Kizkalesi Marina
- Historical Background
- Things to See
- Kizkalesi Castle
- The Ancient City of Korykos
- The Mersin Yacht Club
- Things to Do
- How to Get There
- Where to Stay
- Where to Eat
- Shopping
- Festivals and Events
- Beaches
- Nature and Wildlife
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Off the Beaten Path
- Insider Tip
Historical Background
Kizkalesi Marina is a small but charming marina located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, in the Mersin province. The marina is built around a 12th-century castle, known as Kizkalesi Castle, which was built by the Armenian king Levon I. The castle was originally built as a watchtower to protect the coast from pirates and invaders. However, it later became a prison and a place of exile for political prisoners. In the 19th century, the castle was converted into a marina, and it has been a popular destination for yachts and boats ever since.
The legend of the maiden's castle
There is a legend associated with Kizkalesi Castle that has been passed down for generations. According to the legend, a beautiful princess was once imprisoned in the castle by her father, who was afraid that she would be kidnapped by a handsome prince. The princess was desperate to escape, so she made a deal with a fisherman to help her. The fisherman agreed to help the princess, and he rowed her out to a small island near the castle. The princess then jumped into the water and swam to the island, where she was rescued by the prince.
Architectural significance of the marina
Kizkalesi Marina is a beautiful example of medieval architecture. The marina is built around a central courtyard, which is surrounded by a series of arches and columns. The arches and columns are decorated with intricate carvings, and the courtyard is paved with cobblestones. The marina also has a number of towers, which were used to defend the castle from attack.
Things to See
Kizkalesi Marina is a great place to explore the rich history and culture of the region. Here are some of the top things to see in the area:
Kizkalesi Castle
The most iconic landmark of Kizkalesi is its castle, which is located on a small island just off the coast. The castle was built in the 13th century by the Armenian king Levon II, and it served as a defensive outpost against invading forces. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore its many towers and chambers.
The Ancient City of Korykos
Korykos was an ancient Greek city that was founded in the 4th century BC. The city was once a major trading center, and its ruins are still visible today. Visitors can explore the remains of the city walls, the agora, and the theater.
The Mersin Yacht Club
The Mersin Yacht Club is a popular destination for boaters and sailors. The club offers a variety of services, including boat rentals, sailing lessons, and regattas. Visitors can also enjoy the club's restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.
Things to Do
Kizkalesi Marina offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the ancient ruins, or try your hand at water sports, you'll find plenty to keep you busy here.
Swimming and sunbathing: The marina has several beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and build sandcastles. The water is clean and clear, and the sand is soft and white.
Fishing and diving: The waters around Kizkalesi are home to a variety of fish, making it a great spot for fishing and diving. You can fish from the shore or from a boat, and there are several dive shops in the marina where you can rent equipment and get certified.
Boating and sailing: Kizkalesi Marina is a popular destination for boating and sailing. You can rent a boat from the marina and explore the coastline, or you can join one of the many sailing tours that are offered.
How to Get There
Kizkalesi Marina is easily accessible by air, road, and sea.
By air: The closest airport is Adana Airport (ADA), located approximately 75 kilometers from Kizkalesi. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the marina. The journey takes about an hour.
By road: From Mersin, you can take the coastal road (D-400) east for about 60 kilometers to reach Kizkalesi. The journey takes about an hour and a half.
From Adana, you can take the O-51 highway east for about 100 kilometers, then turn south onto the D-400 road. The journey takes about two hours.
By sea: Kizkalesi Marina is a popular destination for yachts and sailboats. There are several marinas in the area where you can dock your boat. You can also take a ferry from other Turkish ports, such as Antalya, Alanya, and Istanbul.
Where to Stay
Kizkalesi offers a diverse range of accommodation options, catering to different budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels and resorts to cozy apartments and villas, there's something for everyone.
For those seeking a lavish stay, the Kizkalesi Marina Hotel is an excellent choice. This five-star hotel boasts elegant rooms and suites, a private beach, a spa, and several restaurants. The Limak Limra Hotel is another popular option, offering similar amenities and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
For those on a tighter budget, there are several affordable hotels and guesthouses available in Kizkalesi. These typically offer basic but comfortable accommodations, with some featuring shared facilities. Apartments and villas for rent are also a great option for families or groups, providing more space and privacy.
For a unique and immersive experience, consider camping or caravanning at one of the designated campsites in the area. This is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors while still being close to the marina and other attractions.
Where to Eat
Kizkalesi offers a diverse range of dining options, catering to various tastes and budgets. From traditional Turkish cuisine to international flavors, there's something for everyone.
For an authentic Turkish dining experience, visit one of the many local restaurants that line the marina. These restaurants serve up delicious dishes prepared using fresh, local ingredients. Some popular choices include grilled meats, meze platters, and fresh seafood.
If you're craving international cuisine, you'll find a selection of restaurants offering Italian, Chinese, and Indian food, among others. These restaurants often have outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful views of the marina.
For a quick bite to eat, there are several cafes and bars in Kizkalesi that serve light snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. These cafes are great places to relax and people-watch while enjoying a refreshing beverage.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting the local markets in Kizkalesi. These markets sell a variety of fresh produce, as well as ready-to-eat meals and snacks. You can find everything from traditional Turkish dishes to international fare at these markets, all at affordable prices.
No matter what your taste or budget, you're sure to find something to your liking in Kizkalesi. From traditional Turkish cuisine to international flavors, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Shopping
Kizkalesi offers a variety of shopping options, from souvenir shops to local markets.
The souvenir shops in Kizkalesi are located mainly in the town center and sell a variety of items, including traditional Turkish handicrafts, pottery, carpets, and jewelry. You can find unique and authentic souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your trip to Kizkalesi.
Local markets are a great place to buy fresh produce, spices, and other local goods. The Mersin Farmers' Market is a popular market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local products.
If you are looking for a more modern shopping experience, you can head to the shopping malls in Mersin. The Mersin Mall and the Forum Mersin are two of the largest shopping malls in the city and offer a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Festivals and Events
Kizkalesi Marina is a popular destination for festivals and events throughout the year. The most famous of these is the Kizkalesi Marina Festival, which is held annually in July. The festival features live music, dancing, food, and games, as well as a variety of water sports activities.
Another popular event is the Mersin International Music Festival, which is held in August. This festival features performances by musicians from all over the world, and it attracts visitors from all over Turkey and beyond.
Finally, the Mersin Orange Blossom Festival is held in April each year. This festival celebrates the orange blossom harvest, and it features a variety of events, including a parade, a flower show, and a food fair.
Beaches
Kizkalesi Marina is a popular destination for beach lovers, offering a range of beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands.
Kizkalesi Beach is the most popular beach in the area, located just a short walk from the marina. It offers a wide stretch of sand with plenty of space to relax and sunbathe. The waters are calm and shallow, making it a safe place for swimming and paddling.
Mersin Beach is another popular option, located in the city of Mersin, just a short drive from Kizkalesi. It is a longer and wider beach with a more lively atmosphere. The beach is lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars, and there are plenty of water sports activities on offer.
Soli Beach is a more secluded beach, located about 30 minutes' drive from Kizkalesi. It is a beautiful beach with white sands and turquoise waters, backed by a dramatic cliff. The beach is less crowded than the other beaches in the area, making it a good option for those looking for a more peaceful experience.
Nature and Wildlife
Kizkalesi is a natural paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The Kizkalesi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, with over 250 species recorded, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons. The sanctuary is a great place to go birdwatching and photography.
Mersin National Park is another must-visit for nature lovers. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including forests, wetlands, and beaches. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife watching in the park.
Tekir Toroslar Nature Park is a beautiful mountain range that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can also see a variety of wildlife in the park, including bears, wolves, and deer.
Family-Friendly Activities
Kizkalesi Marina is also a great place for families with children. There are several family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as the Kizkalesi Aquarium, the Mersin Waterpark, and the Mersin Zoo.
The Kizkalesi Aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including fish, sharks, and rays. Children will love learning about the different creatures that live in the sea and seeing them up close.
The Mersin Waterpark is a great place to cool off on a hot day. The waterpark has a variety of water slides, pools, and other water features that children will love.
The Mersin Zoo is home to a variety of animals from all over the world. Children will love seeing the different animals and learning about their habitats.
In addition to these attractions, there are also several playgrounds and parks in Kizkalesi Marina where children can play and run around.
Off the Beaten Path
Kizkalesi and Mersin offer a variety of attractions for the adventurous traveler who wants to get off the beaten path. For history buffs, a visit to the ancient city of Olba is a must. Located about 30 kilometers from Mersin, Olba is home to well-preserved Roman ruins, including a theater, a temple, and a necropolis.
Hikers can explore the stunning Taurus Mountains, which offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. For those who want to experience the local culture, a visit to one of the many coastal villages is a great way to meet the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.
Insider Tip
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kizkalesi Marina is during the shoulder seasons, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is still warm and sunny but without the crowds and high prices of the summer months. In July and August, the marina is packed with Turkish and international tourists, and prices for accommodation and activities are at their highest.
How to Save Money
There are a few ways to save money on your trip to Kizkalesi Marina. First, travel during the shoulder seasons or winter months. Second, take advantage of the many free activities available, such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Third, eat at local restaurants and cafes instead of tourist traps. Fourth, shop for souvenirs at local markets instead of tourist shops.
Tips for Getting Around
The best way to get around Kizkalesi Marina is on foot or by bicycle. The marina is small and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of bike rental shops in the area. You can also take a taxi or minibus if you need to go further afield.
