All around Turkey are national parks which are protected green areas and the aim of them is to let wildlife and flora thrive while educating children and adults alike. One of these national parks is called Dilek which is close to the resorts of Kusadasi and Altinkum.
We ended up in Dilek national Park when our plans to visit the camel wrestling got called off due to bad weather. Now, this is where I feel great shame as in the ten years I have lived in this area, I had never even heard of Dilek national park. It is just one hour’s drive from my home town of Altinkum.
Old Doganbey Village
Due to bad weather, we only walked around the small village and visited the museum. The museum contained mainly stuffed birds and animals and I was glad to see a notice declaring that all animals had lived within the park and died naturally or through accidents.
If you visit in summer time, it is possible to walk around the park and come across a vast array of wildlife including wild boars, jackals and owls. Alternatively you can head off to one of the bays or small islands and spot seals and pink flamingos.
A full day could be spent at the old Doganbey and Dilek national park and I will be heading back in summer when the bad weather has subsided. Hopefully then I should have a lot more photos to show you. The area however definitely needs more promotion as I have talked to quite a few people and none of them had ever heard of it.
It would be great as a family day out or for couples who like trekking through the countryside. I have yet to spot any travel agents who are running day time excursions there so you would have to hire a car for the day. I would also advise taking a picnic although I have read elsewhere that there are cafes dotted around the park to stock up on refreshments and have lunch.
If you have already been to that area then feel free to add any hints and tips otherwise be sure to put it on your list of places to see when you are next in Turkey.
Well that would definitely be on our list if we were in that area. We’ve never heard of it either. Looks gorgeous – and we love a good wander around the countryside!
Julia
I made it to Dilek and loved it. It was very hot that day and I did a lot of walking, but I enjoyed a nice dip in the water. It was a pebbly/rocky beach, though, and so, I recommend some sort of water shoes. It’s really gorgeous and worth it, of course. Nothing like seeing the Aegean and pines trees in the same location.
PS: I saw wild boars when I was there…
well we will be going there in May so we will be calling round for directions looks like a great day out
love the black sky and the missing mountain tops im realy missing my 2nd home
@TFLs/ It is amazing what secrets are revealed in Turkey when you think you know an area well.
@Lisa.Glad you loved it. Hopefully when i return in summer, I will see more wildlife as well.
@Phil and Di. I will give your directions over a bottle of Efes!! LOL