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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 09 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Jeremy Seal

At 300m deep, Turkey’s most dramatic gorge makes for a wonderful walk and wade along some 4kms of its full 18km extent.

At the sheer-sided entrance, where the Dargaz River runs strong, raised walkways lead to the trail where the water in places rises to the chest, with some moderate clambering.

After returning along the canyon, retire to one of the charmingly rickety waterside eateries clustered beyond the entrance, where the stream runs wide and shallow.

Or hire a tube to float and bounce downstream for a few kilometres in the company of experienced guides, expecting the odd bump and bruise if the water is low.

Price from: £4
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 6+
When: All year around
Duration: 2 hours

Getting there & doing it

Drive yourself (50kms from Fethiye, 20kms from Kalkan; plenty of easy parking) or join a tour setting out from Fethiye or Kalkan. Wear good water shoes and swimming gear, and bring a change of clothes and a towel. There is a minimal entrance fee.

There are lots of places to eat; the ones nearest the entrance are the busiest and least appealing.

When to do it

The gorge is open from April to October; but closed if there’s the least prospect of rain and life-threatening flash floods. In high summer a visit offers a welcome opportunity to cool off as the water is very cold.

Avoid the (mainly Russian) tour groups by visiting first thing or in the early evening.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Hotel Villa Mahal

Kalkan, Mediterranean Region, Turkey

Hugely romantic small hotel combining simplicity of style and wonderful food with a stunning beach location. Children over 12 only.

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Turan Hill Lounge

Mugla, Aegean Region, Turkey

Idyllic back-to-nature forest camp with wonderful home-grown food, great woodland walks and a glorious beach just a few minutes’ walk away.

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Mandarin & Mango Boutique Hotel

Kabak, Aegean Region, Turkey

A romantic and traditionally styled bolt hole, in idyllic grounds with views over the sea. For those who want the stunning Turkish scenery without the crowds.

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Beyaz Yunus Hotel

Oludeniz, Mediterranean Region, Turkey

Delightful retreat on a private bluff overlooking the sea, with seven bright and beautiful rooms and brilliantly attentive staff – just a ten-minute walk from Oludeniz Beach. Only children only 10+ years old permitted.

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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