Things To Do in Turgutreis

Despite the name, the Mona Lisa will put a smile on your face. Owner Ash is all about presentation, from the classy decor to the appetisingly arranged plates – though even he can’t take credit for the fabulous sunset views. As for the food, of course the specialities here are the steak – which is consistently good – and the fish. The king prawns and grilled calamari are particularly popular. Booking is advised.

It’ll cost you a bit more to eat at the seafront restaurants, but the sunset views are worth it. For some dinnertime drama, try the clay pot kebabs – lamb and tomato sauce cooked in a pot and smashed open at your table before serving. Turn up hungry, as most places serve up free salad and balloon bread – a sort of puffed-up pitta – on the side.

To say the weekly market on Saturday is huge is a bit of an understatement. There’s so much to pack in, the stalls are split into sections for food, clothes, jewellery and homeware. For souvenirs, look out for colourful gourd lamps and traditional Turkish embroidery. Or just wander round the racks of cheese, olives and fruit for picnic inspiration.

One of the best ways to see the countryside around Turgutreis is from the saddle of one of the well-groomed horses at the Turgutreis Country Ranch, about four kilometres west of the town centre. They’ve got horses for all abilities and sizes – including Shetland ponies for little riders.

In Bar Street, in the centre of town, the cheap drinks and DJs come with the territory. If you fancy a more traditional night out, though, head for the marina. You’ll get live bands playing up-tempo folk tunes on the baglama, a sort of extra-long lute. And if you ask nicely, the locals might even teach you a few dance moves.

Lazing rather than watersports is the order of the day on Turgutreis’ beach. Along the 500-metre stretch you’ll find plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. The sunloungers tend to be attached to the bars, and though most are free it’s the done thing to buy a couple of drinks in return for the favour.

Turgutreis takes its name from local hero Turgut Reis, an Ottoman admiral who battled his way around the Med and beyond. You can get to know more about the man at Sabanci Park, just outside town, where he first set sail. Naval history aside, it’s a tranquil spot with lawns and palm-lined pathways. And, rather fittingly, the sea view here is first rate.

At night, the marina is a romantic spot. Yachts and boats bob on the moonlit water as couples take a post-dinner stroll. If you’re looking for a bar, let your ears guide you and follow the sound of the baglama – a kind of Turkish lute – which is played at some of the places along here. If you want things louder and livelier, there’s always Bar Street in town.

The marina setting ticks a major box for the Boom Bar. And the place has maximised its waterfront view with a wood-floored bar that segues seamlessly into the al fresco terrace. Sit back with a cold Efes beer while you enjoy the sea breeze and the sight of yachts bobbing on the water. It’s not the cheapest drinking place in Turgutreis, but it gets top marks for its refined atmosphere.