Turkey’s south-west coast — running from Marmaris to Antalya — is one of the world’s great drives. Ancient Lycian civilisation, Byzantine ruins, and water so clear it defies reasonable expectation.

The Road

The D400 is the main coastal highway. In places it runs along cliff edges with the sea directly below; in others it drops to beach level before climbing again through pine forest. The Köyceğiz lake system near Dalyan is navigable by van and boat; the blue lagoon at Ölüdeniz is one of the most photographed spots in Turkey (deservedly). Between Kas and Finike the road becomes particularly dramatic and significantly less touristed.

Practical Van Notes

Petrol is widely available and cheaper than Western Europe. Wild camping is generally tolerated — we found excellent cliff-top spots above the ruins at Patara and Xanthos where we were the only vehicle for miles. Turkish fuel stations have extraordinary facilities — many have restaurants, showers, and laundry. Plan your stops around them rather than around sights and you will be comfortable.