Kabak Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, where to stay and how to get around Kabak, Turkey. This comprehensive travel guide covers it all including nearby destinations and excursions.


Introduction to Kabak

Kabak is a stunning village situated on the Lycian Coast in Mediterranean Turkey. The village is surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty, and it’s no surprise that it’s become a popular destination among those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both. Kabak offers visitors the opportunity to explore hidden coves, hike through dense forests, and take in breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea.

If you’re looking for a destination where you can connect with nature and experience a laid-back way of life, then Kabak should be on your list of must-see places.

List of Places to Visit in Kabak

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Patara Ancient City: Visit the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Patara and marvel at the well-preserved ruins of the city’s amphitheatre, baths, and tombs.
  • Xanthos Ancient City: Explore the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Xanthos, which dates back to the 8th century BC.
  • Letoon Ancient City: Visit the ruins of Letoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can see the remains of the ancient temples of Leto, Artemis, and Apollo.

Natural Attractions of Kabak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kabak Beach: Relax on the stunning Kabak Beach, a secluded cove with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by steep cliffs.
  • Butterfly Valley: Hike through the Butterfly Valley, a lush canyon that got its name from the rare species of butterflies that can be found there.
  • Lycian Way: Walk a section of the Lycian Way, a long-distance trekking route that runs along the Mediterranean coast of Turkey.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kabak

  • Kabak to Alinca: Take a hike from Kabak to Alinca, a traditional mountain village where you can get a closer look at rural life in Turkey.
  • Kabak to Faralya: Hike from Kabak to Faralya and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
  • Mountain Biking: Rent a mountain bike and take on the challenging terrain of the mountains around Kabak.

Best Things to Do in Kabak: Activities and Tours

  • Paragliding: Take a tandem paragliding flight and soar over the mountains and coastline of Kabak.
  • Boat Tours: Rent a boat and discover the hidden coves and beaches around Kabak.
  • Yoga Retreats: Join one of the many yoga retreats that take place in Kabak and connect with your mind, body, and soul.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kabak

Day 1 Arrival, check-in at hotel, relax on the beach
Day 2 Hike from Kabak to Alinca
Day 3 Take a boat tour and visit nearby coves and beaches
Day 4 Join a yoga retreat
Day 5 Paragliding over the mountains and coast
Day 6 Hike from Kabak to Faralya
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kabak

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pide: A popular Turkish flatbread with various toppings like cheese, minced meat and vegetables.
  • Manti: Tiny dumplings with a filling of spiced meat, served with yoghurt and garlic sauce.
  • Tantuni: A dürüm wrap filled with seasoned meat and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Raki: A traditional Turkish anise-flavoured alcoholic drink.
  • Ayran: A refreshing beverage made from yoghurt, water and salt.

Where to Stay in Kabak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Kabak: A hotel with scenic views of Kabak Bay and cozy wooden bungalows surrounded by nature.
  • Flower Palace Pension: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a terrace with stunning views.
  • Baba Pension: A family-run guesthouse set in a peaceful location with a restaurant serving delicious food.

What to Buy in Kabak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Turkish Delight: A sweet, chewy confection made from sugar and starch, often flavoured with rosewater or pistachio.
  • Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is a popular local product in the region.
  • Handmade Carpets: Traditional hand-woven carpets from Turkey make great souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kabak

  • Religion: Turkey is predominantly a Muslim country, and it’s essential to respect local customs and dress codes when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but many people in Kabak speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Etiquette: Friendly greetings and polite conversation are appreciated, and it is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.

Best Time to Visit Kabak

The best time to visit Kabak is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat that summers usually offer. The busy tourist season is July and August when temperatures can reach their peak, and prices can be high.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kabak

Do:

  • Respect the Local Culture: Observe local customs and be respectful of religious sites and dress codes.
  • Explore the Natural Beauty: Take advantage of the outdoor activities on offer, including hiking, paragliding and boat tours.
  • Try the Local Food: Turkish cuisine is delicious, and Kabak offers visitors a range of local dishes to try.

Don’t:

  • Forget Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially during the summer months, so it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
  • Litter: Keep Kabak clean and leave nothing but footprints.
  • Haggle: Haggling is common in Turkey, but it’s best to do it in a respectful manner.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kabak

Kabak is a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always best to take precautions, such as not leaving your valuables unattended or walking alone in isolated areas.

Health in Kabak

There are no specific health risks associated with Kabak, but it’s always best to take precautions such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Kabak: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kabak

  • Dalaman Airport: Located about 1.5 hours away from Kabak, Dalaman is the closest airport to Kabak.
  • Antalya Airport: Located about 3 hours away from Kabak, Antalya is another airport that’s convenient for visitors flying to Turkey.

Bus Stations Near Kabak

  • Fethiye Bus Station: Fethiye is the nearest large town to Kabak, and there are frequent buses to and from Fethiye.

Other Options

  • Private Transfers: Private transfers are available from both Dalaman and Antalya airports to Kabak.
  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is also an option for those who want to explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Kabak

The best way to get around Kabak is on foot or by renting a scooter. Taxis are also available but can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Kabak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fethiye: Travel to nearby Fethiye, a charming town on the Lycian Coast with an old town, lively marina, and lots of shopping opportunities.
  • Oludeniz: Visit Oludeniz, a popular beach resort famous for the Blue Lagoon and excellent water sports activities.
  • Kayakoy: Explore the ghost village of Kayakoy, where abandoned buildings offer an insight into the region’s history.

Conclusion

Kabak is a hidden gem in Turkey, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and relax in a laid-back atmosphere. With a range of outdoor activities, delicious local cuisine, and stunning natural beauty all around, Kabak is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable travel experience in Turkey.

Kabak beach, as seen from Kabak village Kabak beach, as seen from Kabak village One of the waterfalls in the Kabak valley One of the waterfalls in the Kabak valley View towards the sea View towards the sea