Alacati holidays

Alacati holidays put a Greek spin on Turkey – expect windmills, white-sand beaches and world-class archaeological sites.

Turkey with the Midas touch

A quick Google Images search of Alacati, and you might think you’re looking at somewhere Greek. That’s because this vibrant hidden gem – with its whitewashed buildings, cyan-blue shutters and magenta bougainvillea flowers – was founded by the Greeks in the 17th century. We have them to thank for the town’s Santorini-style windmills and stone mosques, which were originally Orthodox churches. But it’s surfing enthusiasts that really put this place on the tourism map…

A top spot for watersports

Alacati is just a 10-minute drive from the breezy beaches on the Aegean Coast, making it a popular destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing and paddle-boarding. Ilica Plaji is a particularly popular one – its shallow waters are said to have healing powers. If you’d rather sunbathe on the sand than splash around in the sea, you’ve also got unspoiled coves like Delikli Bay to lay out your towel at. It’s off the beaten track, without a beach bar in sight.

Heaven for history buffs

There are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing here. The 500-year-old Cesme Castle – built to protect the city after Venetian attacks – is less than a 20-minute drive away. And if you drive a couple of hours to Ephesus, you can wander around one of the most important cities in the ancient Mediterranean world. Alacati’s also famous for its wine, having produced it since the Bronze Age. Learn all about it – and sample Bornova Misketi, a popular white wine in the region – at one of the many local vineyards.