Kaş

Kaş, a captivating town on Turkey's Turquoise Coast, gracefully merges ancient history with a calm, free-spirited atmosphere. Once a quiet fishing village, it has grown into a sought-after destination, yet it maintains a distinct local character. The town is defined by its walkable, stone-paved streets, bright bougainvillea, and traditional white and blue-fronted houses, evoking the aesthetics of Greek islands.

At the foot of a mountain range, Kaş presents dramatic scenery where lowlands burst with colorful flowers, and hillsides yield honey and almonds. Its clear waters and varied activities, from exploring ancient ruins to exceptional diving, create a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure. Unlike larger, more developed resorts, Kaş preserves an authentic allure, making it an ideal place for travelers seeking genuine experiences.

## From Lycian Port to Ottoman Outpost Kaş's origins trace back to the Lycian period, when it was known as Habesos or Habesa. Its importance as a member of the Lycian League is evident from the extensive Lycian necropolis found in the area. During the Hellenistic and Roman periods, the city was known as Antiphellos, serving as the port for the inland city of Phellos. It gained prominence as Phellos declined, eventually minting its own coins and becoming a center for exporting sponges and timber.

After 395 AD, Antiphellos became part of the Byzantine Empire and served as a bishop's see during the early Middle Ages. The town faced constant threats from Arab raids before coming under the control of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum, who renamed it Andifli. Following the Seljuks, the Ottomans took control. A significant shift occurred in 1923, after the Greco-Turkish War, when the majority of the Greek-origin population left Kaş as part of a population exchange between Greece and Turkey. Remnants of this Hellenic past can still be seen in the abandoned Greek houses and architectural styles.

In the early 1990s, Kaş experienced a surge in tourism, drawing visitors primarily from the UK and Germany. Despite this growth, the town has largely managed to preserve its character, offering a blend of ancient history and modern appeal.

Begin your exploration in the delightful Old Town, a labyrinth of pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and outdoor dining. A prominent landmark here is the King's Tomb, a 4th-century BC Lycian sarcophagus adorned with lion heads, standing directly on Uzun Çarşı Caddesi. Just a short walk from the town center, the Hellenistic Theatre, dating to the 1st century BCE, offers a singular experience as the only ancient theater in Anatolia facing the sea, providing spectacular sunset views.

For those drawn to the sea, Kaş is a premier scuba diving destination, offering crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 40 meters. Dive sites feature underwater caves, ancient ruins, and intriguing wrecks, including a sunken Douglas DC-3 plane and a replica of the Uluburun shipwreck. Beyond diving, sea kayaking over the submerged city of Kekova offers another perspective on ancient history. Day trips to the nearby Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis) are also a popular option. For a different kind of adventure, consider paragliding for aerial views of the coastline or hiking sections of the renowned Lycian Way, which passes through Kaş.

The best time to visit Kaş is during the shoulder seasons: May to June and September to October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 22-30°C (72-86°F), the sea is warm for swimming, skies are clear, and crowds are manageable. July and August are the peak season, with hot temperatures (35-40°C / 95-104°F) and higher prices and crowds. While still beautiful, hiking can be uncomfortable in the summer heat. November through March is the low season, with cooler temperatures and many businesses closed.

Kaş is approximately 149 km from Dalaman Airport (about a 2-hour, 15-minute drive) and 203 km from Antalya Airport (roughly a 3.5-hour drive). Renting a car is often suggested for exploring the wider region. Within Kaş itself, the town is small enough to navigate on foot. Taxis are also readily available, particularly if staying on the peninsula. For a taste of local life and fresh produce, visit the Kaş Pazar Market (Friday Market), about a 10-minute walk north of the town center. The Uzun Çarşı Caddesi, or Long Bazaar, is another key shopping area for crafts, jewelry, and textiles. While some restaurants and accommodations can be pricey, budget-friendly options like Turkish pensions and local eateries (Lokantas) are available.