Kas

Kas: The Amphitheatre dates from the 1st century BC and offers excellent views

Kas: The Amphitheatre dates from the 1st century BC and offers excellent views

Built on the site of the Lycian town of Antiphellos, the amphitheatre from that time remains well preserved. Kas however has moved on and has become something of an activity centre, with scuba diving, paragliding, sea kayaking, white water rafting, jeep safari’s and mountain biking all on offer.

For the more sedate, the winding cobbled streets and bazaar area are well worth exploring, with plenty of locally crafted souvenirs on offer as well as the more predictable gifts (Turkish Delight anyone)? There is also a produce market on Fridays.

If you fancy a break from sailing, there are boat trips to Kastelorizo and Kekova Roads, or you can visit the national park at Patara. This offers 12km of sandy beaches and dunes as well as Lycian ruins in exchange for a small entrance fee. Patara is the best place to head if you’re after a sandy beach – those near the town are all pebbled.

Kas: The town is set on steep hills. The harbour entrance is just visible

Kas: The town is set on steep hills. The harbour entrance is just visible

You don’t need to go so far for ruins though. In addition to the amphitheatre, there are a number of Lycian tombs scattered around town.

Culture vultures might want to plan their trip to coincide with the annual festival which takes place over three days one weekend in mid to late June each year. This includes national dancing, music and art exhibitions, with some performances taking place in the amphitheatre.

Kas has all the facilities you’d expect of a small town, including several mini markets, bakeries, butchers, chemists, banks with ATM’s and a post office. There are plenty of restaurants to chose from.

Kas’s location well away from any airports has limited its tourist growth which is no bad thing. It is to be hoped the new marina doesn’t change the place.

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