Wide beaches of Kilyos (left) at European side of Black Sea at 25th km. outside Istanbul, are attracting Istanbul residents during summer months. Belgrade Forest, inside from Black Sea, at European Side is the widest forest around Istanbul. Istanbul residents, at week ends, come here for family picnic with brazier at its shadows.
Sedir Island (right), in the Gulf of Gokova Marmaris, is the ancient Cedrai. Its old city
walls, theater and temples can be visited by driving from Marmaris north to Gelibolu Bay and
then crossing by boat. This voyage also offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the mountain
scenery across the bay. At the head of the gulf is the village of Gokova whose houses seem to
cascade down the mountainside. Restaurants built over bubbling, fresh water streams that fall
from the highlands create an unforgettable setting. The towering pines and cooling breezes of
Gokova Park are often a welcome respite from the hot sun. Sedir Island, popularly known as
Cleopatra’s Island, is the site of ancient Cedreae. This island boasts an incredible beach with
fine sand composed of fossils and a magnificent view of the Kiran Mountains across the bay. It
is one of the most enjoyable sites to visit, the ruins of Cedreae whilst of a modest size are
overrun with shrubbery and olive trees set in the gentle protected waters and offering a
selection of breathtaking views.
About 9 miles east of Bodrum is Orak Island (LEFT), an islet of bare rock and thorny shrubs that
seem to float in the clear morning light. Cokertme is another wonderful place to stop, a
charming fishing hamlet, perfect for a fish lunch and famous for its hand-made carpets. Orak
island is 5 nautical miles east of Kara island. There are two coves in the east and north coasts,
the former offering a well sheltered anchorage against the northerly and westerly winds. The
island is rocky and covered with thorn bushes. Motorboats bring day trippers here. East Cove:
Approach from the north through the narrow passage between the island and the reef off the east
of the bay, which is surrounded by white rocks. The bottom is stoney sand. The best anchorage
is in the west-northwest extremity. Anchor at 4-5 metres and moor to the shore with a line.
Beware of the rocks off the southeast headland. North Cove: The north and west of the island are
clean and the entrance to the north cove presents no hazards. There is a shingle beach at the
southern tip of the cove, behind which is a small hut. Anchor at 10 metres in the weedy bed and
moor to the shore in a southwest or southeast direction. Keep well away from the submerged
rocks off the west shore of the cove.
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