The small Turkish resort is a far cry from the saturated resorts surrounding it (Image: Katie Oborn)
A European village with stunning views also boasts a Blue Flag beach – and it’s hidden away from saturated resorts.
You can still get a feeling of the authentic life in this holiday destination which offers wildlife sightings you may have never seen.
Red squirrels live in the surrounding pine-clad forests along with porcupines and tortoises.
Groups of large wild boars have also been spotted roaming the streets late at night in this still-authentic area.
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The Turkish village is surrounded by pine forests and mountains (Image: Katie Oborn)
You may fall in love with stray cats and dogs that also greet you on local streets, but most are well looked after by the residents.
There’s interesting pockets of traditional life and peaceful places to find in this part of Turkey – as well as busier spots saturated with tourists at certain times of year.
Turunç is in the district of Marmaris, but the small resort is a far cry from the saturated resorts surrounding it.
The nearest airport is Dalaman, so you’ll need a transfer to take you to your chosen resort unless you’re hiring a vehicle.
Snaking hairpin roads lead into this relatively unspoilt holiday spot. With views of the crescent-shaped bay as you descend down the Taurus Mountains towards Turunç.
You may spot people selling local produce on the roads leading into Turunç. Villagers from small mountain settlements set up in laybys selling honey, olive oil, herb or fruit and vegetables.
With an all-year-round population of under 2000 local people, this part of Turkey has retained its charm – and the call to prayer from the mosque can be heard in and around Turunç village.
If you’re looking for a more peaceful break than the busier nearby party towns, Turunç is well worth a visit.
The market in Turunç (Image: Katie Oborn)
The natural environment here has been preserved, despite huge resorts springing up around the old fishing village.
It’s where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean Sea, which sits within the Turkish Riviera – also commonly known as the Turquoise Coast.
This part of southwest Turkey is vast – with much to explore in Turunç and beyond.
A colourful market in the heart of Turunç village is a must-see, it’s tucked away in a residential area and you can buy herbs and spices, Turkish delight, clothes and souvenirs.
Turunç is in the Turkish Riviera – also commonly known as the Turquoise Coast. (Image: Katie Oborn)
It’s also easy to head down to the harbour for numerous boat trips that take you far and wide – or just into the next resort. There are also pirate-themed boat trips in peak season.
Turunç is just along the coast from the busier resort of Icmeler (İçmeler), which is easily accessible via a boat trip.
Icmeler itself has a hidden-away old town along with a huge stretch of beach with many bars and restaurants to visit on a day trip.
Closer still is the small bay of Amos – next to Turunç, it’s a 45-minute walk or a ten-minute drive away – and a restaurant is located right on the shore there.
On the main stretch of shops and restaurants in Turunç one small eatery, the Turunc Bistro offers friendly vibes and traditional – or more English-themed food.
But if you wander away from the main street you’ll find a traditional bakery, Bozbaşak Unlu Mamulleri, selling tasty treats.
Just along from the bakery is top-rated TripAdvisor restaurant, Antik Restoran – run by a local family.
You can really get away from it all at Loryma Resort Hotel which is nestled in the mountains. A recent TripAdvisor review describes this place as a “quiet jewel in the Med” – and a free shuttle bus will transport you over and back to Turunç village.