My visit to Simena was brief but one that left me with regret. We had arrived into the harbor, having just explored the sunken, underwater ruins of Kekova.
The first stop was a crowded restaurant for cold refreshments and homemade ice cream, and then we were swiftly on our way returning to Ucagiz.
Also known as, Kaleköy, Simena is a small traditional village and a favorite destination on the yachting scene of Turkey. Daily boat trips from the resorts of Kas and Kalkan, bring in hordes of holiday makers and gullet boats sailing the Turkish Riviera, often choose it as a mooring spot.
Some say, the sea is the only way to reach this rustic destination while others say you can go via land, but the roads and path are too demanding when compared with an easy cruise sail around the coastline.
Simena is its ancient Lycian name, a big difference from the present day name of Kalekoy. Even if you have not heard of it, if you have read in depth about Turkish travel, you will probably have seen photos of the Lycian tombs, protruding out of the water surrounding the coastline.
So why do I feel regret about my visit?
I have an overwhelming feeling that I did not truly get to the heart of Simena.
There is more to Simena, aka Kaleköy
Further research on the internet reveals more paths to explore then I originally thought. I have no plans to walk to the castle standing proudly at the top of the hill; however, I want to stay in one of the four tradition pansions.
I want to strike up conversation with the locals. I want to see the old stone houses, which exist only because of traditional Turkish culture. I want to sit on the harbor front and enjoy a fresh fish dinner, while looking out to sea.
It is rather strange that I have this urge to return, as Simena is nothing spectacular. It does not have grand palaces or luxurious facilities. It is a simple place and what you see is what you get but I know on this occasion I traveled too fast.
Simena was part of my south west coast tour. This whole coastline is a magnificent place that deserves to be admired by all. If you want me to write the truth, I find it more pretty and pleasing to the eye, then the Aegean coast.
It has more hidden surprises and historical attractions. It is easier to get about and there are still more places for me to explore. Even though I spent a month on this coastline, I have to return until I get the feeling that I have seen and done all there is. My first stop when I do return will be Simena.
For further information on this coastline and other regions in Turkey, see Directline Holidays’ Turkey page
Readers Question : Do you like visiting small and rustic places like this?
My oldest daughter and I spent a week near Antalya about 10 years ago and we hardly had any time at the beach as there was so much to see and explore. Fascinating, this part of Turkey.
Sophie recently wrote about..The stairs of Girona
I agree Sophie, no need to stick around the beach. Get out and about when you are in that area.
Natalie recently wrote about..A Honeymoon in Turkey – Ali and Andrew Tell Their Story
J and I spend a few days to a week based at Üça?iz most years – always in the winter when we have the place pretty much to ourselves. It is a wonderful spot that improves no end once the visitors have gone. Try it out of season, you’ll love it even more.
I will do that Alan – I have to return as traveled so fast through that area and never really got chance to fully appreciate it
Natalie recently wrote about..Getting to Know the Cuisine of Turkey
It looks like a really pretty place. I hate leaving a place and feeling like I missed out on something or didn’t “do it right.” There are a couple places I’d like to return to simply because I feel like I should’ve explored more the first time around.
Ali recently wrote about..How to Travel Carry-On Only
I still have that feeling Ali that I should go back now. Thinking of a gullet boat holiday so might be the perfect opportunity. I am sure you feel the same, we feel more content when we get the feeling that there is no need to return
Natalie recently wrote about..Göksu Waterfall : A Rush of Adrenaline and Euphoria
such an awesome post about Turkey. I wished I can get my feet on your lovely country and such was my guiding inspiration, including this one.
I wonder why has there been tombs protruding in the coastline in Simena? Is it part of the culture or some natural phenomenon because we have an island in the Philippines that has sunken cemetery as a result of soil erosion and earthquake.
Wends of Journeys and Travels recently wrote about..Hong Kong’s Clock Tower sentry of the past in the present
HI WJT, the Lycian tombs are from an old city that eventually fell because of earthquakes and changing of the tide lines. Over the years, the city became engulfed by water when once it stood proudly in full view.
Natalie recently wrote about..Göcek –Sophistication that is Not Part of My World
This looks just fantastic. I want to go right now!
It is fantastic Kristen. One of the better places of Turkey
Natalie recently wrote about..A Panoramic View of Rize from Çaykur Tea Garden
looks like a place we would love to visit the Lycian tombs are on our todo list so we may call here aswell after reading your blogg we will book B+B and stay a few days
You two would have a field day exploring the surrounding areas. Will update you as might make it back this summer
Natalie recently wrote about..Göksu Waterfall : A Rush of Adrenaline and Euphoria
I can understand your regret. I love visiting small and rustic places like the one in your post and I’d want to be able to give it at least a few days. Looks like it would be relaxing there.
Lisa @chickybus recently wrote about..*New* Trippy #Travel #Photo Game #20: Guess What, Guess Where! Win link/mention #seo
Very relaxing Lisa – nothing fast paced about here
Natalie recently wrote about..Göcek –Sophistication that is Not Part of My World
Your photos are wonderful! I can see why you’d want to spend more time here.
Stephanie – The Travel Chica recently wrote about..6 Tips for Surviving the Four Day Tour to the Salar de Uyuni
Thanks Stephanie – great photos to look back on but next time, plan to get a lot more away from the sea side
Natalie recently wrote about..The Treacherous Drive to Karagöl : The Black Lake of Borçka
I also think that small places and rustic villages are worth a lot more than all the crowded touristic attractions. One can learn a lot from them. Feeling that I missed out on some important things happens to me, too. I don’t know why, but I always want to see everything there is. That’s not always possile and when I find out what I missed, I feel regret and wish to return some day. For example, I spent three months in Antalya this spring and just didn’t get the chance to visit Simena.
Hi Octavia, I am trying to log onto your site to read your articles about Antalya but it is just saying that it is the wrong server address. Let me know as I would love to read your stories.
Natalie recently wrote about..The Striking Beauty of Efeler Valley
Beautiful place, I bet you wish to return, I wouldn’t mind living there at all
Angela recently wrote about..A trip, a photo – Beach of Canoa Quebrada, Ceará, Brazil
I would like to live there if I was planning to write a book Angela. It would be the perfect place for inspiration.
Natalie recently wrote about..Kümbet Mosque, aka The Church of 12 Apostles
Having just got back from Üça?iz, yes, visiting quiet places is a great way to experience Turkey. We stayed in Üça?iz rather than Kalekoy due to road access and the pensions cost a lot less, but the experience and location are largely similar.
Hi Ashley, I tried to leave a comment on your blog, after I read your own post about it. Problem is that it takes me through to the wordpress site, to log in and I can not. Thanks for highlighting your post. When I return, I might just stay in Ucagiz now that you mention accommodation is a lot cheaper.
Natalie recently wrote about..The Treacherous Drive to Karagöl : The Black Lake of Borçka
Wow this place is beautiful! Great photos Natalie.
Dean recently wrote about..34 Photos That Will Make You Want To Travel To Italy
Thank Dean – I saw your photos of Italy and they are good as well.
Natalie recently wrote about..This Man Will Walk 1305 Miles Across Turkey
Don’t be too hard on yourself – I think it’s always nice to have a reason to go back somewhere that you really enjoyed!
Turtle recently wrote about..Acropolis wow!
That is true Turtle – Looking forward to getting back but don’t think I will make it for this year.
Natalie recently wrote about..Sumela Monastery and the Black Madonna