Gobble Up Turkey

What a day to look forward to, heading up to 3400 feet and then plotting a way down through mountainous terrain – who would not be excited.

Farewelled  the Saffies and it was in the car for a call to the bakers  to buy two huge bags of bread, which was a bit puzzling until after dinner our host said he provides bread to the shepherds in the hills 3 times a week.

We then proceeded on a slalom course,up the hill, on a road about one and a half cars wide, taking hairpin bends at ridiculous speed. We stopped on a 25 degree gradient to pass over some bread whilst Jane and  I looked nervously over the edge. That was followed by a little off-road excursion to point out some track entrances and yes a reversal back to main road with a 2000 feet drop awaiting  and poor steering.

Reached the top and got  out to be greeted by a huge dog resembling a lion. He put his paws on my shoulder, looking for a pat.  The dogs over here have that sad look in their eye and respond marvelously to a simple bit of affection. 

A bread drop off for our host and some unexpected instructions- “ it’s a 2.5 walk up those hills to the ruins where you start todays walk’.

It was a scary walk on a very narrow edge hugging path, made difficult by the scree and it’s stony nature. After just under an hour we arrive at the ruins. Not quite as big as others but interesting all the same.

The goats enjoyed sitting on top of them as if it was a sphinx. I tested out a tomb/ tub and realised they didn’t make them in my size back those days.

At least we knew the way back and made better time heading down. We met the shephetd who was filling the feed bins for the  penned up sheep and goats, eager to eat . 

She opened the gate and it was the charge of the white brigade, surprisingly they hit the feed trough and not one bit of food was eaten. We surmised they were only after a drink as the dam level showed almost zero. That said they were shorn and in good condition.

The trip down hill was shared with goats, a couple of shepherds, trucks , scooters and cars. One bloke on a scooter seemed to be trying to arrange a taxi and one of the cars stopped and offered a ride- we declined both.

Most of the walk had been on the road as access down to the trail was too treacherous to consider. The danger was illustrated by a picture of a 40 year old guy who had been killed recently  where we were considering joining the track because it looked a tad easier.

That was enough to make up our minds to stay on the road for the 7 or 8 Kms left to the bottom.

That sobering moment had us stopping at a well and pulling out the packed lunch – it was a mini green grocer  store and had bread to boot.

It was ironic that we watched the ants gathering up our droppings of bread etc and in 25 minutes time people deep in the valley looked about the same size,

The trip down was an absolute thigh burner and found the creaky bits in the knees Looking over the edge was dizzying and the bottom never seemed to get closer. 

At that height I did solve the mystery of the offshore construction from yesterday – it turned out to be two islands with heaps of boats moored around them.

After 2.5 hours we reached the bottom and Jane plonked on a bus seat- probably one which replaced  the original  one we saw now sitting in shephetds yard up the hill.

It was ironic that after yesterdays tortoise hunt one sidled up to us while on bus seat,

Whilst sitting there a message , not a call to prayer, rang out across town. Given nobody rushed into the streets we presumed it was neither an earthquake nor foreign invasion and added that to the post of unsold mysteries.

In town found a cafe and enjoyed some yummy cakes before strolling through the middle of town with its usual myriad of illegal parkets causing traffic havoc. Jane spied the owner of the local hardware shop

Sound asleep in his chair outside the shop- suppose it was late Friday afternoon.

The town is a mass of construction, primarily driven by the influx of refugees from Ukraine, Russia and other annexed areas looking for a peaceful existence . It’s apparently tripled rents. 

On the way home mine host spotted us trudging along the road and promptly did a u-turn and drove us home. He and is wife have been wonderful hosts.

Afternoon spent doing a little bit of planning for tomorrow which is a flat 30 km walk and things to do in Istanbul , in between sipping

a couple of coldies on tne balcony.

Enjoyed a nice traditional dinner, this time with our first dessert – some yummy sugary thing full of syrup.

Bit of Sydney weather on the way with 6 days of rain forecast. We will have to take each day as it comes, especially when there is some remote mountain walking and river crossing,

No major walk planned other thanan 8 km out and back to the Limyra Ruins in the foothills behind Finike.

CTP guaranteed no sleepi in and we were fed and in the car to starting point about 9.

We found out why the town is notorious for citrus and fruit generally after walking 3 gun barrel straight roads with oranges on one side and pomegranates on the other.

We were constantly buzzed by tractors and trucks as we made our way along. Just managed to escape a spraying with some orange tree treatment as the farmer showed scant respect for walkers.

Whilst the local river was dry there was no scarcity of water in the huge channels running along both sides of the road.

They also played home to masses of tortoises, who scurried off the bank and hid amongst algae or buried in the mud, as you neared them. Our attempts to photograph proved unsuccessful.

The farmers mixed cropping with some animals using sheep and goats to keep orchards weed free. There was an amazing lack of hothouses which had been our constant companions in recent times.

Plenty of skinny and mangy farm dogs who despite their bark, really craved a bit of affection.

Must be some cows around as well, as there have been road signs along the way. There was also a couple of skulls attached to telegraph poles.

We finally reached the first pod of tombs carved into the mountain and scrambled our way up to have a peep.

Famous cafe was closed so a swig of water was our morning tea. It’s a shame as the cafe was set on a beautiful stream and even had some seats , either accidentally or deliberately, set in the water.

Went up past a farmer growing tropical fruits, which was a first over here. He advertised guava, avocado, passion fruit and pawpaw to name a few. 

His farm abutted a much larger set of ruins, including a 200 seat Amphitheatre right on the main road. Up further were  much more substantial ruins, where you paid a princely sum of $2 to enter. There were two staff operating the turnstiles and they outnumbered the guests. 

High up on the other side of the road the mountains were dotted with tens of tombs cut into the rocks. Some houses had ancient tombs or ruins in their backyards.

Also much higher up in the hills were huge quarries in spots that looked almost inaccessible.

Further down the road was a stream and type of Roman Bath being overseen by a local who also managed the prayer room.

Finished the tour and headed back along the road playing tortoise Spotto , but they seemed to have amazing hearing and all we would see was them plunging off the bank into a muddy part of the canal. That was the majority of the time. One escapee was actually climbing the rocky cliffs up to the first set of ruins and another was walking across a traffic bridge getting right of way from a local.

Closer to town we came across a decrepit house with tons of rubbish out the back and 6 little tackers, all under 7 playing in a concrete compound. Shame my attempt to photo was spoilt by an errant thumb. They were certainly living a gypsy life and it put one’s life in perspective.

Further along the high rises started dominating the housimg. Sure there won’t be any architectural prizes won for aesthetics – they are plain ugly. Only saving grace is every one has a built in pizza oven on the balcony.

Worked our way along the beach, appropriately named Sandal Beach, and found a beautiful grill place where we had some lamb. It was a ‘no price shown/ pay by the kilo’ menu and we either got a great cheap meal or Jane did not see where the decimal point was on the bill and will get a massive surprise on the credit card.

Had intentions of a swim but it was a bit blowy, so headed for home after getting provisions for tomorrow.

Chatted to the owner about tomorrows logistics and then had a little siesta, until about 4.55 when a knock on the door was followed by an announcement that dinner was ready. 

He could not understand why we could not finish our dinner just  3.5 hours after our lunch. Apparently, it was to allow him to get an early night because at 300am he was driving another guest to Antalya.

We went for a long walk into town to have a drink, but it appears it is a dry town in bars and cafes. Not sure if it is anything to do with religion, but it along with what camel fighting is, are two mysteries to be solved tomorrow.

Back at B snd B chatted to three walkers from South Africa about the way forward, as they are doing it in reverse. Seems there might be a couple of car rides and a cable car ride left for us in the next two weeks.

We looked further ahead in itinerary and will give up a day in Istanbul to travel to Gallipoli. 

Stayed up late – 900pm.

Some sort of technical glitch has prevented us adding blogs photos for these days. Here is a pictorial collage

12th October

11th October

10th October

9th October

8th October

After getting to sleep at 1230 when the music stopped, we were a bit bleary eyed going to breakfast.

Found out that it was the Turkish equivalent of a hens night, with the wedding of a local girl tomorrow. Apparently attendance is a pretty loose arrangement , with our host saying he might go depends how busy he is.

Chatted with US couple who are planning to hike a section of the walk today. No maps, not quite correct clothes and no idea on what state of track might be – so might make it an interesting 3 hours or so.

Walked past mosque, after strange payment arrangement at local store – maybe they are only ones with card payment facilities, and asked whether many people attended. Well maybe not the right question when there are 85,000 mosques which few attend and only 55,000 schools where attendance rate isn’t particularly high nor is quality of education.

Got driven by number one driver to drop off point, but was a bit worried our praise may have gone to her head because she pulled her headscarf over her eyes whilst trying to adjust and just smiled.

Dropped off high above Myra and walked down a steep road with views across the rooftops of numerous greenhouses in one direction and strangely heaps of high rise apartments on the hillsides de in the other.- facing mountains not the sea.

Got passed by the usual coasters and spotted a very big central school, with the noise of kids ringing out.

Struck our first ruin at the bottom of the hill in a park where a lone local was using the free exercise equipment. Sadly when we got to other side of monument we found our first graffiti on a historical piece.

On the flat we passed what only could be described as a Steptoe and son house   The next door neighbour deserved a replacement satellite dish from the provider as it was rusting away.

Whilst hothouses were aplenty there was a sprinkling of orange groves, which we expected in an area known for citrus production.

Lots of beautiful little kids along the way living in very impoverished conditions. 

Unlike other areas there are more dogs than cats and a friendly pat of one created a pied piper effect as we moved along – despite Jane shooing them away.

One thing Turkish people are is patriotic. If there is a pole they will hang a flag, some even emblazon it on their roof.

A seemingly ordinary stretch of road and land soon turned into the entry to Myra Ruins. It was an amazing sight with tombs all the way up the mountain side and a well preserved Amphitheatre. We wandered around taking a raft of photos that will obviously need editing after snapping everything in sight.

Did a bit of souvenir shopping and came across a family with the cutest little 3 yearold charmer. She was an automatic choice for one of Jane’s kangaroo pins and her joy on getting it was heartwarming. We left her holding her pin and finishing off her second ice cream, courtesy of Dad’s leftover.

A local with no vehicle in sight sidled up offering a taxi ride as we left, which we politely declined.

It was a flat road into Demre with no industry visible. We passed the most colourfully school you could wish to see, with kids heading home at 100pm.

Petrol is ridiculously expensive at just under $3 a litre, little wonder everyone defers to a scooter.

Demre /Myra is the supposedly home of Santa Clause and the theme was everywhere.

The sight of an Uber Eats driver sent us on a search for lunch and an ATM. First part was easy. But first couple of banks rejected our cards. Luckily over lunch we heard a guide point one out over the road. 

Lunch was nice, other than the warm beer. I managed to snap a shot of Jane and the chef, under a sign which requires some explanation.

Next it was off to see the Church of St Nicholas, not only famous as Santa, but the patron Saint of Russia. If they are short of troops in Ukraine I know why – half the population are touring here.

It was a beautiful old building which is under restoration. The bits you could see were simple but memorable. Some of the ceiling fresco’s are still in great condition.

When we got home we found out that the plastic covering the floor of the main Chapel was because they had actually found the tomb of St Nicholas recently – apparently good enough for front page coverage on Google.

There are only two archaeologists working on restorative work which still has three years to go. 

Out of the church and it was the Xmas decoration hunt for Jane and baggage minding for me with strict instructions not to pat any more stray dogs.

A rude Russian beauty gave the ice creamseller the rounds of the table about the size of her serving – perhaps if she had looked in the mirror this morning she would have realised the girl may have been doing her a favour.

Flushed with success we were off looking for our pick up point across the other side of town – where else at a bakery.

Passed a carnival, but could not elude the evil eye of the ride operator to snap a shot in the dodgems. Further along an ambitious old scruffy dog lay asleep beneath a huge meat sign on a butchery wall.

Jane found her next car – a BMW convertible into which only she would fit – glad it wasn’t the bag carrier.

Finally spotted the cafe and walked past a flash hotel with a flock of chickens in the front yard. Not sure if they were going on tonight’s menu or escapees from elsewhere.

Waited about an hour for ride to arrive in a country which appears to work on Fiji time.

Got picked up, crossed a huge dry river bed that even had a road through the middle, before doing a Cooks Tour of where we might have walked had we not changed the path to avoid the rugged mountain crossing . It was plain dangerous with steep narrow paths very close to big drops.

It was then again onto the winding coastal road with its hairpin turns and great views of the coast. The hate in him was looking for every opportunity to overtake, which meant a tight grip on the door handle for me.

There were many beaches we could walk to after our 12km return walk to the ruins tomorrow. We also had a look at the finishing line for Friday.

Stopped and triple parked while host collected some freshly baked bread for dinner, then it was off hime to a place now surrounded by high rise unit towers. It’s an old but very clean place with only four rooms.

Only there 30 minutes and it was a call to the table for a vegetarian dinner , served quickly as it was mine hosts wife’s birthday.

Sat around chatting with some other walkers and picked up a few tips for the rest of the trip.

Still trying to work out why our photos are taking so long to load.

Got about 3 days rain predicted and hoping it does not affect flow of river we have to cross on weekend.

On another walk free day it was a sleep in and then headed down to the port for an all day boat ride including swimming stops and visits to significant historical sites.

The harbour water around boats was full of bilge, it continued the terrible manner in which tour operators treat the environment, with many beaches we have come across full of rubbish discarded from boats,

On a more positive note we boarded a beautiful old boat. Did a check of seating and chose to stay under cover.  In the process managed taking a photo of Jane and in her Titanic moment on the front prow.

Soon joined by a boatload of young people who immediately took to the upper decks and sun lounges.

Captain stood behind a wheel resembling that on the HS Minnow and he immediately had problems seeing ahead because of all of the scantily clad women in front of his window- took him a long while to shoo them away and obviously let experience navigate the way.

Not long before we pulled up in a sheltered cove and swam in crystal clear water where sinking seemed impossible. We were surrounded by an armada of boats with people enjoying likewise.

Met a nice couple from Oregon and got a bit of a laugh watching all of the bikini queens donning all sorts of flotation devices . Either because they were poor swimmers or didn’t want to get hair wet.

Pulled anchor after 30 mins and chugged off to another cove,  this time with sunken ruins you could actually float over and just as many on land including the remains of an old church. Photographs did not do them justice.

It was not only the bikini girls needing flotation aid’s, couple of Muslim boys and girls had  very interesting outfit to stay above water. Again water was blue, clear and refreshing. 

Next it was off to the most famous sunken and cliffside ruins in Kekova, which were the result of an earthquake.

It was fascinating viewing along an area about 500 metres long and heading about 75 metres up the cliff. 

They were again sites you had to see in person to get the proper perspective. 

headed over to and actually went inspect de what the guide termed a Pirate Cave. It was enormous and as we left s couple of sea kayakers and a small yacht tender went in further than us to explore.

Moved onto another spot which was not far from where we had walked yesterday and it was a very different perspective looking shoreward.

Water seemed to be clearer and bluer,if possible, and we swam for another 30 odd minutes before a great lunch.

The next swimming spot had a few less ruins, but it’s claim to fame was the healing powers of the mud. Having experienced dermabrasion and salt treatment on the walk, who could turn up the opportunity for a muddy. 

One of us could not and I did a bit of a plunge into much cooler water to scoop up the mud and applied liberally to all reachable parts of the body, whilst Jane captured it on film.

Can’t say I felt any different after letting it dry and then washing off- I am hoping for longer term benefits when my skin will be absolutely glowing and hair regeneration commences.

Not long before we were off and having a swim in the bluest water, before  boarding and heading to Kalrkoy where there is a great castle ruin, plus tombs on land and in the water. It is also home to tne best ice cream in Turkey.

Being foodies rather than historians we made our way up huge staircases to the cafe and tried the ice cream made on goats milk. It was really nice, nearly went back for seconds. With castle another 200 steps up, we worked our way through a maze of streets in which market stalls, cafes and restaurants abounded, to reach the tomb situated in the water. Luckily the tide was low and we got up close and personal.

Back to a local bar for the most expensive drink on tour, then back on board our boat. Whilst waiting for the rest of customers I noticed  three women on the end of piers, doing some synchronised movements. I thought it was a trendy yoga lesson but turned out to be their attempt to lure boats to stop at their pier and attached restaurant. It was interesting to read on their signs that water only 30 metres from shore was 50 feet.

Headed to our last stop off and only I jumped off for a swim.

Back to port after a really relaxing and enjoyable day, before desalinating and heading for a drink on the waterside and back to B and B for dinner. 

Sat around with a couple from Seattle trying to help plan their proposed hiking itinerary for tomorrow. Think they are as naive as we were about how difficult the track is. 

Another early night at the Danjane Retirement Home  and we were serenaded by the Turkish music until a pillow over the head softened the noise.

Tomorrow is a relatively short walk, with a cake shop our nominated pick up point – might end up calorie loading at wrong end of the day. 

We saw the Contiki  crew off and had a sensible sized breakfast before heading off on a day likely to make 27.

After seeing an old guy in the bar last night with blood from head to toe from a fall I was going to be a little more circumspect with my foot placement today.

Had the usual Mosque call but must say never seen anyone going to one or people observing prayer publicly.

Greeted  by 3 cats on a motor cycle and tailed the day with a pack of dogs greeting us when we crossed the unique wooden bridge at the end of the walk.  Add to that the birds fleeing from the hunters and the goats getting milked in the middle of nowhere you might say it was a an animal centric day.

Walked on a paved road which allowed us to take in the sights early, with great views over the harbour and out to sea.

Amazing to see the paved roads going for kilometres in different colours and patterns- must have been a tedious laying job.

Plenty of traffic  along the road, as well as wild campers finding nooks with million dollar views. Struck and older couple in a sedan all set up on the side of the road having breakfast. I would swear blind it was the same man we saw in Kas eating baked beans out of a can from the boot of his car.

It was the best start we have experienced so far with relatively  flat surfaces enabling us to take in the scenery which included beautiful mountain top castles and tombs sprinkled alongside.

Ran into a couple of Portuguese travellers who gave us the full rundown on how they were the first nation to discover Australia, only thing they didn’t ask us was if we knew a relative in Petersham.  They were impressed we had walked in  Portugal and Anna had married there as well.

Went past a very well presented  cemetery – on the map marked as a water source- seems if you want water Mosque and cemetery are the place to visit.

Bit of an Australian touch when we pulled up under a gum tree to let a 4 foot six inch  goat herder cajole her herd along the track.

Mini houses seem to be popping up everywhere with many being  used to accommodate workers on the numerous hot houses farms.

We continued to enjoy flat tracks , which helped us put up with the heat as we walked through farms with much richer looking soil, even found one with a green crop of some sort which provided a nice backdrop to another hilltop fort.

Matt Lee Electrical would certainly get a job over here and would definitely up the standard- some of the domestic and commercial installations are downright dangerous. 

Ran into a couple of young shooters with huge rifles who were hunting for pheasant, pigeon  on quail – looking at the gauge of gun not much of the quarry would be left if they did actually shoot one.

Further along also  came across a group of Americans doing a  day walk off their yachts , which we passed later along the track at a place called Smugglers Cove.

Stopped in a dry creek bed for R and R before coming across a cove full of yachts moored at a site which had been abandoned.

Unfortunately, we could not get down into the water for a swim.

Moved up onto higher level ground and came across another abandoned house with a view to die for.

Continued to run into more hikers going in both directions as  we picked our way along a worsening track which wound its way up the hill.

The rain certainly had the ants on the move, it was amazing to see what they were carrying – bit like overloaded backpackers.

Track spilt and we took the upper track which slipped past a one building school with the most amazing view.

The two trails merged again and the earlier joy of walking on flat tracks disappeared momentarily as we picked our way downhill to be rewarded with a beautiful beach and chance to swim. 

Shared beach with 3 others, including an Anthropology professor who was an Associatre at La Trobe university. Luckily  our reef shoes allowed us much easier access into the warmish water.

Added a half hour break to the swim for lunch and recovery   Then picked our way along the coastline  on very rocky tracks, often only 10 metres above the tantalising aqua coloured water..

Being that close to water and having an ever increasing thirst through exposure to the sun was frustrating.

Finally it was a steep and rocky downhill to a rickety bridge crossing a river and a track leading us onto a SANDY beach.

Despite being chased by friendly dogs it was time to take off the boots and enjoy some salt water foot therapy whilst consuming the last dregs of the days water supply.

Beach, which is famous for being a hatchery  for sea turtles had 3 other people other than  us on it. 

Left beach and  dodged another 3 dogs before walking over a strange looking bridge built in 2021 to celebrate something.

Spent time waiting for B and B operator to pick us up rehydrating with a couple of beets.

The trip back,  not only provided magnificent scenery and a chance to suss out tomorrow’s walk,  but we were treated to the most pleasant driving experience yet.

Back in town came across the group of town square men solving the problems of the world for yet another day with fag and beer in hand.l about 10 metres north of where they sat yesterday

Had a couple of thirst quenchers in a harbour side bar before farewelling a couple of very friendly guys who we often met along the way – the hares- as we affectionately named them.

Back to B and B for another cracking dinner before chatting with some Aussies who were on an organised tour.

Day off for us tomorrow and donning our tourist clothes and foung s boat cruise which hopefully has more swimming snd less walking.

9th October

Had an extremely good sleep after a mentally and physically demanding previous day and up around 8 with the bus load of 20 who arrived late in the evening.

Interesting culinary start for breakfast with fries being served – perhaps they think we are Yanks.

Then it was  into tne car for a 30 km trip at breakneck speed , almost going in circles to find the starting point about 5 Kms as the crow flies.l from where we started. After driving that fast, whilst adjusting the radio and reading text messages it was worrying when he got out and checked condition of front tyre.

Town mosque where we started had twin spires and was unusually big for such a small village, boy was it opulent.

As usual it was an uphill start but on a very smooth road and the weather had smiled on us at 25 and a light breeze. Looked like yesterdays storm had dumped a fair bit of rain as it was quite muddy underfoot.

Some sort of critter had been walking in mud and later on trail, but not sure if it was wild boar or wolf. Every time my stomach rumbled I imagined it was one of the beasts lurking in the trees and it soon had me picking up the speed.

Got to a branch in the trail where we came across our Turkish mate who walks to the beat of loud music. He like us was deciding  whether to go up and visit the hillside ruin or take the flatter rocky way forward. Mutual decision was to take the low road.

Started to see more walkers going in both directions, including our two Turkish hares.

On the flatter section there was a little bit of farming, particularly bee keeping.

Followed hares for a while but they tracked left at a junction and we went the other way after referencing the map. Proved a good decision because while having lunch later in the day they wandered in saying wrong turn cost them an hour.

Stopped for a break and saton a throne like rocks  ( Charles and Camilla style) before meeting some French walkers and having a chat.

Took off again with breeze kicking up and darkening clouds- almost immediately ran into a couple who looked dispirited and said they hoped not to get drenched like yesterday – we missed all rain yesterday.

The track was getting muddier and with boots getting caked in it progress it slowed as we moved through the trickier parts.

Came across a huge cairn and as tradition has it Jane placed a rock

on top.  I followed suit only for mine to cause a domino effect and many toppled to the ground – skulked off rather quickly.

Gunshots wer ringing out across the valley most of the morning with boar the likely quarry. That said some pigeon /pleasant like birds took flight along the trail at one stage.

Ran into an exhausted Turkish lad who was  calling it a day – apparently his uncle had died. Cynical Jane uttered ‘and dog ate his homework as well’. 

Came across a couple of farm buildings built up above the local ruins, with the only occupant a sad little donkey.

This signalled the start of the ruins and you had to tread carefully as there were several unmarked snd open wells about 25 feet deep.

The ruins were widely spread and people had actually climbed up from the beach to have a look. One girl had three thongs, two on her feet and one masquerading as her swimmers. 

Made our way down to the beach with hopes of snorkeling around the sunken ruins. What a disappointment the water was murky with sediment and you could not see a thing. 

We moved onto the lunch spot,  a restaurant on much better waters. It was a mini Gallipoli with Turkish Australian and New Zealand flags on the wall.

Had a nice lunch, including chips, probably get the Trifecta at dinner.

After looking at guidebook we promptly made the decision to abandon the rock hopping of the last 7 Kms and take a spectacular speedboat road across the bay, passing everything from runabouts to 70 foot motor launches. Chef from restaurant doubled as skipper and did not disappoint, driving boat like a car- flat out. 

The township is a port for all of the boats  which look after day trippers who take one of the myriad of boat trips to surrounding islands and points of interest, like the primary sunken city.

All boats and restaurants were charging tourist  prices but it didn’t matter they were full to the brim.

Found our B and B which is home for the next 3 days. In an historical town where construction is prohibited ours could best be described as quaint. Though again the owner is amazingly helpful. More importantly our bags were in the room.

Next few days walking are in rugged and remote areas with the owner  dropping us off and picking us up each day. 

Guidebook describes them as difficult walks in mountainous terrain- sounds like after day one might consider fitting in a day trip to the islands.

Spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around town which goes from a metropolis at 10am to a sleepy hamlet at 5pm when all of the tourists board buses and boats and return to their towns elsewhere.

Shared fish dinner for two and that was stumps for the day.

Awoke to a cracking day and after a quick breakfast it was down to the marina to catch our boat to the starting point . 

Greeted by a sea turtle as soon as we took off and then we bade farewell to Kas and drove past the rocky cliff with rope attached for balance, which we sensibly avoided.

Jumped off at a pristine beach and ran into a few walkers who said we made a good decision, as rope walk was very scary.

Bit of a rough start climbing through overgrown vegetation on a rocky path – another free dermabrasion.

Got to find out what all of the signs about cannons are along the way- maybe they were keeping the Greek intruders out.

Dark skies and thunder were building up, so hoping we can avoid the rain.

Then it was down a rocky path to a spot about 150 feet above the water and all you could see was boulders and cliff faces.

Well if I thought aqueducts were scary, hard to put a name to the next hour or so of my life. Most of the time it was climbing across the cliff face or boulders looking for handholds and footholds. There were quite a few leaps of faith- it was amazingly tough mentally and physically.

The people in the boats below must have been getting some free entertainment.

I have never been so happy to see a rocky beach when we finally made bottom. After 3.5 hours we had covered 4.4 kilometres- that shows the level of difficulty.

Had a break for a swim at the pebbly beach before chatting to a couple of 20 something Israeli’s doing the walk in sandals.

Got a bit of a reprieve on some flatter ground with the aid of a cooling breeze before a less rocky path down the cliff side to the beach. It was still steep but did not require hand or footholds in most places. The boat people who had cruised around to this second beach would not have got much entertainment.

We bypassed the pebbly beach for a swim because it was difficult to access  and headed to the shaded lunch spot. The owner sure knew he was on a good thing with the prices he charged for drinks.

Fed and watered we motored up a hill for 40 minutes on a dirt road before meeting a Kiwi guy at a Y point in the path.

Decision was whether follow the rocky trail or the steep hilly road which was a bit longer. Like a couple of pit ponies we took the flatter road and within about an hour the finishing point was in sight.

Never too hard to spot as it’s usually got a mosque – this one looked like it had a huge car park until getting closer and realising it was a swag of hothouse roofs.

Found our Arabian oasis with bungalows, apartments, day bed camping and a pool and spa. Thought it was owner who greeted us but he had no booking for us nor had luggage arrived. We checked the itinerary and it was the right place. 

Spoke to travel lady who advised it was the right place and owner was heading off to pick up luggage.  

In the meantime we had a refreshing swim and then laid about with the owner.

After a couple of beers a siesta and a bit of texting – he had still not moved. Another call to contact and she advised not to worry it was actually owner’s Dad and the luggage was being picked up. 

After an hour a luggage- Jane’s – turned up and it was now the owner trying to find mine. Mine finally arrived about  630 – just in time to shower.

Had nice dinner and headed off to land on nod before a bus load of other guests, with luggage , arrived. I apparently went to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow and Jane put up with noise till midnight.

Thunder and Lightning

With no rush to rise and no discernible CTP as an alarm we woke at a civilised time, to the sound of thunder and flashes of lightning.

Good news on knee , the Balck Knight from Monty Python would definitely call it a scratch , thanks to the wonderful doctoring by Jane.

We knocked off breakfast on the obligatory terrace with magnificent views and then headed to harbour for our day trip around the island.

Hardly a skipper in sight and those there were gathered grim faced under umbrella’s sayimg ‘ no trips today too many storms’. Not many tourists in sight either, so after hanging around for a while headed to the pebbly beach for a swim. Tried my water shoes out and despite looking like Ronald McDonald they were effective walking on the rocks, if not bloody hard to get on.

Then grabbed our first real coffee for a while in a cafe which also played some cool jazz.

Then it was off for some cliff side walks with great views back into the harbour across water almost turquoise in colour.

Managed to sneak in the picture including the Littlies protective presents in the local helipad.

There were plenty aboard the ferry to Meis which is a Greek island about a kilometre off shore- you even go through customs transmitting to and from there. Apparently it had something to do with combatting the influx of Syrian refugees.

Then back to hotel to do some detailed planning for next couple of days so we could incorporate walking, swimming and boat rides to mix up the exercise.

Then it was down to the markets for a wander around, watch a bit of the televised free diving and some street food for lunch.

The streets, many of which are made of granite with notches cut into them for traction and evil eyes for what teaser n I am unsure. Road,s leading to the markets were full of disappointed day trippers and the markets full of locals looking for bargains from the huge range of operators. If you didn’t get what you wanted you were not trying hard enough.

There is an interesting change in cars since we moved to the coast with most modern and in pristine condition. In the rural areas they were beat up old bombs over 20 years old and probably never see a service until 200, 000 Kms.

Interesting concept in Kas there does not seem any great reverence towards historical ruins, a good example is the tomb used as a prop in markets.

After markets we decided to avoid another tsunami in the infinity pool and head for one of the PAYG pools. You have to spend a minimum of $20 per head to be entitled to a free deck chair.

Can’t not join in – so we we had a ‘refreshing’ swim in water about 20 feet deep on the edge and made our contribution through a couple of drinks each. Interesting music selection here in Kas with very little doof doof and lots of Blues and Jazz in bars and restaurants.

The predicted storm came through, so we camped in the bar before heading home to get ready for a night on the town. Which means staying up till at least 900pm, which we achieved with 25 mins to spare after dinner in a agreed restaurant to pay homage to those on island of Meis.

Tomorrows walk starts with a boat ride to avoid walking along a cliffs edge with the assistance of a rope – whatever that meant.

6th October

Read The Signs

Despite being woken by a prolonged CTP from the mosque it was nice to be up early and have a chance to wish grandson Mitchell a happy 18th before he went out to celebrate.

It was also nice to know we were not walking today and just being driven to the beautiful seaside resort of Kas. It sits tucked in between the cascading mountains behind and the Mediterranean in front , which is full of islands just off the coast.

While Kalkan is home of tne Poms , Kas is a German favourite. The town is predominantly units. Hotels, restaurants, cafes and the usual tourist shops. Although we did find a little house squeezed amongst the others- orange tree and all. The tree might be symbolic of the price they will eventually squeeze out of a buyer.

It was a full car as , 5 people, plus luggage and backpacks headed off on the rollercoaster ride across the mountains down into Kas.

Arrived about 1130 and got into our room with Eco the Consierge trying his best to put us on recommended boat trip and into his favourite restaurants. We declined gracefully.

We unpacked and did a tour of the city including the beaches which in all but one case were stairs off the cliffs into roped of areas – all privately run and charged for the privilege.

To sit and eat in accompanying restaurants cost zero, so we plonked down for lunch and a little tipple.

The views either way were amazing , you could almost touch the Greek aisle of Meis

Followed lunch with a stroll along the harbour trying to see the right boat trip for tomorrow.

I was snapping away merrily and Jane pointed to the sign – absolutely no photographs or filming in this area- apparently I was outside the Customs compound where people going to and from Meis have to present passports. Thankfully I went undetected.

Wandered further along and up into the cafe and restaurant area and came across a little street lined with umbrellas. Just just around the corner was where one could sit free and get a fairy blessing

Continued through street after street filled with hotels and ended up at the famous amphitheater which was in great condition.

Then it was a wander through the commercial centre where we got a mini gelato and some tummy sweet roll.

We dropped down into the town square where a huge stage was set up and they were televising the World Free Diving Chsmpionshkps with , remarkable underwater technology- guess without that it’s just watching and hoping someone surfaces from 90 metres below.

Then it was off to get changed and head to the free pebbly public beach which was about 30 square metres and occupied by 20 odd people and a overly excitable dog. We had a nice dip in water that was strangely layered with hot and cold temperature streams. It was very refreshing and begged another visit tomorrow.

Did another run along harbour and picked the boat tour for tomorrow – weather permitting. Passed the Grndarme Compound on the way back and Jane made sure I didn’t dally to take a picture of the guard with the machine gun- this time I had read the sign.

The locals are both creative and optimistic, former was no better illustrated than in the way a cafe had converted 44 Gallon drums into tables and chairs.

In a country where there appears to be more cats and dogs than people we spotted this dign for a missing cat- good luck finding it

As is the norm here we scaled several sets of steep stairs to get back to the hotel. I decided on a swim in the infinity pool, but didn’t read the sign about diving and a less than elegant entry caused sa mini tsunami in the pool area and down towards the foyer.

It generated an SES. type response with 3 men armed with squeegees rushing out to stem the tide whilst I stood neck deep in water looking apologetic and Jane giggled as she recued her gear just in time.

Skulked out of the poo almost under the shade of darkness and then went out for a small dinner before going down and watching presentation for the diving. An Aussie won a medal and broke an Aust record.

The Ukrainian team who had enjoyed success on the day allowed us a group photo that we can send home to our lovely and patriotic Ukrainian neighbour.

Walked a few more hills, more because we had to than wanted to and headed home hoping the weather forecasters here are as inaccurate as Australia,