The Independent - March 26, 2005
The Complete Guide To: Mediterranean hideaways
Harriet O'Brien finds peace and solitude in the most unlikely of places
HIDDEN HAVENS ON THE MED? YOU MUST BE JOKING
Given that the Mediterranean coast runs in a loop along the edge of southern Europe, the western seaboard of the Middle East and the northern shores of Africa, there's a fair bit in which to hide yourself away. Of course, some parts are more convenient and desirable than others. But even at the height of summer there are still many semi-secret places in the most popular tourist destinations where you can enjoy a satisfying degree of seclusion. The trick is to find a villa or peaceful hotel with enough private land to keep the rest of the world at bay.....................................
A BIT OF TURKISH DELIGHT?
For a relaxing holiday with a twist of adventure, take to the water. From a boat you can reach many stunning parts of Turkey's Mediterranean coast that are almost inaccessible to land travellers.
And for added atmosphere, make that boat a Turkish gulet. Although traditionally fishing vessels, these twin-masted ketches are today built for comfort and are chartered out complete with crew and luxury amenities such as air conditioning, CD players and internet links.
Exclusive Escapes offers a new gulet this year: from April the deluxe Aleyna will sail between Gocek and the harbour village of Kalkan. The route takes in the sunken city of Kekova, where you can snorkel over the outlines of 4th- and 5th-century buildings, the canyon gorge of Butterfly Valley and the 18km-long stretch of white sand at Patara beach.
With just four master cabins, Aleyna can accommodate eight to 10 guests - rather fewer than the average gulet - and is therefore ideal for private charters, for which individual itineraries can be arranged.
Private charters for a week cost from £2,100 per person based on two people taking the entire boat (for, say, the ultimate honeymoon), or from £825 per person based on eight people sharing. Prices include flights from London or Manchester to Dalaman, transfers and seven nights' full-board accommodation.
In addition to cruises, Exclusive Escapes offers stunning and secluded Turkish coastal properties to rent as well as a select choice of boutique hotels.