Day 3: Hidden Gems

    Today was a sponeneous hidden gem day. Flipping through Lonely Planet Turkey book I saw a small write up about a villager's breakfast spot on our way to south of TR. To find the village of Kirazli, we had to come up with some creative ideas but this population of 80 people village is known for their sustainable farming, most famously cherries and grapes. We had a breakfast at Koy Sofrasi at the Lonely Planet spot and the experience was quite interesting. Sitting on the floor tables we were tasting local honey, cheese and eggs from the farm next door. So much about the civilization and city life so we were up for a secluded day in all aspects.

Today's drive was the longest and on the way to Datca where we were going to spend the night our friends Ercin and Miray recommended yet another hidden gem, Akbuk, down the Gokova Valley. Driving along the coast for 30km(which we were told 10 by locals:)) going up and down the mountains we were getting a bit overwhelmed with the drive. But the long drive was worth it. We were in Akbuk, translates to White Cove, and the green water color, perfect water temp and amazing weather. We felt like we were the only "tourists" there. I grabbed a fish and bread (balik ekmek) for lunch which was quite delicious. Our unplanned pit stop had to end but I'll never forget the mountain-wrapped cove of Akbuk and it's water.

Heading to Datca we had to climb through yet another mountain. Datca is a peninsula that separates Aegian sea from the Mediterranean. You can feel the water changing temperature the Med being the warmer and saltier one. When we arrived to our 'known' hidden gem boutique hotel, Villa Asina, right away we knew we were in Heaven. The neighborhood of Datca that we stayed is called hidden village(Saklikoy) and there were really not many activity around this little corner spot. Villa Asina is the dream of man that owns, cooks and operates the place. I've spoke to him a few minutes and he is quite an interesting person. Wait until I post the pictures of his lobby and the outside porch. He built a pool that you feel like you are in the sea because it is in the same eye level as the sea. Hammocks waiting to be utilized we watched the beautiful horizon of Datca.

Breakfast @ Villa Asina was spectacular

Back facade of the hotel

hammock looking towards the Meditterenean

We fell in love with this hotel. Thank you Priya!!

At night we drove to the harbor and had a fish for dinner for change:) this quaint town wasn't commercialized and it was the home of yachts and boats. We even saw a beautiful catamaran pulled up for dinner. Heading back to to hotel the sky was so clear and unlit that we could see the milky way and Orion stars. Had a random chat with our Brit neighbors on our balcony. They come here every year and stay 2 weeks and do literally nothing. That's the way to enjoy this family oriented place. The view from our room was spectacular period. Datca, we'll come to visit you again, promise!