General Information
Cesme: the sunshine of the Aegean Sea, an ancient southern town that has preserved its natural beauty as on its first day.
Named originally Cyssus in the ancient time, the name of the location was eventually changed to Çeşme due to the cold and delicious water resources in the region. Building fountains at the onset of springs became a tradition within time and made Çeşme a site of attraction for its fountains.
Cesme, the site of ancient Erythrai (Ildırı) established by the Cretans as one of the cities of the Pan-Ionian League, is one of the most visited places of the Aegean region today.
The town has been under the rule of the Lydian, Persian, Pergamon, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires throughout the centuries. Today, the town impresses its visitors with its magnificent cultural mosaic.
The peninsula extending into the Aegean Sea, offers a spectacular view of the sea and the mountains rising behind of it. Hot and dry during the summer while mild and rainy during the winter, Çeşme will introduce you to a typical Mediterranean climate.
Cesme promising an unforgettable vacation under the sun, will impress visitors with its multicultural heritage, unique beaches and coasts, variety of water sports, and delicious Aegean cuisine.
Attractions
Surrounded by the stunning Aegean sea and all the colors of nature, Çeşme will impress its visitors also with its cultural heritage.
The first thing that visitors will encounter upon arrival in Cesme is the Cesme Castle that was built during the Ottoman period and is used as a museum today. Located on the harbor, the castle was built to protect trade and war ships against possible attacks. The castle has been turned into the Cesme Museum of Archaeology and exhibits the unearthed artifacts of Erythrai, Alacati and Kalemburnu regions.
The Caravanserai, another example of Ottoman architecture, is a two-storey building that was especially designed to lodge foreign traders. The caravanserai operates as a 45-room hotel today including shopping and entertainment facilities.
The fountains on site which gave the town its name are among the most beautiful examples of classical Ottoman architecture. Scattered throughout the town, these centuries old fountains will provide you with cool water.
Cesme which is blessed with thermal water resources offers opportunities for relaxation during your holiday with a variety of thermal springs in Ilica, Yildizburnu and Şifne. It is possible to find accommodation near to these thermal springs which are the solution to many ailments.
İldirli, once known as Erythrai, is another must-see place particularly for its ancient city. Since the settlement of the region in the Early Bronze Age the site has continued to flourish culturally and accumulated a lot of historical artifacts reaching the present day.
Another destination located near to Ceşme is Alacati. Wellknown for its winds suitable for surfing, its narrow streets, white houses and sweet scents of flowers, Alaçatı attracts also attention for its options of entertainment. Indeed, Alacati is one of the most convenient windy coasts of the world providing a perfect atmosphere for water sports such as windsurfing. The coastal town, which is also famous for its historic stone houses as well as modern venues, promises a unique holiday to its visitors.
Do not miss the diving opportunities offered in this unique resort situated by the Aegean Sea. The underwater of the region is amazingly diverse and there are many diving centers on site. Esek Adasi (Donkey Island) is one of the spots that is not windy and therefore suitable for diving. The place can be visited any time of the year.
The unique dishes of Çeşme will delight your taste buds. Visitors should definitely visit Dalyan famous for its fish restaurants to taste a variety of seafood dishes and appetizers. Besides, guests should not leave Çeşme without tasting Kumru (a special type of sandwich made on grill) combining many flavors and Çeşme’s unique jam made of gum obtained from gum trees.
The deep blue sea alongside the 29 kilometer long coastline of Alaçatı and shining sun will always provide for fun. Travellers to Alaçatı may already start to enjoy their vacation!
Events
Cesme which has a magnificent texture combining history and modern culture attracts visitors also for its festivals and events.
The International Cesme Music Festival held at the end of June every year welcomes various musical groups from many countries providing the audience with musical entertainment.
Additionally, the Cesme Marina Wine Festival, where you can taste valuable wines by various wine producers and enjoy a series of concerts is scheduled for end of August on the event calendar every year.
Alacati Herb Festival organized in April with the arrival of spring, is popular among visitors who want to taste the freshest herbs and the dishes made from them and enjoy the festive environment of the festival.
Cesme’s doors are open to all who want to enjoy their holiday in nature with the addition of entertaining activities.
How can I get there
Izmir, one of the cities of the Aegean region with the most developed transportation network, continues to develop the shortest routes to Cesme.
The most practical way to get to Çeşme is to arrive at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport which receives direct flights from many destinations of the world or connecting flights from Istanbul. The shuttle services stationed outside of the port will take you to your destination in a short time.
You can get to Çeşme also via highway by taking one of the buses to Çeşme from any major city in Turkey. Some buses arrive directly in Çeşme while others arrive at İzmir bus terminal where you can take the shuttle to Çeşme.
Travelers who want to spend a memorable holiday in Cesme, located at the farthest point of İzmir, should book their holiday right now!
Source: http://goturkey.com/
