Lavender Fields and Salda Lake Tour from Alanya

Karacaoren Lake and the road inland

The day begins with an early start from Alanya and a long drive inland, away from the coast and up into the quieter Lakes region of southern Turkey. The scenery changes slowly from pine hills and orchards to open farmland and mountain passes. The distance is considerable, with several hours of driving in each direction, so this tour suits travellers who enjoy a full day of scenery and variety.

We stop for breakfast at Karacaoren Lake, a calm reservoir set among rolling hills far from the crowds. It is a gentle opening to the day, with still water, fresh air and a chance to stretch your legs. The light in the early morning is soft, so bring a camera and a light jacket, as the mornings inland can be cooler than on the coast.

Kuyucak lavender village in Isparta

Kuyucak is a village in Isparta province that has grown lavender for years, and its fields are among the most photographed rural scenes in Turkey. Rows of purple stretch up the hillside, and in the warm air the scent of the oil hangs over the paths. People who search for the Kuyucak lavender fields come mainly for the colour and the smell, and both are at their best in early summer.

The lavender bloom depends on the season, usually peaking in the early summer months, and outside that time the fields are greener and less purple. Our guide tells the group the stage of the bloom on the day and explains how the plant is grown and harvested. Walk slowly, stay on the paths and do not pick the flowers, as the fields are a working farm. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen.

The lavender distillery and the Isparta rose and lavender shop

Isparta is also famous for roses, and its lavender and rose oils are known well beyond Turkey. At a working distillery and essential oil factory, our guide shows how the raw plant is turned into fragrant oil by distillation, step by step. The visit is short and easy to follow, and it makes the purple fields you have just seen make sense.

Next door, a product shop sells lavender and rose oils, soaps, creams and dried bouquets grown and made in the area. There is no pressure to buy, and you can browse at your own pace and ask our guide for advice. Carry a little cash or a card, as purchases are paid by you, and remember that oils and liquids may be restricted in hand luggage on flights.

Salda Lake, the Turkish Maldives

Salda Lake lies in Burdur province and is one of the deepest lakes in Turkey. Its shores are white because of the mineral sediment, rich in magnesium, which reflects the light and turns the shallow water pale turquoise. Scientists have studied it for its unusual chemistry, and travellers know it as the Turkish Maldives. Many people ask whether Salda Lake is worth the long drive, and for the colours alone it usually is.

We spend real time here for photographs and a walk along the shore, and lunch is included in the day. You can wade or swim in the shallow water, and the fine white sand feels soft underfoot. Some parts of the lake are protected, so follow the signs and your guide about where swimming is allowed. Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sunglasses and sunscreen, as the white shore reflects strong light.

Kibyra ancient city on some departures

On some departures the programme adds a stop at Kibyra, an ancient city in the hills of Burdur Province. Kibyra was a wealthy city in the ancient world, and its ruins include a theatre, a stadium and an agora among the stones and trees. It adds a quieter, historical chapter to a day of colour and water, and our guide explains the site to the group.

This stop is not on every departure, so please check the details with our team if it matters to you. The ground is uneven and partly open, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are helpful. After the visit, the group returns to the vehicle for the long drive back to Alanya, with drop-off at your hotel in the evening.