Dalyan

The area stands out for its distinctive natural landscape, where a lake, channel, delta and beach come together. The name Dalyan comes from the traditional fishing method known as dalyan fishing, which has been practised in the region for centuries.

One of Dalyan’s best-known natural areas, İztuzu Beach, has a sandy beach approximately 5 kilometres long and is an important nesting site for Caretta caretta sea turtles. This unique landscape, where fresh water meets the Mediterranean Sea, forms an important ecosystem with its reed beds, bird species and rich aquatic life. To protect the natural balance of the region, Köyceğiz-Dalyan was declared a Special Environmental Protection Area in 1998.

Alongside its natural beauty, Dalyan is also home to an important historical heritage. Rising on the opposite bank of the channel, the Kaunos kaya mezarları (rock-cut tombs) reflect the monumental tomb architecture of antiquity. Nearby, the ancient city of Kaunos features the remains of a theatre, agora, baths and harbour. With its ancient cities, historic rock-cut tombs and natural habitats worthy of protection, Dalyan brings together the cultural and ecological richness of Anatolia.