SEYDİKEMER

Seydikemer is one of the youngest districts of Muğla. It gained district status through the Law No. 6360 following the local elections on March 30, 2014. Seydikemer, which takes its name from the historic Kemer Bridge, is noted for its natural wonders and historical richness.

Seydikemer stands out not only for tourism but also in agriculture and animal husbandry. A significant portion of the district’s economy is based on agriculture and animal husbandry. Approximately 60% of the population is engaged in agriculture, and the region is among Turkey’s leading areas in the production of fresh vegetables and fruits.

Seydikemer invites everyone who wants to explore the generosity of nature and the depths of history. By visiting this unique district, you can both immerse yourself in history and discover the beauty of nature.

Main Historical and Archaeological Destinations

Dodurga Sidyma Ancient City

Located in the Dodurga neighborhood of Seydikemer, Sidyma Ancient City is an important historical site that developed during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The acropolis features cisterns and building ruins, while the valley contains an inscribed tomb, temple, bath, and theater remains. Numerous sarcophagi and two monumental tombs (heroon) also stand out in the area where today’s Dodurga neighborhood is located. Sidyma is a treasure waiting to be discovered by history and archaeology enthusiasts.

Pınara Ancient City

Located in the Minare neighborhood of Seydikemer, Pınara Ancient City is an important Lycian settlement included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Thought to have been founded by colonists from Xanthos, Pınara is notable for its baths, theater, agora, odeon, and two acropoleis. The rock-carved tombs on the upper acropolis provide information about Lycian civil architecture. The lower acropolis contains the odeon, agora, temples, and pillar tombs. Pınara is an ancient city worth discovering for its historical richness and natural beauty.

Tlos Ancient City

Located in the Yaka neighborhood of Seydikemer, Tlos Ancient City is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and is one of the oldest settlements in the Lycian region. It is noted for its acropolis, rock-carved temple tombs, and natural defense structure. The city includes a theater, stadium, bath, church ruins, and Roman period walls. Tlos, known as the sports city of Lycia, has an uninterrupted settlement history from the Neolithic period to the Ottoman era.

Natural and Cultural Heritage

Girmeler Hot Spring

The village of Girmeler in Seydikemer derives its name from its healing hot spring. The village, formerly known as “Gebeler,” was named due to the belief that the hot spring was beneficial for women having difficulty in conceiving. Girmeler Hot Spring is also known for treating rheumatic diseases, skin conditions, and dermatological issues. Analyses and user experiences confirm the healing effects of the water. The ever-fresh and clean hot spring water is an ideal destination for those wishing to discover nature’s healing power.

Saklıkent Canyon

Located within the borders of Seydikemer, Saklıkent Canyon is a stunning natural wonder with steep valleys at an altitude of 1000-1100 meters within a national park. Formed by the Karaçay branch of the Eşen River, the canyon is 18 kilometers long and 200 meters high. The narrowest point is only 2 meters wide, formed by fault cracks in a calcareous terrain. Saklıkent Canyon is an ideal destination for adventure and nature lovers due to its natural beauty and cultural richness.

Gizlikent Waterfall

One of Seydikemer’s popular spots, Gizlikent Waterfall, is an ideal escape point for those seeking to cool off during Muğla’s hot summer days. Covered with lush green trees, this area offers a refreshing walking route and a chance to rest by taking a break in the icy waters of the waterfall. This walk, surrounded by nature, will provide you an unforgettable day.

Lycian Way

The Lycian Way is a long and challenging hiking route. Therefore, instead of walking the entire route at once, we recommend exploring a specific part of it. To fully complete the Lycian Way, you should plan a long-term hike and organize a professional trekking event. Being prepared to explore the route and enjoy nature will provide you an unforgettable experience.

Girdev Plateau

Girdev Lake, the only lake in Seydikemer, is one of the most important bird-watching areas in the world and is home to 128 bird species. The plateau, located at an altitude of 1800 meters, is an ideal place for astronomical observations, offering the opportunity to watch the sky on cloudless summer nights. Girdev stands out for its rich vegetation and traditional nomadic lifestyle. The Girdev cheese and butter made from goats grazing in the mountains are famous. It is also suitable for nature sports such as paragliding, trekking, and camping.

Seydiler Rug

The Dont Jug is a traditional handicraft made from the region’s characteristic red clay and requires skilled craftsmanship. The making of this jug, shaped with patience and balance by the skillful and dedicated local women, is currently carried out by only five masters. Unfortunately, the production of Dont Jugs is among the traditional crafts that are gradually disappearing. Each stage of the pitcher is carefully crafted and reflects the cultural heritage of the region.

Dont Pitcher (Dont is the name of the neighborhood)

The Dont Pitcher is a traditional handicraft made from the region’s characteristic red clay and requires skilled craftsmanship. The making of this jug, shaped with patience and balance by the skillful and dedicated local women, is currently carried out by only five masters. Unfortunately, the production of Dont Jugs is among the traditional crafts that are gradually disappearing. Each stage of the pitcher is carefully crafted and reflects the cultural heritage of the region.

Main Bays and Beaches

Karadere Beach

Patara Beach

Recommended Activities

Grape Harvest Festival (Autumn Season)

Seki Oil Wrestling (Summer Season)