Hidden Gems In...Turkey – Avena Resort

Rich in history with landscapes and activities ready to blow your mind, Turkey is a superb destination. A country proud of its heritage, you are treated to delightful cuisine, beautiful beaches and vibrant towns. The medieval location of Alanya is perfect for a family holiday as you enjoy long swathes of golden sand and an authentic Turkish experience.

A four-hour flight from the United Kingdom and boasting temperatures touching 30ºC during the summer months, this spot behind the Tauraus Mountains makes for an unforgettable break. The Avena Resort and Spa Hotel is a popular choice in Alanya and offers great value for money.

Recently renovated Turkish delight

The Avena is a spacious, all-inclusive resort with large rooms and a private sandy beach that is merely 150 metres, a five minute walk, away – and comes with sunbeds and a beach bar! During the day you can surf the internet in the lobby, have a drink at the pool bar, swim in the warm swimming pool and take advantage of a plethora of activities during the day with the energetic entertainment staff before enjoying the shows in the evenings.

From table tennis and cycling to the spa and sauna, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The helpful crew are there to take care of your every need and the buffet food is good with local Turkish pizzas and pastries available. There are plenty of shops and bars around the hotel and, being just a short taxi ride into the centre, you have the chance to explore the area.

Family fun in Alanya

This hotel offers great service for a lovely holiday but the location adds an extra string to its bow. The city of Alanya has grown rapidly since tourists found the wonderful stretches of beach – many now classed as Blue Flag – it has to offer and outside of the all-inclusive resorts there is a wonderful waterfront to explore and boat cruises to enjoy.

There are a lot of modern additions to the area with nightclubs that go on until the early hours, but away from the modern centre you get traditional red-roofed houses that run up the hillside and places steeped in history. Take a look at these six places to visit in Alanya:

• The 13^th century Alanya Castle, on a rocky peninsula some 820 feet above sea level, is well worth a visit to explore the remains and take a walk around the open-air museum.
• See the atmospheric remains of an old shipyard at Tersane. Stroll down the wooden walkway as you take in the sights and see the waves crash through the stone arches.
• At Tersane, you get the chance to visit Kizil Kule. You will see the Red Tower (Kizil Kule) on the city flag and this landmark in the harbour houses a museum detailing the history of Alanya.
• Have a day with nature by taking a drive to the incredible dim cave. Complete with stunning stones and unique structures, the million-year-old cave is a beautiful family day out.
• Another cave in the area is the Damlatas Cave. Smaller but close to the city centre, this is a natural wonder that wasn’t found until 1948.
• Enjoy a fun day out with all the family at the Sealanya Dolphin Seapark. Your kids will love it, and you even get a chance to swim with dolphins!

Glorious weather in a four-star setting, the Avena Resort and Spa Hotel is a wonderful Mediterranean getaway for all the family. Steps away from the ocean, with the city a short distance away, find your family the perfect summer deal with Holiday Gems today.