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The Bozburun Peninsula sits between the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas in southwest Turkey. It’s home to numerous coves and a few small towns and villages.
My Experience on the Bozburun Peninsula
Turkish friends told me the best way to see the Bozburun Peninsula is by boat because the best features of the Bozburun Peninsula are the hidden coves for swimming. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time or luxury of hiring a boat for the day. Instead, we took a scenic drive through part of the peninsula on our way from the Datça Peninsula to Marmaris and made two stops. In addition to seeing it by boat, I’d love to return someday to visit more of the villages and explore the ancient city of Amos. For the time being, consider this post incomplete until I have another chance to visit and add more information.
Bayır
Our first stop of the day was at the friendly village of Bayır, which was founded atop the ancient city of Syrna. This tiny settlement features a charming square shaded by a giant plane tree. Tables and chairs are scattered throughout, making it a great place to stop and have a glass of tea.
The tree itself dates back to 1880 and is a symbol of the village. It’s 35 meters tall and its branches cover an area of 706 square meters.
Also on the square is the village mosque. It was locked during the time of our visit and we weren’t able to go inside.
On the main road through town and surrounding the square, you’ll find a couple cafés as well as gift shops selling local honey and other products.
Çınaraltı Cafe
We sat down and ordered tea and ice cream at Çınaraltı Cafe on the square. They also have a decent menu if you’re looking for a full meal. I had a gözleme, which was a little greasy but hit the spot.
Marmaris Honey House
The Marmaris Honey House (Marmaris Bal Evi) is a short drive north of Bayır. It’s a great place to learn about the region’s beekeeping tradition and production of pine honey. Turkey is one of the top 5 countries in the world in honey production and produces 92% of the world’s pine honey. Admission is free (as of June 2024) and there’s also a café onsite.
Exhibits at the Marmaris Honey House
The Marmaris Honey House opened in 2012 and was built in the shape of a honeycomb. It features exhibits on beekeeping and honey production, starting with a short film about the benefits of honey. Information is presented in both Turkish and English.
After two indoor galleries, the exhibits move outside to cover how honey is produced. First are traditional beehives used in Anatolia. They’re made of different materials and have been around since ancient times. Some of them are still used today in certain regions.
Next is a modern beekeeper’s shack filled with equipment used for honey production. There’s also a beehive behind a pane of glass.
Two apitherapy houses give examples of how bee products are used in healing and disease prevention. Apitherapy includes the use of honey, pollen, propolis, royal jelly, and more.
Continuing through the exhibit are examples of modern beehives used in different regions of Turkey as well as modern beekeeping equipment. This includes tools for hive care, honeycomb transport, and centrifuges.
Back inside, you’ll pass by the laboratory where honey is produced and exit through the gift shop. There are plenty of different types of locally-produced honeys for sale as well as several bee products.
