Guide to buying property in Altinkum, Bodrum Peninsula
Situated northwest of Bodrum on Turkey's Aegean Coast, delightful Altinkum (meaning 'golden sands') is a small and busy, but exceptionally friendly resort which bears a deserved reputation as a 'well-kept secret'destination that stands up to repeat visits. It is a resort that has been particularly receptive to the needs of British holidaymakers, with most of the local population speaking English, and many of the restaurants, bars and cafés including plenty of typical English fare amongst Turkish cuisine on their menus. It should also be noted that Altinkum is a popular resort amongst Turks, a fact that greatly pleases those holidaymakers always keen to 'eat where the locals eat'.
The name Altinkum actually refers to the beach area of the town of Didim, the compact heart of the resort having developed from directly behind what is popularly known as First Beach. From this large bay of soft, golden sands, many water sports are undertaken, so there are always fun activities that the whole family can either participate in or merely enjoy watching. Altinkum is particularly popular with families as the Aegean waters directly off First Beach are clear and shallow, so especially safe for young children and non-swimmers to paddle and splash about in.
Altinkum is very much a laid back resort, the ideal place to sit outside a café or in the lovely Tea Garden to watch the world moving by at a slow pace as you sip Turkish coffee or apple tea, shooting the breeze with the friendly locals. There can be no doubt that the welcoming attitude of this resort, where friendships with the local people are frequently forged, contributes greatly to so many returning to Altinkum time and again.
Most anywhere in Turkey, you will never find yourself too far from extraordinary historical sites, and Altinkum is no exception. Nearby are the ruins of Branchidai, the site of an ancient temple which has been excavated since 1873, and here can be found wonderfully preserved inscriptions and carvings that include the head of the snake-haired Medusa, plus busts of Apollo, Jupiter and many other mythological divinities. Close to these Apollon temple ruins, seven rows of seats from a stadium have been unearthed, and it is thought that this site was commonly used for the religious rites and ceremonies of the day.
A charming resort that has so much more to offer than its small size would suggest, there is always plenty to be seeing and doing both during the day and in the evenings, when Altinkum vibrates with popular and traditional music from every bar and café. We have chosen accommodation to suit all tastes in Didim, both close to the heart of the action, and a little more removed from it for those that may prefer more peace and privacy.