Dalyan Happy Caretta Hotel

[Siyabend]

A happy, unpretentious small hotel set directly by Dalyans river in full view of the Lycian royal tombs. It is easily the best among some 20 family-run pensions and modest hotels lining the river bend.

The very welcoming hosts - İlknur, Münir, their small daughter, three dogs and two rabbits - support a peaceful, homey establishment. The garden lies in the shade of century-old cypresses: it is an ideal place for lazy days lulled by the hypnotic monotone of the riverboats. The rooms, on the other hand, have little to write home about; the loft feels more like a vast and cluttered family room than a hotel lounge. The distance to town centre is good, far enough from the evening crowds yet a mere five minutes by bicycle. It is possible to swim in the river if you dont mind the occasional inquisitive turtle: otherwise it is a half-hour riverboat ride through the vast water-logged labyrinth of the delta to one of Turkeys best beaches.

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