Turkey may be seen as a traditional summer hotspot, but when spring is in the air there’s still plenty on offer. The destination offers good value for money in July and August, but there are even better deals to be had in the shoulder season.
The Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have a gentle climate with mild springs, and all the major tourist destinations offer year-round facilities. It’s a perfect time for a break for families with young children or mature clients who want to avoid summer heat.
Goldtrail Holidays sales and marketing manager Joe Lavers said: “The larger resorts are totally different in the early season. There are still plenty of restaurants and bars open, but there are no crowds and prices are often cheaper.”
Clients can also expect pleasant spring weather with average temperatures of 21C in Bodrum.
If you need any inspiration check out the suggestions below. All prices shown are for spring 2008.
Sailing
With more than 5,000 miles of coastline, one of the best ways to enjoy Turkey is from the decks of a gulet, a traditional Turkish boat. Several operators feature gulet cruises, which offer excellent value for money with all meals included.
The gulets are custom built for cruising and temperate spring weather means there’s no danger of timbers, or anything else, shivering. With plenty of time for sunbathing and snorkelling, a typical itinerary will take in stops at secluded beaches and bays, authentic villages, archaeological ruins, historic sites and tiny offshore islands.
Sample product:Olympic Holidays offers seven-night full-board gulet cruises from Kemer (Antalya), Marmaris and Bodrum from £475 per person twin-share including transfers. Flights not included.
Golf
Spring is the ideal time to enjoy an active break and Turkey has a range of golf courses to suit all abilities.
Klassis Golf and Country Club in Silivri, 43 miles from Istanbul, has an 18-hole and a nine-hole course. There are several courses in the pine-clad Belek area in the Antalya region, including Nobilis, designed by former top UK pro Dave Thomas; a firm favourite among visiting golfers.
Sample product: Cosmos offers seven nights’ all-inclusive at the five-star Papillon Zeugma in Belek from £699 per person, including flights and transfers. The hotel is near several golf courses.
Cycling
Cycling holidays are gaining popularity in Turkey. Inland there are spectacular trails through mountain valleys, canyons and small villages. One-day expeditions, bookable in resort, include transport to the starting point followed by a downhill descent with fantastic views of the coast.
For those who want a more gentle ride, cycling in Turkey can be enjoyed in most of the resorts, with bike and helmet hire from around £10 a day. There are cycle trails along promenades and parks and in many of the big cities such as Istanbul.
Sample product: Kosmar offers seven nights’ bed and breakfast at Hotel Karbel in Olu Deniz from £319 per person, including flights.
