are plenty of other activities within an hour's drive of Dalyan. White water rafting, canyoning - a pastime which involves travelling through canyons by a combination of swimming, walking, scrambling or abseiling - and paragliding are all enjoyed by tourists.

Mountain biking, jeep safaris and trekking are other options for a family day out and where the Dalyan River flows into the sea, a beach noted for its population of loggerhead turtles is situated. Although the stretch of coast is closed at night time in order to protect the eggs laid by the female turtles under the cover of darkness, sunbathers are allowed access from 08:00 to 20:00 [local time].

For those with a taste for the rich history evident in so many parts of Turkey, the ancient city of Caunos can be found alongside the river. Still visible are the ruins of by city walls, a theatre, four temples, an agora, baths, palestra, churches and a cistern. Caunos bordered the Kingdom of Lycia and the former kings of the city were buried in rock tombs shaped into temples. Those visiting property in Turkey can enjoy these activities close by.

Dalyan provides for a satisfactory family holiday, offering the beach and baths for Mum, a slice of history for Dad and ample activities for the kids to get involved in.