Kas, which is the intersection point of Caria and Lycia cities, has one of the most beautiful locations in the Mediterranean. Fascinating with its unparalleled natural beauties, the city is enchanting especially for the colour of its sea. It’s almost impossible to see such a beautiful shade of turquoise anywhere else. Here are the most beautiful routes in and around Kas with its nature, history and warm atmosphere…
Long Bazaar
Located in the centre of Kas, Long Bazaar passes through the middle of the city. It’s 150 meters west of Kas Square, a 2-minute walk away. Long Bazaar is a historical street featuring mansions with bay windows. This is one of the most touristic spots in the city, with its shabby places, shops on the lower floor of the mansions and beautiful Kas hotels. It’s full of handmade products, jewellery, boutiques, souvenir shops and cute cafeterias. Long Bazaar has a different atmosphere than the general bazaars seen in touristic destinations. While visiting the shops here, you’ll likely lose the track of time. You can sit in a cafe to relax and have a cold drink. There are also nice restaurants around for dinner. No matter how you want to spend your time, Long Bazaar is a place where you can collect nice memories and blow off some stream.
King’s Tomb
It’s very nice to reach the King’s Tomb after shopping on Long Bazaar street, which is adorned with ivy and bougainvillea. It’s located just at the end of the bazaar, under the shade of a plane tree. The building, which is one of the landmarks of Kas, is also known as the Lion Sarcophagus. The mausoleum, consisting of a single block with a Lycian inscription, belongs to the 4th century BC. There is an 8-line epigraph on it and depictions of lion on both sides of the upper part with its mouth open. There are male and female figures facing each other on the right and left sides. When you pass the King’s Tomb and turn right, you will come across the streets with decent restaurants in the region.
The Sleeping Giant
The Sleeping Giant is located 2 km to the centre of Kas. It’s a great option for those seeking a pleasant walking and climbing route in the centre of Kas. If you’re coming from the harbour side, it’s necessary to follow the road connecting the Lycian Way to Eski (Old) Cukurbag. It’s a climbing route that requires effort but is worth the view when you reach. While you are walking in a green route that passes through the forest, you get your fill of the air. It can make you sweat when you go out in hot weather, but you may want to take something thick with you for the way back. And, of course walking shoes. It has a panoramic view of Kas from a height of 480 meters. It offers an unmatched visual feast from Limanagzi to Bucak Sea. The Sleeping Giant is a must-see place for hiking and stunning views during your Kas holiday.
Ancient City of Xanthos
Located in Kinik town of Kas, the Ancient City of Xanthos is 45 kilometres away from the city centre. It takes at most 1 hour when you follow the road that continues through Antalya-Fethiye. The city, which was the capital of Lycia in ancient times, is a very valuable asset that has been included in the World Cultural Heritage list by UNESCO. It’s situated on two hills overlooking the lowland. The first is the Lycian Acropolis by the Esen Creek; the second is the Roman Acropolis, which is at a slightly higher position. The first foundations of the city were laid in 1200 BC. It’s written in historical sources that it was destroyed, burned, but rebuilt many times. From this aspect, it has a sad story. Among the ruins that can be seen in the ancient city are freestanding monumental tombs, theatre, church, rock and sarcophagus tombs.
Asmaalti Beach
Asmaaltı, one of the most beautiful spots to swim in the centre, is located right next to the Kas Municipality Marina. Famous for its scenery, it’s a great place to come and swim in the evening and watch the sunset accompanied by a beautiful music. The water of the beach, where you can enter the sea from the jetty, is a bit deep. This is a popular spot with many visitors also during the winter season. It’s turned into a pleasant restaurant with tables set up on wooden platforms. Asmaalti, which is located at a point that can be reached by walking in the centre of Kas, is one of the places you should definitely pop into.
Kalekoy
Kalekoy is a peaceful peninsula accessible from the sea, 35 km from Kas. Transportation by sea is common as the land connection is provided via the pathway and it is a bit difficult. The settlement is situated on the remains of Byzantium and Lycia. The people of the region live together with the ancient ruins. It’s a cute and peaceful place with its pristine nature. The hill where the castle that has given its name to the village, has a wonderful view. After watching the sunset, you can go down to the beach and end the day with the region’s famous homemade ice cream.
