Overview
What's included?
- Flights: return flights from London Gatwick (outbound to Izmir, inbound from Antalya)
- Transfers: All airport, accommodation and activity transfers are included
- Accommodation: 2 nights Vinifera Hotel Selcuk, 1 night Hotel Caria Nish Dalyan, 2 nights Hideaway Hotel Kas, 2 nights Atelya Art Hotel Antalya
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners (please see Agenda for further details)
- The following are included in the holiday price: Visit to Efes (Ephesus), the vineyards and olive groves of Kırazköy, Temple of Apollo at Didyma, visit to GaraGöz brewery, Fethiye fish market, visit to a Sesame Mill, Mantar Evi mushroom farm, visit to the ancient city of Perge
- Fully qualified English speaking guide throughout
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
Sitting at the crossroads of Europe and the Middle East, Turkey offers a captivating smorgasbord for the senses. Feast your eyes on the ancient ruins of Ephesus, listen to the legendary tales of Greek gods and goddesses and trace the textiles and intricacies of original Ottoman pieces at the Atelya Art Hotel.
Foodies will rejoice in this tour’s strong focus on authentic Turkish cuisine. You will have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of regional specialities and a host of treats to tickle your taste buds. Highlights from the agenda include two nights’ accommodation on a vineyard, a trip to the extraordinary Mantar Evi mushroom restaurant and a visit to the GaraGöz brewery.
Although packed with cultural and culinary experiences, your itinerary still includes some free time. Whether you want to relax with a leisurely swim in one of the hotels’ outdoor pools, take a stroll along the golden beaches or make the most of your time in Turkey by booking additional activities (please see Personalise tab) you have the freedom to put your own stamp on this ultimate gastronomic getaway.
Key facts
| Duration: | 7 nights |
| Pace: | Balanced |
| Suitable for: | Ages 12+ |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
This tour requires a minimum number of 8 participants in order to operate. Your flights will not be booked and confirmed until we have reached this number at which time we will request a further deposit of £850 per person. The final balance payment will be requested 9 weeks before departure.
If the minimum number of bookings is not reached, we may make the decision to cancel the tour.
This will always be at least 9 weeks before the departure date and we will of course notify you and refund your deposit if the trip is cancelled.
You can secure your places with an initial £50 per person deposit.
Prices
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival and Welcome
Upon arriving in Izmir, you will transfer to the charming town of Selcuk and check in to the picturesque Vinifera Hotel. Admire the dusky hues of the Turkish sunset with an evening stroll through the rolling vineyards and olive trees. Head to Selcuk town centre to marvel at the Roman/Byzantine aqueduct, keep a look out for the community of stork nests that perch on top of its ancient columns and observe the believed burial site of the apostle, Saint John.
Included Meals: None -
DAY 2
Efes, Kırazköy and Şirince
Step back in time and discover more about the cultural and historical heritage of the ancient Greek port city of Ephesus. Famous for its Temple of Artemis, this UNESCO World Hertiage Site also showcases grand monuments, the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Excavations have revealed the House of the Virgin Mary providing a major place of Christian pilgrimage. This outstanding site is a must-see location where the Greco-Roman world truly comes to life.
You will also have the opportunity to visit the vineyards and olive groves of Kırazköy before enjoying an authentic lunch the pretty village of Şirince. The local restauranteur here serves up a menu from his wood-fired oven and has been renowned for producing his own wine. Many people in this area still hold to an impressive tradition of producing their own fresh wine using only pressed grapes with no added sugar.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 3
Temple of Apollo and Çine
An ancient Greek sanctuary and seat of an oracle of Apollo located on the coast of Ionia, Didyma is the setting for today’s exploration. Shrouded in mythology and history, you will follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar in making your way to this shrine.
Lunch will take place in one of the famous köfte restaurants of Çine. Positioned along the highway, everyone passing pulls over for a portion of their delicious and succulent meatballs. Discerning VIPs and easygoing truckers alike can’t get enough of the smoky aromas and flavourful dishes.
On your way to Dalyan, you will visit the GaraGöz brewery; a relatively new, and very welcome, addition to Turkey’s brewing scene.
After checking in to the Nish Caria Hotel, your gala meal will be served in the blissful surroundings of the Ege Boutique Hotel’s garden. A selection of contemporary dishes will be on offer as the chef elevates traditional Turkish dishes using modern techniques and presenting them with artistic flair.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 4
Fethiye and Kaş
Appreciate the scenic views of the Turkish countryside and coastline as you travel from Dalyan to Fethiye. Today’s agenda comprises of a visit to the bustling fish market. Here, you have the chance to select your fish fresh from the counter. The stallholder will clean and prepare the fish before taking it to your restaurant of choice to cook it to perfection for you. Usually, the fish will be served with an accompaniment of salad and ‘balloon bread.’
You will then continue your trip with a transfer to the coastal town of Kaş. This evening’s meal will be served at either Çinarlar or Bahçe – both local restaurants specialise in local seafood and consistently receive outstanding reviews from diners.
With just 23 rooms, we hope you enjoy the personal service from the welcoming team at tonight’s accommodation; the family run Hideaway Hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 5
Free Day
Savour a leisurely breakfast as you plan your day ahead. If you would like to add an extra activity, the Greek island of Kastellorizo is within touching distance. Why not opt for an excursion to experience another culture and cuisine? Remember to take your passport though! For budding chefs, participate in an immersive cooking lesson during an optional class in the Kaş area. Please see the Personalise page for further details.
If your plans are to rest and relax, there is plenty to keep you entertained on property. Soak up the stunning vistas from the Hideaway Hotel with a glass of your favourite tipple in one hand and a good book in the other. If you’re an early bird, Hatha yoga sessions are delivered every morning on the ‘yoga terrace,’ showcasing uninterrupted views and offering a peaceful start to your day. There’s convenient access to the sea, Leymona Beach and the hotel boasts its own fresh water pool.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 6
Korkuteli
Today, you will head inland to visit a sesame mill in the mountainous hinterland before continuing through the mountains to Korkuteli for lunch at Mantar Evi. This characterful restaurant is located on a mushroom farm and epitomises farm to fork dining. The small deli adjacent to the restaurant is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir such as organic mushroom jam, pickled or candied mushrooms.
The team at the Atelya Art Hotel eagerly await your arrival for tonight’s stay. Relax in the courtyard or take a dip in the swimming pool. The entire fabric of the property will transport you through history and spark your imagination with its Ottoman architecture and collection of niche artwork.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 7
Perge and Parlak
The ruins of the Roman city of Perge are calling. Gain an insight into notable historical figures and get up close to the excavated monumental buildings. A delicious lunch of şiş and piyaz (kebab and bean salad) will be served up before heading back to the Art Hotel.
Your gourmet adventure will conclude with a farewell meal at Parlak – an institution of old Antalya. Now in its third generation, Parlak contniues its flavoursome journey in the footsteps of its namesake founder who first fired up the grills in 1954. The restaurant continues to draw on the rich heritage of fresh ingredients and traditional receipes, fused with a passion for flavour and a hunger to execute trending techniques. We hope this evening will round of your week of rich gastronomic experiences, cultural insights and fascinating historic attractions.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
DAY 8
Departure
Following breakfast, you will bid farewell to Turkey with a return flight home from Antalya airport.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Vinifera Vineyards Hotel
Nights: 1-2
Enveloped by 50 decares of rolling countryside, Vinifera Vineyards Hotel offers guests peace and tranquillity. The property features a unique stone-built structure designed by an Austrian architect. Be enchanted by the aromatic lavender gardens, the lush valley and endless vineyards as you relax in one of the hotel’s vintage rooms.
Hotel facilities
- Taste wines produced from the property’s 20 hectare vineyard and state-of-the-art facilities. Learn about the process and visit the French oak barrels
- Sample regional delicacies in the hotel’s à la carte restaurant, Yedi Bilgeler
- Cool off in the outdoor swimming pool boasting beautiful views of the grounds
Room Type
Twin/Double Room: Expect exquisite views of the vineyard, mountains or gardens and light airy accommodation furnished in a rustic, country style. All rooms come with a private balcony and bathroom. Rooms situated on the ground floor open onto the garden. You can enjoy Wi-fi, cable TV, a coffee machine, mini bar, room safe, air conditioning and central heating, a telephone and hair dryer.
Dalyan Hotel Caria Nish
Nights: 3
With only 45 rooms, Hotel Caria Nish epitomises ‘small and friendly.’ Fall in love with its traditional design, adorned with hot pink bougainvillea flowers and trailing greenery. Hotel Caria Nish has an exclusive, intimate feel providing a serene sanctuary to relax in after a busy day of exploring.
Hotel facilities
- Situated in the heart of Dalyan; a small town famous for its Iztuzu Beach, ancient city of Caunos, and mud baths
- The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and Seafood cuisine. Vegetarian, halal and vegan options can also be requested
- The hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool, perfect for cooling off in the Turkish sunshine
Room Type
Double Room: Each air-conditioned room has a balcony with views of the pool, a private bathroom, free wi-fi a flat screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities.
Hideaway Hotel
Nights: 4-5
This family-run property offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kas harbour, Meis Island (Kastellorizo), a garden of olive trees and the Mediterranean Sea. Owners, Ahmet and Marie, will be delighted to welcome you to their slice of paradise and ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible.
Hotel facilities
- Conveniently located beside Kaş Amphitheater, and a ten minute walk to the harbour, Kaş town centre and bus station
- Relax in the small, fresh-water swimming pool or indulge in a good book from the library under the shade of the pergola
- Hatha yoga sessions take place every morning on the terrace with unrivalled views
- Savour a lavish breakfast from the extensive choice of freshly prepared organic produce served on the terrace. Later in the day, Koi Sushi bar invites guests to sample flavours of Japan with an authentic array of dishes and signature cocktails
Room Type
Twin/Double Room: Decorated with light-coloured furnishings, all rooms at the Hideaway are bright and airy offering guests a spacious and comfortable stay. Accommodation here is air-conditioned and comprises of a private bathroom, hairdryer and a selection of toiletries. Some rooms boast uninterrupted views of the glittering Mediterranean Sea. If you would like to guarantee a room with a spectacular view during your stay, please speak to one of our Travel Experts who will be happy to arrange this for you.
Atelya Art Hotel
Nights: 6-7
Blending history and luxurious details, the Atelya Art Hotel consists of two 18th Century Ottoman mansions and four reused historical houses. The hotel has remained true to its original architecture and preserved ancient characteristics such as hand-carved decorations and a marble water well.
Hotel facilities
- Atelya hotel boasts a fantastic central location and is within minutes of Hadrian's Gate, Kesik Minaret, Clock Tower, marina, beach, Antalya city centre and shopping centres
- Take a look in the exclusive courtyard exhibiting pieces from the Ancient Period to the present day
- Enjoy your favourite tipple basking on the sun terrace or go for a dip in the outdoor swimming pool
- Breakfast is served al fresco amidst the garden’s centuries-old orange and jasmine trees
Room Type
Double Room: Parquet flooring and hand-woven carpets transport guests back in time. Bedrooms here are rustic and traditional. Each room has a private bathroom, air-conditioning, wi-fi and safety deposit boxes.
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Day trip to Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo, also known as Meis, is a small Greek island just a short ferry ride away from Kas. A day trip from offers the perfect opportunity to experience the island's unique charm, rich history, and stunning scenery.
The journey typically takes around 30 minutes and you will require your passport. Upon arrival in Kastellorizo's charming harbour, you will be greeted by colourful houses cascading down the hillside. Take some time to wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, lined with quaint shops and cafes. Be sure to capture the iconic photo opportunity in front of the colourful "Megisti" sign, a reminder that Kastellorizo means "biggest" in Greek despite its small size.
Immerse yourself in the island's history by visiting the impressive Kastellorizo Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the harbour. Explore the castle ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. Don't miss the charming Blue Grotto, a hidden cave accessible by boat, where sunlight creates a mesmerizing blue reflection on the water.
Other options
Activities
Turkish Cookery Lesson
Your cookery lesson will take place at the home of a local master of Turkish cuisine and meze in particular. As you take in the views over the sea, you will be shown how to make some classics of Turkish cookery like stuffed vine leaves or peppers and mücver (courgette fritters). When you have put your new skills to use, you will be invited to sample the finished dishes accompanied by a glass of wine.
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