Kemer is a unique resort on the Antalya coast: a true oasis surrounded by mountains covered with centuries-old pine trees. Here you’ll find sandy and pebble beaches, pristine air filled with the scent of pine and orange blossoms, and a crystal-clear sea. The resort offers a wide range of hotels, from modest three-star hotels to luxurious five-star hotels. But what else don’t you know about Kemer?

1. The name translates from Turkish as “belt.”
This place was previously called Eskikoy, which translates as “old village.” Frequent mudflows descending from the mountains destroyed and washed away the village’s houses. In the early 20th century, the Turks built a stone wall around the mountain to protect the village from mudflows. It was then that the settlement received its current name—Kemer.

2. By sea only
Now, the journey from Antalya Airport to any village in the Kemer resort area takes no more than an hour along a picturesque highway with views of the mountains and sea. However, just 50 years ago, this road didn’t exist: the only way from Antalya to Kemer was by sea.

3. Ancient ruins
Wherever there are cliffs, mountains, and centuries-old trees, there are always ancient ruins and traces of the past. Historians claim that Alexander the Great crossed here across the ancient Kesme Bridge, as did Mark Antony during his conquests. Present-day Kemer was once the Lycian city of Idrios. The world’s longest hiking trail also passes through this area, retracing the ancient Lycian trade route.

4. A pirate cave awaits adventurers
In Kemer, there is a real pirate cave, where sea robbers hid their ships to remain undetected by passing vessels. This grotto is one of the most picturesque spots on the coast and can be seen during a boat cruise. Incidentally, the pirate cave is still large enough to accommodate a small boat.

5. Plenty of modern entertainment
Kemer offers not only walks through the ruins of ancient cities and exploration of ancient caves, but also modern entertainment. Did you know that just a 20-minute drive from the city is a dolphinarium? It’s located in the famous Moonlight Park near Kemer. This park boasts manicured greenery, beautiful coastal and beach recreation areas, cafes, gazebos, and a host of other activities.