Alaçatı. Aegean chic amid historical charm

Green Island Holidays invites you to discover the pretty, laidback town of Alaçatı on the Aegean coast, 72 km west of Izmir, one of Turkey's closest-kept secrets. Join the resident artists who love its charming old stone houses with turquoise shutters on cobbled streets lined with cafes and restaurants that serve fresh Aegean cuisine, and enjoy the sense of quiet luxury combined with relaxed hospitality provided by its numerous boutique hotels. Easily accessible from Izmir Airport, the nearby 2km-long Ilica beach extends between Çeşme and Alaçatı, while the pristine golden sands of the Pırlanta and Altınkum beaches are a delight.



Backed by hillsides of vineyards and olive groves, Alaçatı is renowned for its converted windmills, historical village ambiance and great local food. Dining out is an artform so be sure to try such regional specialities as stuffed artichoke (enginar dolması), stuffed courgette blossoms (kabak çiçeği dolması) and fish burgers (balık köftesi) at venues of the highest international standards.

Until recently known only to the most-discerning Turkish holidaymakers, Alaçatı is perfect for enjoying the delights of the surrounding sleepy Çeşme peninsula. These include world-famous sites Pergamon (Bergama) and Ephesus, the ancient Ionian city of Erythrai near Ildir, the therapeutic thermal springs of Ilica and the boutique Urlice Vineyard where you can taste the best of local wines. Contact Green Island Holidays to arrange excursions to all of these as well as short walking tours in the area.