Occupying a narrow
peninsular on the sparkling Mediterranean coast, its history stretches back
thousands of years. The resort is surrounded by stunning ruins, including
the waterside Temple of Apollo and a well preserved Roman amphitheatre,
which still hosts colourful performances. Side’s archaeological importance
means there are strict local planning regulations, which has helped the town
maintain its charming character. Strolling down the pedestrianized main
street brings you to a harbour filled with pleasure boats and overlooked by
restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a relaxed sunset drink. The town’s
long sandy beaches are some of the best on the entire Turkish coast and have
established the resort as one of the country’s top tourist destinations.
Paragliding, diving, jet-skis – every kind water sport is available- while
many prefer just to laze in the warm Mediterranean sun.
Side is at the centre of a beautiful and very
diverse region where the Taurus Mountains descend to the Pamphylian Plain. The
unspoilt Sorgun forest, just east of the resort, offers walks or horse riding
along its sandy trails. Two golf courses are planned for this area, joining the
6 courses already at Belek, which is only 30 minutes away. Indeed, with over 30
courses planned for the Antalya region over the next 10 years, Side promises to
be at the centre of Europe’s most exciting new golfing area.
Nearby Aspendos has a fantastic Roman theatre,
which hosts a dazzling annual festival of breathtaking opera, ballet and musical
performances during the summer months.
The waterfalls on the jade green Manavgat River
are another popular local attraction. Further into the pine-forested mountains,
a Roman bridge spans a rushing river in the Koprulu Canyon National Park, which
is one of Turkey’s premier white water rafting venues.
Why Side?
Popular family resort with excellent beaches
and facilities
45-minutes from Antalya International
airport, with direct, year-round flights from the UK and other European
countries
Easy access to golf courses and at the centre
of one of Europe’s most exciting new golfing areas
Diverse local activities and attractions,
including white water rafting, trekking and horse riding
Good shopping and year-round services, with
several large local supermarkets
Excellent medical facilities, including
international standard private clinics and hospitals with English-speaking staff
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Buoyant local property market with strong rental
demand
