Gümüşlük

Charming Gümü?lük (named for its ancient silver mines) is built on the ancient ruins of Myndos. It is one of the peninsula's more authentic, slower-paced, less-developed villages—no high-rises or large hotels are allowed, so the bulk of lodging options is comprised of small apart hotels and pensions. Much of the Myndos ruins are submerged underwater, but major land excavations are taking place to recover the ancient city, and a drainage system dating to Myndos's Roman civilization period has already been discovered. The bewitching little town is a popular excursion for residents and visitors staying all over the peninsula, who come to Gümü?lük to enjoy its romantic sunsets, fish restaurants, and "village breakfasts" on the water; it also has a Blue Flag public beach. The water is often shallow enough to wade over to Tav?an Adas? (Rabbit Island), though the island’s pre-Roman ruins, visible from the water, are off-limits to all but archaeologists. The restored, hilltop Eklisia Church hosts many cultural and arts events, including a summertime classical music festival. If you have the time, and a car, you can make the trip up to Karakaya, a village of stone houses perched above Gümü?lük and surrounded with cactus and other foliage. In winter, the local population is augmented by writers and artists, drawn by the inspiring serenity and the off-season prices.