If we had to describe Akyaka in one sentence: a perfect place to clear your head. The sea, the river, charming riverside restaurants, a small centre, forest, green and blue all in one place. We have been there both by motorcycle and with a towed caravan, and the result was the same: peace.
Where is Akyaka and what is it known for?
Akyaka is a small seaside town in Muğla’s Ula district, on the Gulf of Gökova. The Azmak River, which carries cold mountain water to the sea, defines the town. Akyaka is also known for its local architecture of wood and stone, for the pine forests around it and for its wind, which attracts kitesurfers.
What do you do in Akyaka?
The first pleasure is that you can walk everywhere: the centre is small, and both the river and the sea are close. We spent time by the Azmak River. The water is so cold that you feel it even while sitting beside it, and even after several visits it never looked inviting enough to enter.
When is the best time to visit?
When you go matters, and even what time of day you do things. We went at the end of the season. The crowds had gone, the beach had gone quiet and there was no parking problem, while the sunset was as beautiful as ever. Going off-season has downsides, but for us the calm was much better.
Going by caravan and by motorcycle
We reached Akyaka with the towed caravan we use for work after a ten-hour journey, and spent a noise-free time without parking trouble. Akyaka was also the end of our motorcycle tour that began in Kemer, Antalya. After long rides, planning calm stops matters for safety too, since tired riders make tired decisions.
From Akyaka we set off for Datça in the rain, with grey clouds outside and Akyaka’s blue still inside us. We also stopped in Göcek, between Kaş and Akyaka, a small and charming centre.
For long walking days, Rider Healthcare makes a modal sock, and Galata Healthcare offers a daily body care cream. Educated Moto Riders organises trips and motorcycle tours for those who like to add towns like this to a route.
Read the full story in Turkish with photos and videos: Akyaka Gezi Rehberi.