What a wonderful route to explore! Turunç's legendary beauty is usually associated with the magnificent bay that bears its name. Yet the generous nature of the Aegean has bestowed many more hidden treasures on this region. If you venture a little beyond Turunç and follow the coastline with a curious spirit, or head out onto the blue waters by boat, you will come across bays that have remained in the shadow of the popular stops yet are every bit as enchanting – perhaps even more so. Çiftlik Bay and Gebekse Bay (sometimes also called Gerbekse) are two “little-known paradises” near Turunç that fit this description perfectly.
In this post, we'll take you on a journey to these two special bays just south of Turunç. We'll describe in detail what sets them apart, how to get there, the unique experiences they offer and why you should add them to your list. Come, let's step away from the crowds and discover together the hidden beauty of Çiftlik and Gebekse and their tranquillity interwoven with history. This exploration will show you a side of the Aegean you have never seen before and bring a deep sense of well-being (peace and health) to your soul.
Beauty Beyond Turunç: The Irresistible Allure of Exploration
Turunç's central beach and well-known spots like Amos Bay are wonderful, of course. But the real magic of a holiday sometimes lies in stepping off the beaten track and discovering less-visited places. Seeking out the quieter bays nearby not only gives you a chance to escape the crowds, it also offers a more authentic nature experience, more special memories and that sweet thrill of discovery. Çiftlik and Gebekse are tailor-made for anyone on this kind of quest. Although both lie quite close to Turunç, each stands out with its own character and the different experiences it offers.
1. Çiftlik Bay: The Calm and Inviting Embrace of a Wide Beach
As you head south from Turunç, one of the first notable bays you'll come across is Çiftlik. Also home to a small settlement of the same name, this bay differs in several ways from Turunç and the other bays around it.
- Location and Access: Çiftlik Bay is about 10-15 km from Turunç by road. However, the last stretch of the road may be unpaved or rough in places and is not always suitable for ordinary cars; 4x4 vehicles or motorbikes make the journey more comfortably. The most popular and convenient way to get there, though, is on one of the day boat trips departing from Turunç or Marmaris.
- Beach and Sea: One of Çiftlik Bay's most distinctive features is that it has a longer and wider beach than the other bays in the area. The beach is generally a mix of sand and small pebbles. The sea is clean and clear, and very pleasant for swimming.
- Facilities and Atmosphere: Çiftlik Bay is not a completely untouched bay. Along the shore you'll find a few restaurants, cafés and small guesthouse- or hotel-style places to stay. The overall atmosphere is much calmer and more relaxing than in Turunç and especially Marmaris.
Who It's For: Çiftlik Bay is a lovely alternative for those who want to sunbathe on a wider beach, those who like to be close to basic amenities, those who want to stop at a different bay on a boat trip and those willing to take on an adventurous journey by road.
2. Gebekse (Gerbekse) Bay: A Turquoise Oasis in the Embrace of History
A little further on from Çiftlik Bay lies another corner of paradise that feels completely removed from civilisation, a place where time seems to stand still: Gebekse Bay. It enchants visitors not only with its natural beauty but also with its historic character.
- Location and Access: Reaching Gebekse Bay by land is almost impossible. The only way to get to the bay is by sea. The vast majority of day boat trips departing from Turunç and Marmaris make sure to include Gebekse on their route. You can also reach the bay by chartering a private boat or yacht.
- Natural Beauty and Sea: The moment you see Gebekse Bay, you'll understand why it is described as “paradise”. The bay's water is incredibly clear, in shades of turquoise and deep blue. The water is so clean that even from the boat you can clearly make out the sand and rocks on the seabed.
- A Touch of History: Secrets on the Shore: What sets Gebekse apart from other bays most of all are the historic ruins on its shore. Here you can see the stone walls of a church or monastery complex thought to date back to the Byzantine period.
- Atmosphere and Facilities: There are no commercial businesses, facilities or settlements at Gebekse Bay. It is all about nature and history. The atmosphere is incredibly calm and peaceful.
Who It's For: For nature lovers, history enthusiasts, those who want to swim and snorkel in waters of rare beauty and those seeking absolute silence and peace, Gebekse is a must-visit.
Comparing the Two Paradises: Which One Is Right for You?
Although Çiftlik Bay and Gebekse Bay both lie near Turunç, they offer very different experiences:
- If you're looking for a wider beach, basic food and drink options and the alternative of getting there by land (challenging as it may be), Çiftlik Bay may suit you better.
- If your priorities are unspoiled nature, historic ruins, exceptionally clear water, the joy of snorkelling and absolute silence, Gebekse Bay will enchant you.
Ideally, join a boat trip that lets you see both bays. That way you can experience both the comfort of Çiftlik and the mystical, natural atmosphere of Gebekse on the same day.
Nearby Treasures Waiting to Be Discovered
Beyond Turunç's well-known beauty, there are many treasures like Çiftlik Bay and Gebekse Bay waiting to be discovered. These “little-known paradises” show that the Aegean is not just about popular beaches, and that it still offers curious travellers hidden, authentic and enchanting corners. Whether you reach Çiftlik on an adventurous journey by land or swim in the historic waters of Gebekse from a boat, these bays will leave you with memories that go beyond a standard holiday experience – memories intertwined with nature and history that let your soul unwind.
As you discover the unique Turunç experience we've described and the hidden bays around it, wouldn't you like to crown your holiday with comfortable accommodation and first-class service? Located in the heart of Turunç, the Turunç Resort and Turunç Premium hotels promise you an unforgettable holiday. With their stunning views, modern facilities and an approach focused on guest satisfaction, the Aegean holiday of your dreams is just a click away. Book your place now to combine all the beauty of Turunç with an exclusive stay!
