Top things to do in Kemer

Fancy something a little different? Then head outside Kemer and board the Olympos Teleferik Cable Car for a spectacular ride to the summit of the 2,364m high Mount Olympus. Step inside one of the two large, bright red cabins and join up to 80 others for the 10-minute ride to the top. As the ride begins, you will be treated to panoramic views of Kemer town followed by vistas of undulating, forested hills as you gradually climb higher; if you are visiting during the colder months, the beauty is enhanced with snow-covered peaks and valleys. Special rides are available including romantic sunset trips with dinner and live music included or, our favourite, watching the sun appear above the mountains whilst enjoying a warm pastry and hot drink.

For something completely different, Mount Chimaera is hard to beat. Named after a mythical beast that was able to launch fire from its mouth, this rocky, mountainous region features flames leaping from rock crevices and the soft, soot covered soil. To reach this natural phenomenon you have to travel about 45 minutes south of Kemer, (there are many excursions available), and then walk for about 1 km on well-defined trails, but believe us, your efforts will be well rewarded. Caused by methane trapped in the ground, flames randomly burst into life as the gas becomes exposed to the air. Approximately 5 km of trails wind through this wonderful and unusual landscape providing an unforgettable experience. We recommend that you try to visit as darkness descends to enjoy this spectacle at its most dramatic.

If you want a chance from sunshine and sea, then head just outside Kemer to one of the best waterparks in Turkey, DoluSu. Themed around Turkish fairytale heroes this adrenaline-filled park hosts 26 different slides as well as other aquatic-based activities. Those seeking a thrill will only have to look at the names to get an idea of what’s in store: Kamikaze, Bullet, Rocket or Boomerango all hint at steep, fast experiences. 

If you prefer a less adventurous experience, don't despair. A gentle 75m river slide provides views of the park and neighbouring sea and the Aquatorium holds regular mermaid shows complete with spectacular lighting and music. An aquarium is also on site where you can see sharks, stingrays and a variety of tropical fish, while the Dolphinarium puts on thrilling shows starring everyone’s favourite marine mammals.

When you feel like some time out from the crowds and frantic energy of the resort areas around Kemer, then take a short hike or bus ride to the Folkloric Yoruk Park Open Air Museum. Yoruk means nomad in the local dialect and this fascinating mixture of park and museum is more commonly known as Folkloric Nomad Park. This open-air museum celebrates the life and traditions of the indigenous people of the Kemer region, using exhibits and tented displays to show the history and culture in an engaging and entertaining way. Traditional music and dance displays are performed alongside demonstrations of the arts and crafts that sustained the nomadic lifestyle. While there you should make time to enjoy some Yoruk cuisine, particularly our favourite, Gozleme, a stuffed flatbread delight.

Republic Square is at the heart of Kemer, at the intersection of two major thoroughfares, Ataturk Boulevard and Hukumet Street. This clean sculpted space provides a real sense of this popular resort beyond the glitzy hotels, shops and restaurants. The square is dominated by a magnificent white clock tower, often used as the recognisable symbol of the resort, and also a monument celebrating the first president of Turkey, Kemal Ataturk. Pretty fountains complement the Ataturk statue and provide a refreshing distraction for the young ones. Landscaped gardens complete the picture while the stunning backdrop of Olympos Mountain frames the scene.