Secret Turkey: Along the Lycian Coast

Gocek Bay is home to several pine forest-covered islands. The delicious Turkish sun makes the crystal clear waters of the secluded coves sparkle. Sailors are familiar with these areas, which are famous for their excellent mooring conditions and stunning landscapes. It has been declared an area of special protection; buildings cannot exceed a specific height, so as not to obstruct the views. Take a taxi boat or fishing boat to the islands and enjoy the beautiful beaches and fragrant dishes. On the mainland, enjoy the same - just minutes from the town. Citrus orchards in the hinterland yield abundant fruit. Paragliding enthusiasts and divers will be able to take full advantage of Oludeniz lagoon and enjoy its clear, turquoise and aquamarine hues. If you're not feeling quite as energetic, this stunning lagoon is still worth exploring because it's one of those wonderful places where the Mediterranean goes Polynesian. The distinctive rock-cut tombs of Fethiye are from the Hellenistic period; the castle was a fortress of the Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem.

Drive to Kalkan, south-west of Antalya. Three-night stay on the hillside, in the heart of a small but dense grove of gorgeous greens and greys. A row of narrow stone platforms sits below the hotel while waves lap at the foot of the property. The hotel features a blend of white and blue, the traditional colour-scheme for such a coastal setting, but the rooms, sometimes in spring green or with a quirky, rustic piece of statement furniture lend an original flavour to the decor. At lunchtime, eat in the shade of the olive trees and soak up the mouthwatering smells of food mixed with the great outdoors and salty sea air. In the evening, the beach club terraces are transformed into an open-air restaurant. They are illuminated by twinkling stars, lanterns, dancing shadows and deliciously cool vibes... During the day, relax and slip into the large infinity swimming pool, take a sea shuttle to visit Kalkan, go for a refreshing dip in the sea and enjoy full-body massages.

Already included in the itinerary - Schooner in Kekova Bay. Head to the idyllic, protected area between Kas and Demre. First, embark on a small hike through the pine forests to the archaeological site of Aperlai, which was the main port of Lycia in the fifth century BC. Marvel at the typical stone sarcophagi. They look like little overturned boats, as if they were washed up onto the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Then, continue to the village of Ucagiz and board a traditional wooden boat. Enjoy an on-board lunch and then sail around the stunning coves and islands. If you're feeling energetic and want to explore this paradise further, jump in and go for a swim. Here, the crystal clear waters are like a fragment of an ancient mosaic; spot loggerhead sea turtles and groupers as you cool off. In the afternoon, visit Kalekoy and the Byzantine castle, built in the Middle Ages to fight off pirates.

With its white houses and shocking pink bougainvillea, the ancient 'Greek' town of Kalkan is full of charm. Four miles to the south-east, the small beach of Kaputas, at the mouth of a narrow gorge, is the epitome of a picturesque Mediterranean paradise. Just over half a mile to the south-west, Patara, with its long, open and flat landscape and never-ending sand dunes, is quite the opposite and another ancient Lycia. A little archaeology is a captivating contrast to dips in these turquoise waters, so visit the site near Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The theatre is still very evocative and numerous graves have been discovered. And, it could inspire you to continue your trip when you return: two of the city's most beautiful remains from its glorious past, Payava Tomb (fourth century BC) and the Nereid Monument (same era) are at the British Museum in London.

Drive to Olympos. Three-night stay in an area with astonishing and delightful greenery, just a stone's throw from the sea. The rooms are cosy, with a boudoir feel, and there's a veranda overlooking the estate, where chickens, peacocks and ducks wander freely. There's no swimming pool, but you won't even notice when you're relaxing under the shady palapas (thatch roofed shelters) on the private, idyllic beach. The hotel also has a sauna, hot tubs and massages available to guests. Breakfast is served beneath the trees and is a great sign of the rest of the day's meals to come (traditional Turkish dishes, pasta and pizzas, fresh fish and shellfish every morning). Laze in the hammocks during the day and hang out at the gazebo bar for dreamy evenings.

Enjoy free and privileged access to a private section of Cirali beach, a protected site and a hatching ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Go for a bike ride and venture along the mountainous paths lined with sweet-smelling orange trees. Ancient Olympos, once described by Cicero as a rich and highly decorated city, is a 10-minute walk away in the Beydaglari Coastal National Park. Located on the edge of a peaceful valley, dominated by the mass of Mount Omurga, this archaeological site includes baths, aqueducts and agora and has a real, rural charm. Wild vineyards, fig trees, pine trees, oleanders and laurels combine with ancient ruins and a small river to create a captivating setting.

Optional - Sunset cruise. On Olympos beach, board a schooner for a second adventure out at sea. The setting sun lights up the sea and the mountains with every shade of pink and purple, while a light breeze blows and the water laps against the hull. And, to make the whole experience even more delicious, enjoy a mouthwatering mezze feast, little dishes that are enjoyed with pitta bread. This is usually the moment when visitors vow to make a return trip to Turkey as soon as they can.