The Best Way To Spend Seven Days On The Turkish Riviera

There's little doubt that many a traveler has spent plenty of time spinning a globe and stopping it on random spots, dreaming of the day they'll be able to visit... Kyrgyzstan. But for as much as we've asked when, the question for the positive and optimistic souls should be where. As in, where will we go to cross another dream destination off our lists?

One idea is the Turkish Coast, AKA the Turkish Riviera, which blesses visitors with more than 1,000 km of shoreline along the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. It is a destination that offers something significant for travelers of all ages and backgrounds, as hopeless romantics will find unspeakable natural beauty in the views both of and from the shores, while history and culture buffs can wear their Indiana Jones fedoras, figuratively or literally.

As more and more people focus on destinations of historical significance as well as convenience, this is a place that could (and should) rise in popularity. Arguably the best way to see the Turkish Coast is by private yacht charter, or "gulet," as it enhances the luxury and intimacy of the experience. The Turkish charter company Zephyria Yachting operates a fleet that is idyllic for everyone from honeymooning couples to small groups and families making up for lost time.

This is a sampling of what a 7-day journey on one of the company's gulets would include for first time visitors.

Boasting beautiful views, stunning beaches, ancient landmarks and downright charming neighborhoods and people, Bodrum is no hidden gem or well-kept secret, as millions of tourists annually visit this city once known as Halicarnassus. It is a particularly popular destination for cruise liners, but a gulet has the advantage of docking in one of the nearby natural bays.

From there, visitors can shop, dine at the excellent restaurants and explore Bodrum Castle, which was built in the 15th century using stone and marble from the Tomb of Mausolus (or Mausoleum at Halicarnassus), which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

With history dating back to 3,000 B.C., Knidos is more than just a beautiful spot to stop for a picnic. Visitors could spend hours exploring the ancient ruins before even considering a snorkeling excursion in the harbor. Cap the day off in this former Dorian capital by enjoying the sunset—a must for any stop on the Turkish Coast, to be fair—before dining aboard the gulet in Mersincik Bay, a favorite area for yachts.

Next, the gulet heads to Yediadalar, more commonly known as Seven Islands, where there are no crowds, only nature. Drop anchor and enjoy breakfast in one of the picturesque bays before spending hours swimming and snorkeling or simply relaxing on the shores.

Kufre is a can't-miss island in this group, as the forest path begs travelers to explore, making their way past the cottages that are tucked away and almost hidden beneath the trees.

Total calm awaits in Tuzla, a fisherman's village renowned for its fresh and unique seafood dishes, so don't fill up on breakfast. What makes this area even more special is the shallow waters that invite a wide variety of birds and wildlife, which won't be found anywhere else.

The evening will be spent in Longoz (Kargili) Bay, an extremely popular destination in the summer, as the shores are lined with massive pine trees, making it a truly calm and peaceful experience.

It's a tale as old as time. Man meets woman, man falls in love with woman, woman loves beach, man imports boatloads of Egyptian sand to make beach absolutely perfect for woman. That's the short, admittedly less romantic version of how Sedir Island came to be known as Cleopatra's Island.

As legend has it, Cleopatra and Mark Anthony snuck off to Cedreae for romance, but when she pointed out that there was no sand, her lover sent his fleet to Egypt to bring back enough that it remains to this day, making this truly one of the most romantic beaches in the world. But there's far more history on the land here, so try not to spend too much time following in Cleopatra's footsteps.

The action picks back up in Cokertme, where visitors can paddle board before grabbing some fresh fish at one of the restaurants lining the beach. Head into the village and admire the efforts and talents of the families weaving carpets and rugs by hand.

Still feeling the urge to explore? The yacht next travels to Kissebuku, home of the ruins of a Greek church. The bay is also excellent for swimming and snorkeling, so everyone will be pleased.

Not far from Bodrum, Orak Island is the last stop on the trip, and while the beach is undoubtedly beautiful, this is a premium spot for snorkeling and diving. In fact, it's widely regarded as one of the best diving locations in Turkey, as the vertical reef wall serves as a perfect home for a vast array of marine life.

Finally, the trip concludes with an evening spent in Bodrum harbor, which is great for last-minute shopping or simply reflecting on this once in a lifetime voyage and thinking about when it will be time to return.