After Dark in Kalkan, Turkey

One of the most beautiful towns on the Lycian Coast, Kalkan Turkey takes on an entirely different guise after dark. During the day, the town has a charming laid back feel and it is the beaches which are bustling. However, as twilight falls, Kalkan really begins to liven up. As the lights of the harbor emerge and dusk cloaks the tiny seaside town, the streets begin to come alive with locals and visitors coming out to sample the delights of an evening in this enchanting Turkish jewel…

Shopping

In Kalkan, shopping is as it should be; relaxing and hassle free. Most of the shops open early and stay open until midnight which means there is no pressure to discover the bargain of the century before dinner. Even if you’re not in the market for any of the colourful clothing, rugs, or arts and crafts, (but who could resist) window shopping can be just as much fun in Kalkan. Turkey is famous for its traditional ‘kilims’ – traditional hand woven rugs – and it is a joy to browse the huge variety on show. Every region has its own unique designs and stories attached to these beautiful rugs and, if you have the opportunity, you can pick up a wonderful souvenir of your travels for a bargain price. Like a huge open air Aladdin’s cave, Kalkan is also a fabulous place to buy jewellery as it is sold by weight and can work out much cheaper than home. You could also treat yourself to a made to measure item of clothing from one of the tailors, who will whip you up something from their store of fine quality Turkish cloth.

Time for Dinner and a Drink

Once you’ve had your fill of shopping, it’s time for an evening aperitif and then dinner. Kalkan reportedly has the highest concentration of bars and restaurant on the Turkish coast, so you won’t find it hard to get a drink! There are countless numbers of rooftop establishments where you can enjoy uninterrupted sunset views over the Mediterranean as you sip a cocktail. Restaurants in the town will offer you everything from traditional Turkish fare to modern fusion cuisine. But when in Kalkan, Turkey’s traditional ‘mese’ plates are hard to resist. These huge platters of dips, breads, olives, vegetables and cold meats will whet your appetite for the main course of delicious hot seafood or meat dishes. If you feel like working off some your dinner, you can head to one of many bars in the town, which will keep you moving with live music and belly dancers until the early hours.

A Peaceful Walk

If you aren’t really a night owl, and are more likely to hit your pillow than the dance floor, you can end your evening with a peaceful stroll through the quaint winding streets of the town, and down to the picturesque harbour of Kalkan. Turkey’s coast is studded with fishing villages and traditional towns, but standing on the seashore with the stars twinkling above, and the fairy lights of the town behind you, you may be convinced that Kalkan has a certain something that makes it truly magical.