Whether you are searching for adventure, rich culture, history or simply something different, then look no further than the idyllic sun drenched town of Kas on the beautiful Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Surrounded on three sides by the Taurus Mountains, Kas enchants its visitors with its natural beauty, breathtaking views and historical charm whilst retaining many of its traditions. In ancient times, the area now named Kas was an important part of Southern Lycia known as Antiphellos. It was a small settlement acting as the harbour to the city of Phellos. Over the course of time, Antiphellos grew in size and importance developing into a prosperous port making it a highly desirable target for anyone wishing to conquer it.

Today, the most important historical remains of the ancient city are the tombs carved into the rocks towards the north and the sarcophagi that may be found scattered all around the town. The most impressive of these sarcophagi is located on the street named Uzuncarsi and is known as the King’s Tomb or Kral Mezari. It is carved from one block and bears a Lycian inscription which to date remains untranslated.

Another great landmark is the amphitheatre approximately 500m  to the west of the port. This theatre dating from the 1^st century BC seated around 4000 people on 26 levels and is well preserved. A particular point of interest is, that it is the only Anatolian amphitheatre to face the sea.

To the north of the amphitheatre, also wonderfully preserved is the rock-cut tomb of a household grave in Doric style hence  known as the Doric Tomb. Measuring 3.5m high, the single room houses a stone bench where the deceased was laid with carvings of twenty-four girls holding hands, dancing inside the grave.

For those prepared to venture a few kilometres further by land or sea, a wealth of natural beauty awaits: in the fresh cold water mountain pastures of Gombe with its lakes, waterfalls and apple orchards, the caves of Kalkan and the natural wonder of  Saklikent or Hidden City, reached by crossing a 100m wooden bridge over a canyon. Water cascades over the boulders create spectacular views for hikers and sightseers alike.

Some 36km from Kas, in the region of Kekova, is ancient Theimissa, popular for its natural harbour making it the ideal point from which to access Simena and Kekova Island. Simena is situated on a peninsula and is a blend of ancient and modern. An underwater sarcophagus has become one of the town’s most notable attractions along with the ruins of the Middle Age castle the interior of which houses seven rows of seats forming a three hundred-seater theatre carved from the rock face. A short boat trip away is Kekova Island . Stairs lead from the shore, down to the Sunken City, which is clearly visible under the sparkling turquoise water. Designated a protected national park, diving is no longer permitted around the city although the general clarity of the waters in the area make conditions ideal for underwater exploration.