Belek is a lovely town in Antalya, Turkey, famous for its fancy resorts, beautiful beaches, and historic sites. It's a great place for all kinds of travelers. Belek has a stunning coastline along the Mediterranean Sea, with some of the most peaceful beaches perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports. The town is also great for luxury lovers, with top-notch resorts offering excellent hospitality and facilities. Besides its natural beauty, Belek is rich in history, with ancient ruins and archaeological sites nearby. Here are 10 things Belek is known for that make it a top tourist spot.
1. Golf Courses
Belek is known as Turkey's golf capital. It has over a dozen excellent golf courses designed by famous golfers and architects like Colin Montgomerie and Nick Faldo. These courses offer different challenges, with beautiful views of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. Famous courses like the Montgomerie Maxx Royal and Carya Golf Club host important tournaments, attracting golf fans worldwide. The facilities also include modern clubhouses, expert coaching, and practice areas.
2. Luxury Resorts
Belek is known for luxury, with some of Turkey's most luxurious all-inclusive resorts. These resorts combine modern comfort with traditional Turkish style. They offer many amenities like private beaches, spa and wellness centers, and fine dining with international cuisines. Guests can enjoy live shows, cultural performances, clubs, and themed parties. Many resorts are family-friendly, with activities for children like kids' clubs, water parks, and entertainment programs.
3. Beaches
Belek's beaches, like Kadriye Beach and Belek Public Beach, have white sand and clear water, perfect for sun and sea lovers. The long coastline is great for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and windsurfing. These beaches are well-maintained, and many resorts have private sections for guests. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families with children, making it a safe and enjoyable place to enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Amenities often include beach services, equipment rentals, and beachfront dining.
4. Ancient Ruins
Belek is near some important historical sites, with Aspendos being one of the most famous. Aspendos is known for its amazing Roman theater, which is one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. This impressive theater still hosts shows because of its great acoustics. Nearby, the ancient city of Perge offers a look into the area's rich history, with big ruins like a huge stadium, a large theater, and a marketplace. These sites take you back in time, showing the clever building and rich culture of the ancient people who lived there.
5. Nature Parks
Koprulu Canyon National Park is just a short drive from Belek and is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is known for its beautiful scenery, with the fast-flowing Koprucay River, deep gorges, and green forests full of wildlife. It's a great place for outdoor activities, with hiking trails, exciting white-water rafting in Koprulu Canyon, and camping under the stars. Visitors can also enjoy picnics by the river, watching birds, and exploring the plants and animals. Koprulu Canyon National Park is a perfect getaway for those who want to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor fun.
6. The Land of Legends Theme Park
The Land of Legends Theme Park is a big entertainment spot and a top attraction in Belek, especially for families looking for fun. The park has a theme park, a water park, and a shopping street. The theme park has lots of exciting rides, including roller coasters for thrill-seekers. The water park has many slides, from fast drops to gentle rides for all ages. Visitors can see live shows, like dolphin and sea lion performances that amaze with their cleverness. The park's fairy tale-inspired design adds to its magical feel, taking guests into a world of imagination and joy.
7. Turkish Baths (Hammams)
Belek is famous for its luxurious Turkish baths, known as hammams. These baths offer a glimpse into a rich cultural tradition with historical cleansing rituals. Visitors enjoy a peaceful environment and can try various treatments. The experience starts with a steam bath that opens pores and relaxes muscles. Next, a traditional scrub with a kese mitt exfoliates and refreshes the skin. Finally, a massage with aromatic oils soothes the body and mind. Belek's hammams mix modern spa treatments with old practices, giving a refreshing break from daily life.
8. Cuisine
Belek is known for its diverse culinary scene that combines Turkish flavors with international influences. The town offers many dining options, from local eateries to upscale restaurants. Diners can enjoy fresh seafood, seasoned with spices and herbs. Tasty mezze appetizers are great for sharing different flavors. Authentic kebabs are a hearty and satisfying meal. Many places offer fine dining with menus by famous chefs, ensuring each meal is a memorable experience for everyone.
9. Troy Aqua & Dolphinarium
Inspired by the city of Troy, the Troy Aqua & Dolphinarium is a popular water park and marine show venue in Belek. The park features exciting water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river for relaxation. The dolphinarium is a highlight, with shows featuring dolphins and sea lions doing tricks. Visitors can also swim with dolphins for a unique experience. The mix of fun water activities and marine shows makes this a favorite spot for families and ocean lovers.
10. Kadriye Beach Park
Kadriye Beach Park is a charming public beach in Belek, offering a relaxed and local atmosphere. It's an ideal place to enjoy the sun and sandy shores without needing to stay at a resort. The park has picnic areas, making it perfect for family outings. Children can play in playgrounds, while adults relax in cafes or bars. For those seeking adventure, the park offers water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing. The beach is famous for its beautiful sunset views, making it a great place for evening walks and relaxation.
Belek has something for everyone, offering relaxation, culture, history, and adventure. It's on the Turkish Riviera and is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. For those who enjoy luxury, there are fancy resorts and great restaurants. Adventure lovers can try golf, hiking, and rafting in the nearby Taurus Mountains. History fans can visit ancient sites like Perge and Aspendos. Whether you like luxury, adventure, or history, Belek is a great place to visit.