A small but very picturesque Turkish city, located on the Mediterranean coast, is recognized as the greenest resort in a sunny country. Not far from Belek is the famous Koprulu Canyon National Park, which is a continuation of the paradise.
Natural Landmark of Turkey
The nature reserve Köprülü Kanyon, considered one of the main miraculous sights of Turkey, occupies the zone of the Western Taurus - the mountain system of the state. Its total area is approximately 500 hectares. The national park, which is a narrow valley, is located next to a swift river flowing into the Mediterranean Sea. She became the reason for the formation of a beautiful canyon, the depth of which in some places reaches a hundred meters. High slopes descend to the banks of the Kopruchay River. The gently sloping ones are covered with dense forest, and the rocky cliffs pose a danger to people.
As scientists note,there are only seven natural formations of this kind on our planet, which appeared as a result of the runoff of mountain waters.
Stormy Elements
Swift Koepruchay, whose icy waters have a beautiful turquoise hue, provides excellent opportunities for rafting for both beginners and true professionals. It is filled with numerous cascades and springs oozing in the crevices of the canyon. And if at the very beginning the river, flowing from time immemorial, does not resemble a stormy element, then with every kilometer the wild foamy streams look intimidating. Alloys of various difficulty levels attract tourists vacationing on the Antalya coast, and extreme lovers who want to tickle their nerves.
State Protected Area
Koprulu Canyon, declared a national treasure, stretches along the banks of a turbulent river that paved the way between the slopes of the mountains for 14 kilometers. In the reserve, covered with cedar and pine forests, the air is saturated with ozone, and thousands of people rush here for medicinal purposes to strengthen their immunity. The delicious scent of eucalyptus trees helps with upper respiratory problems.
The protected area is famous for its diversity of Mediterranean flora. More than 600 species of plants and trees grow here, and some can only be seen in this region. In spring, at the peak of flowering, the air is filled with a wonderful fragrance, and the forest thickets are dressed in bright outfits.
Koprulu Canyon Park is home to one hundred species of birds and many mammals. EspeciallyGiant carriage turtles, listed in the Red Book, delight children and adults. Breeding large-headed giants living in the water feel great in the reserve.
Antique Oluk Bridge
Nature lovers will be pleasantly surprised by the fact that in the national park you can not only enjoy amazing landscapes, but also get acquainted with architectural monuments preserved from past eras. Remaining from Roman times and recently restored, the Oluk stone arched bridge is a fine example of ancient culture.
High, about 27 meters, and very strong construction, erected in the II century, connects the edges of the canyon. Surprisingly, the invention of the ancient Romans, thanks to its reliable design, serves us to this day, withstanding significant loads.
Ruins of the ancient settlement Selge
The remains of an ancient settlement called Selge, which appeared on the territory of the Koprulu Canyon several millennia ago, excite the imagination of tourists. You can get to the ruins on your own along a narrow path that passes through the forest and is equipped with signs. However, as part of an organized tour, along with a guide who will tell the curious history of the town, it will be much more interesting.
The heyday of one of the most powerful settlements came during the time of Greek rule. An interesting object of Selge is the theater, which served as a place for sports and colorful performances. Herethere are ancient burials and the ruins of a temple dedicated to Zeus.
What to do in a peaceful place?
People come here not only to enjoy the peace and quiet. Fans of outdoor activities will not be disappointed: the administration of the reserve is doing everything so that tourists can fully experience the charm of being in the wild.
Here you can go mountain climbing, horseback riding, visit the mysterious underground world with stalactites of the most bizarre shapes, go down on inflatable rafts along a mountainous stormy river. In addition, numerous restaurants located on the territory of the Köprülü Canyon offer national meat and fish dishes, as well as delicious Turkish sweets.
Those who came to the reserve on their own are always approached by local guides offering a boat ride. This is a popular excursion that introduces the wondrous beauties of the picturesque corner.
Koprulu canyon nature reserve: how to get there?
From any city in Turkey it is easy to get to the national park, located in the south of the country, in the province of Antalya. You can buy a ready-made tour or go on an independent trip so that you don’t depend on anyone and don’t rush anywhere. You need to drive along the federal highway D400 (Antalya - Kemer), which runs along the Mediterranean coast, paying attention to road signs. The reference point will be the village of Beshkonak (Beşkonak), from which it is five kilometers to go to the natural miracle.
Entrance to the Koprulu Canyon (Turkey) is free, but the help of a Russian-speaking guide will cost 50Euro.
Tourists come here every day, because fresh air and an amazing riot of colors give only positive emotions.
