Honeymoon Destination: The Turquoise Coast

There’s a reason Turkey’s Mediterranean coast is nicknamed the Turquoise Coast. Well, there are a couple, actually. But predominant among them is that the waters are strikingly blue and clear — thus, turquoise (and yes, this is where we get the name for the gem, from the French adjective for Turkish).

But besides its pristine waters, the Turquoise Coast has beaches, incredible foods and friendly locals, two of the seven ancient Wonders of the World and every level of comfort you could imagine. And it’s so incredibly gorgeous Mark Antony is said to have given it to Cleopatra as a wedding gift. How’s that for romance?

Antalya Harbor, Turkey © Amoklv | Dreamstime

There are several great options for honeymooners on the Turkish Riviera. The most unique, as perhaps your best option, is to charter a small sailing boat called a gulet. There are endless companies and options for your private cruise, and most will let you choose your destinations and shore excursions. You can stop in the resort town of Bodrum, playground of the rich and beautiful. You could step ashore to visit any number of ancient ruins: the Lycian way, the eternal flames of Olympos (where the myth of the fire-breathing chimaera was born and traditional starting point for the Olympic torch), Antalya, Fethiye … the options are endless.

If cruising isn’t your thing, honeymooners will find plenty of overland options as well. The Amanruya Hotel in Bodrum is a honeymooner’s paradise. More adventurous travelers might want to try Olympos’ famous treehouses.

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast promises an unforgettable honeymoon. And one that won’t break the bank: CNN Money recommends the Turquoise Coast as a cost-efficient honeymoon.