Tucked away in the Kemer district of Antalya, the tranquil village of Çıralı is fast becoming a go-to escape for both Turkish holidaymakers and international tourists seeking something quieter, greener, and more authentic. With its sparkling waters, golden sands, and backdrop of forested hills, this Mediterranean retreat offers a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
Cirali, Turkey/Alexey Komarov/Wikimedia Commons
Often described as one of the Mediterranean’s best-kept secrets, Çıralı offers more than just a picturesque beach. Visitors are welcomed into an unspoiled environment where time slows down, and the rhythm of daily life aligns with nature, according to Daily Sabah.
Small-scale, family-run guesthouses and eco-conscious boutique stays are nestled among the trees, inviting guests to enjoy a slower pace and a more sustainable travel experience.
“The sea is exceptionally clean and the nature is simply breathtaking,” says Derya Yavuz, a local bungalow owner. “We don’t just sell rooms here—we earn a living thanks to the nature around us. That’s why we do everything we can to protect it.”
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword in Çıralı—it’s a way of life. The community has made a conscious choice to steer clear of mass tourism, favouring minimal-impact hospitality instead. Yavuz highlights the contrast between Çıralı and the resort-heavy areas nearby:
“Unlike the big five-star hotels, we only offer bed-and-breakfast. I believe tourism should mean freedom. Here, guests can choose how they spend their day—maybe fresh fish at a seaside restaurant or traditional gözleme made by a local villager. It’s about experiencing real life, real food, and real people.”
Lycian Way/Oscar Sky/Unsplash
Beyond the beach, Çıralı also serves as a base for exploring one of Türkiye’s most iconic trekking routes, the Lycian Way. In spring and autumn, hikers take to the trails to discover ancient ruins, quiet coves, and scenic mountain paths. Whether it’s kayaking, wandering through nearby historic sites, or simply watching the sunset from a hammock, the experience is immersive and unrushed.
The village’s architecture reflects its values—no high-rises, no sprawling resorts. Instead, individual wooden bungalows are built in harmony with the landscape. Each unit offers comfort and convenience, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and refrigerators, while maintaining a deep connection with nature.
“People come here to escape the city, to quiet their minds,” says Yavuz. “It’s also great for families—no traffic, no stress. Children are free to run to the sea and back, all day long.”
In Çıralı, green hills meet turquoise seas, and every day begins with birdsong and ends with stargazing. For travellers looking to reconnect with nature—and themselves—this Mediterranean sanctuary may just be the perfect place.
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