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What's it really like? Transfer time: Approx 2 hours Location: A purpose-built beach resort with no pretensions of being anything else, Icmeler is set amidst stunning scenery at the foot of a range of pine-covered mountains which sweep down to form a huge cove. Widely described as 'European' it more closely resembles a typical package-holiday destination; artificial and yet accommodating. It is not a bad place to spend a fortnight due to its close proximity to the hustle and bustle of Marmaris (about an hour's walk along the coast road), and not far away are some of Turkey's famous landmarks. Compared to its nearest neighbour there remains a village-like feel to the place with big town amenities of its own. Being a new-ish destination it has undoubtedly benefited from hindsight and learned from the mistakes of rival resorts. Overall it is clean, spacious and will undoubtedly appeal to families. Beaches: Slate-coloured sand, rather course in texture furnished with parasols and beach-bars. Crowds are swelled by the visitors from the bloated town of Marmaris which suffers from a poor beach of its own. It benefits from a magnificent setting looking out to sea, although purists will sniff at the number of hotels which line the beach. Water sports available and snorkeling is a popular pastime especially around the rockier sections of the coast. Days out: Many tourists are tempted by boat trips to 'Cleopatra's Isle' so-called because, according to legend it became a meeting place for the famous queen and her lover Mark Anthony. Further afield are the 'must-see' waterfalls of Pamukkale which supposedly have therapeutic properties, and the important archaeological site of Ephesus (see Turkey main page). Shopping opportunities are numerous either in Icmeler itself or down the road at Marmaris. Nights out: Bars along the seafront and in the surrounding streets provide 'live' music suplimented by one or two nightclubs, nothing boisterous as most of the revelers head for Bodrum and Gumbet. A fair choice of restaurants in Icmeler, many more in Mamaris ten minutes away by taxi or dolmus. Bucket and Spade Brigade: The beach is the main attraction for children and although the sand is gritty the sea is warm and shallow. Close-by is a water park with suitable attractions for youngsters. |
