The popular resort of Altinkum lies on the Aegean Coast of Turkey and has a transfer time from Bodrum Airport of ninety minutes. It has a wonderful stretch of sandy beach which shelves gently into the crystal clear sea. There is provision for the more energetic holidaymaker to indulge in water sports. A wealth of sightseeing opportunities exist including excursions to the historical town of Ephesus which is nearby.
An Altinkum holiday provides guaranteed summer sun, warm crystal clear water, sporting activities and a range of good hotel accommodation. The name Altinkum, ‘golden sands’ has beautiful beaches offering safe bathing. It is a busy resort with a good range of shops and markets and the many bars and clubs provide a lively nightlife.
Altinkum is popular with most people because of its wide-ranging facilities and attractions. It is particularly popular with families with small children because of its large numbers of safe beaches. Those with a love of water sports will be amazed by the variety of activities that are available ranging from diving and snorkelling, to wind surfing and water skiing. It is also an ideal spot for those interested in ancient times. The vibrant nightlife also attracts young singles.
Altinkum has a long season lasting from early spring until late autumn. The temperature range is from the twenties to the high thirties. Although summer is the most popular time to visit, those wishing to visit the historical sites may prefer the more pleasant temperatures out of high season.
Altinkum, with its golden sands, is popular with a large number of European holidaymakers as well as the Turks themselves. It offers beautiful sandy beaches gently sloping into shallow seas making it very safe for children and weak swimmers. Its two long beaches stretch for one kilometre around the bay and there are other beaches in the vicinity. They have Blue Flag status and are patrolled by lifeguards. There is good provision for water sports including water skiing, sailing and diving, to satisfy the more energetic holidaymaker.
The town itself is full of charm especially on market days when the visitors arrive from other resorts. There are many shops providing a whole range of goods .There is also an out of town centre at Soke where there is a range of unique Turkish shops and where prices are lower.
Those with an interest in history will find a large number of archaeological sites including Ephesus which is second only to Pompeii in its display of Roman life.
The Aqua Fantasy Park is a fun day out for both young and old with its hair raising chutes and flumes.
Nearby Kustur is an ideal place for water sports with its many excellent facilities. It is possible to go out reef diving and snorkelling to experience the wonderful diversity of the marine life. Wind surfing, water skiing and parasailing are just a few of the activities that are available.
Altinkum offers a vast choice or bars and restaurants and caters for all tastes. The main entertainment is centred around the two squares and this becomes a very lively place at the height of the season. If pounding music into the early hours is not to your taste make sure your accommodation is away from the centre.
Altinkum has a good shopping centre with malls, specialist shops and markets where all manner of goods can be purchased. Didyma is the largest mall whose stock is aimed at tourists and includes clothing, cameras, leather goods and jewellery. There are also markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Remember to barter for your goods and you will be better satisfied with your bargains. Some of the best items to buy are leather goods, carpets and silver and gold jewellery.
Altinkum has many restaurants and bars in the streets leading to the beach and along the sea front itself. The restaurants serve a wide variety of menu from fast foods to international cuisine. Turkish food is very tasty and includes stuffed peppers and vine leaves, clay-pot casseroles, kebabs and of course feta cheese, olive and tomato salads. Rice dishes are also popular.
