What to See in Sogut
Visiting Turkey isn’t just about the big tourist resorts and the cities, it’s about exploring the small coves and the villages too. These are the places where you will see most of the traditional ways of life, and experience the culture first-hand. Of course, these villages are often quite spectacular in their scenery too. One of those villages, and one which certainly ticks the scenery box, is called Sogut.
Sogut is located quite close to Marmaris, around 50km in a south-western direction, so if you are based in the popular tourist resort then you can easily jump on one of the regular local buses and head out to explore this peaceful spot for the day. Sogut really serves as a break from the hustle and bustle of the biggest tourist resorts, especially Marmaris, which can become quite loud during the peak summer months!
There is another village very close to Sogut, called Taslica, so you could make it a double exploration and head there too! Both villages are located right at the very far end of the Bozburun Peninsula, which has stunning views far out to sea and over the mountains.
Things to See and Do
The most popular activity in this area is trekking, and one look at the scenery will tell you why! There are many trails to enjoy, and they vary in intensity. The mountains are quite high, but there are ways through some of the lower reaches, and the views are simply sublime! Heading a little higher up also gives you a welcome respite from the heat of summer. This part of the country can easily hit 40 degrees and over during July and August, with rain being a virtual stranger.
About a kilometre just outside of Sogut, into the countryside, you can visit the last few ruins of the ancient city of Thyssanos. Whilst you certainly couldn’t call these ruins large or well preserved, they are still there, and they offer a window to the past, in a stunning location too. If you want to check out more ruins then head to nearby Taslica, which is about 5km by road. If you venture a further 4km from that city you can enjoy the ruins of the ancient city of Phoenix, located high on Asar Hill. Again, views are amazing!
Saranda Cove is a must visit in this region. The landscape around here is another breath-taking example of Mother Nature, and this cove is known as the gate for the sea. The small village here is authentic and will show you true Turkish life, and on a clear day (of which there are many) you will be able to see the small Greek island of Simi. Check out the sunset views here for a really romantic moment.
If you want to stay in Sogut, there are some small guest houses on offer, so simply do a little checking around before you go. It is certainly worthwhile having a couple of days peace and quiet, away form the tourist traps of Marmaris and other surrounding resorts.
We do have to give a word of warning however, the buses to and from Sogut are regular, but they tend to run when they are full, and they can get very busy. You will find locals heading over to the busier towns for shopping and other supplies, and they will stock up in a big, cramming it all onto the small bus! The buses aren’t coaches, and are small dolmus/mini buses instead. Hey, it’s an experience if nothing else!
