Kemer

Gazing up at the Taurus Mountains, have you ever wondered how a simple wall could give a town its name? Here in Kemer, the very walls meant to protect it from the relentless mountain streams also bestowed its identity. Kemer, meaning “belt” in Turkish, perfectly captures the essence of those 23-kilometer-long stone walls built in 1916-1917. Before the walls, this area was known as Eski Köy, or “Old Village”. Kemer was plagued by flooding from the mountain waters. The construction of this “belt” transformed Kemer, not only protecting it but also shaping its destiny. Kemer’s transformation from a quiet rural district to a bustling tourist hub is truly remarkable. Before the 1960s, Kemer was accessible only by boat, isolated from the world by the lack of road connections. Then, a road opened Kemer to the outside world. With the advent of the “South Antalya Tourism Project” in the 1980s, Kemer experienced an explosion of growth, fueled by significant infrastructure investment. This project, supported by the World Bank, aimed to develop a thriving tourism industry. This investment paid off. Kemer is now a popular destination for travelers, particularly from Germany, the Netherlands, and Russia, many seeking the allure of all-inclusive packages. While tourism dominates the local economy, Kemer also retains some of its historical charm. This area boasts the ancient Greek city of Idyros, once a proud member of the Lycian League. Today, remnants of Idyros, a Byzantine church, and a Seljuk Turkish hunting lodge stand as testaments to Kemer’s layered past. Kemer is more than just sun and sea. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur meets human ingenuity. Kemer’s diverse landscapes are a sight to behold, from the stunning beaches to the imposing mountains and verdant pine forests. The coastline, stretching from Beldibi to Tekirova, is a sequence of beaches nestled in bays of all sizes. Many beaches are covered with smooth pebbles rather than sand. Beyond the beaches, you can find historical and natural wonders such as Phaselis, Olympos, Göynük Canyon, and the Chimaera, the eternally burning rock of Greek mythology. Kemer is also a hub for outdoor activities. The Lycian Way offers breathtaking treks for hikers, while mountain biking trails weave through the rugged terrain. As you leave Kemer, remember its journey. Recall the protective walls that gave it its name, the influx of tourism that propelled its growth, and the echoes of ancient civilizations that whisper through its streets.