The Goynuk Canyon in Kemer occupies a special place among the impressive natural wonders of Turkey. It beckons tourists from all corners of the world with its unique beauty. Its impressive sheer cliffs, vibrant colors, chaotically scattered boulders, crystal clear water, numerous waterfalls, and emerald greenery of the surrounding nature leave an indelible impression on visitors.
This captivating natural feature is part of the Goynuk National Park, where numerous pomegranate and citrus trees grow, as well as cypress and coniferous forests. Translated, Goynuk means “fertile valley.”
Discovering this unique place on the outskirts of Kemer in guidebooks, I decided to visit it without hesitation. I allocated a whole day for it, took some food with me, wore comfortable shoes, and set off.
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The road to Goynuk Canyon from Kemer.
I must say that the road turned out to be not the easiest, whether it was the heat at 40 degrees Celsius, or my psychological unpreparedness: I didn’t even realize that I would have to walk only one way for six hours (I had to walk from the hotel when in organized groups you are taken by bus directly to the place).
I often felt like giving up and turning back. But my desire to be the first everywhere, to finish what I started, was stronger than my laziness. And then, after overcoming the most difficult stretch of the journey, I realized that it was all worth it!
Before me lay the most beautiful natural gorge with the purest blue water.
And yet, the journey itself turned out to be more interesting than the destination. My path was long and thorny. On the way to the canyon, I encountered villages with picturesque houses and streets. Along winding, crooked, mountain roads, I met goats; fields with blooming red poppies; murmuring mountain streams and waterfalls; an old man who gave me orange juice. These moments are what life is all about!
If you are looking for more whimsical, picturesque locations, then visit these wonderful ancient cities – Demre, Myra, Kekova, and Simena.
Traveling through Canyon.
After passing through the villages, you eventually reach the reserve, where for a small fee, you can enter the territory. Here you can also rent wetsuits. The water there is icy, and without special equipment, it is impossible to manage. Most of the way is taken by a fairly comfortable but mountainous road, after which the entrance to the rocky gorge begins.
And here is the first wonder – magnificent, cool, blue water. The beginning of the canyon starts with shallow water, and then you can see a blue lake where you can swim. Just what you need on such a wonderful, hot day.
The river flows swiftly, breaking through huge boulders covered with marsh moss. As soon as the narrow path, hanging over green gardens, ends, there is a table, benches, and swings. Right there begins the entrance to the very gorge where all tourists strive to get.
At first, the road to it seems quite ordinary, but as you move forward, it makes you realize that you have entered a fairy tale. For hundreds of thousands, perhaps even millions of years, this hidden gorge was patiently created on the plateau. Nature endowed this place with wild beauty, where the mountain river freely penetrates.
The canyon area is rich in wonderful flora. Pine and cypress trees strive upwards, olive trees and junipers grow nearby, wildflowers cover the steep slopes like a carpet. Some trees love this place so much that they seem willing to grow even on bare slopes, clinging to them with their withered, snake-like roots. The walls of the mountains are covered with colorful vines, and at the very bottom, the river flows, sometimes reaching a depth of 6 meters.
Here is the final stage before entering the gorge. The water here spreads wider, and everything around becomes even more mesmerizing.
It seems even more mysterious and magical when the sun’s rays penetrate seemingly inaccessible corners. Play of light and shadow on the rocks and in the water.
Here is what seems to be a giant stone, stuck between the gigantic walls of the grotto. These mighty rocks, which have ensnared it, prevent it from falling. Since then, the stone has nothing left but to pose for photographers, endowing them with beautiful shots.
The walls of the canyon impress with their colors – from white to black, striped, curved, where they converge and diverge again.
Powerful streams of the waterfall hit the bottom, raising sparkling splashes. This road is full of surprises and unforgettable emotions.
The unrevealed mystery of the gorge beckons deeper into the reigning coolness. Silence! Only the breath of the walls is heard, occasionally interrupted by the unpretentious chirping and sharp, frightening flap of the wing of a wild bird. Who knows, maybe the Mistress of the Copper Mountain lives here, as in Bazhov’s tale. But there is no copper here. Only chalk, marl, and coral limestone.
Here, the breath catches in awe when the rock closes its arches overhead. Here, you squint from the sun’s glare, playing in the streams of sparkling waterfalls. Here, you climb over boulders resembling monsters. And it’s hard to believe that just a couple of kilometers separate this magical canyon from civilization.
How to get to the Goynuk Canyon in Kemer. Useful recommendations.
Goynuk Canyon is located in the southern part of Turkey, 45 km from Antalya International Airport. You can get here by bus from Kemer (7 km), Beldibi (8 km), and Antalya (45 km).
I highly recommend traveling by car as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Antalya if you are planning a trip from another country.
Address: Beldibi Mahallesi, Çomaklar Mevkii, No:73 Goynuk Kanyonu, 07982 Kemer/Antalya.
Entrance to the territory is paid — 60 lira per person or about $2.5. A walk through the canyon on an inflatable boat costs 400 lira or $15. For those who enjoy more extreme adventures, there is a zipline for $18. It is located 40 meters above the ground. If you haven’t tried it, it’s a great way to unwind, allowing you to release built-up emotions and step out of your comfort zone. There is also a comprehensive option available, including body rafting and ziplining, which costs $33.
Equipment rental (rubber boots, sturdy helmet, and wetsuit) will cost $15. The water in the canyon is cold, 13 degrees Celsius, and the bottom is rocky.
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, and water with you – the road is tough, and the sun is scorching. It takes about one and a half hours to walk from Goynuk to the canyon.
Unveiling the Gem of Goynuk Canyon: Luxurious Hotels in Kemer.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Goynuk Canyon in Kemer, Turkey, lies a haven of luxury and serenity. For travelers seeking an unparalleled retreat surrounded by nature’s splendor, the hotels near Goynuk Canyon offer an enchanting blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure.
Rixos Sungate: Situated on the azure shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Rixos Sungate is a sprawling resort that epitomizes luxury. Boasting panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains and lush greenery, this five-star hotel offers a plethora of amenities, including private beaches, gourmet dining options, and a world-class spa. Adventure seekers can indulge in a myriad of water sports or explore the nearby Goynuk Canyon through guided tours arranged by the hotel.
Paloma Foresta Resort & Spa: Tucked away amidst pine forests and cascading waterfalls, Paloma Foresta Resort & Spa is a sanctuary of tranquility. With its opulent rooms, delectable cuisine, and rejuvenating spa treatments, this hotel promises a truly indulgent experience. Guests can embark on guided hikes to Goynuk Canyon, where they can marvel at the canyon’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
Queen’s Park Goynuk: Boasting a prime location near Goynuk Canyon, Queen’s Park Goynuk offers a blend of luxury and adventure. From elegantly appointed rooms to world-class dining options, this hotel caters to discerning travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Guests can partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and canyoning in Goynuk Canyon, followed by a soothing massage at the hotel’s spa.
Crystal Flora Beach Resort: Surrounded by lush gardens and crystal-clear waters, Crystal Flora Beach Resort is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its array of amenities, including swimming pools, water slides, and a wellness center, this hotel ensures a memorable stay for guests of all ages. Adventure-seekers can embark on guided excursions to Goynuk Canyon, where they can explore its hidden caves, waterfalls, and natural pools.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these hotels promise an unforgettable escape amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Goynuk Canyon in Kemer.
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