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?
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Natalie says
atThat is true Turtle – Looking forward to getting back but don’t think I will make it for this year.
Turtle says
atDon’t be too hard on yourself – I think it’s always nice to have a reason to go back somewhere that you really enjoyed! 🙂
Natalie says
atThank Dean – I saw your photos of Italy and they are good as well.
Dean says
atWow this place is beautiful! Great photos Natalie.
Natalie says
atHi 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.
Ashley says
atHaving 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.
Natalie says
atI would like to live there if I was planning to write a book Angela. It would be the perfect place for inspiration.
Natalie says
atHi 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.
Angela says
atBeautiful place, I bet you wish to return, I wouldn’t mind living there at all 😉
Octavia says
atI 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.
Natalie says
atThanks Stephanie – great photos to look back on but next time, plan to get a lot more away from the sea side
Natalie says
atVery relaxing Lisa – nothing fast paced about here
Stephanie - The Travel Chica says
atYour photos are wonderful! I can see why you’d want to spend more time here.
Lisa @chickybus says
atI 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.
Natalie says
atYou two would have a field day exploring the surrounding areas. Will update you as might make it back this summer
Natalie says
atIt is fantastic Kristen. One of the better places of Turkey
phil + Di marina gateway says
atlooks 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
Kristen says
atThis looks just fantastic. I want to go right now!
Natalie says
atHI 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 says
atI 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 says
atI 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 says
atI agree Sophie, no need to stick around the beach. Get out and about when you are in that area.
Wends of Journeys and Travels says
atsuch 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.
Ali says
atIt 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.
Alan says
atJ 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.
Sophie says
atMy 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.