ENJOY CHARMS OF THE COUNTRYSIDE
Earthly Pleasures of Urla
Urla, a coastal gem near the city of İzmir, is a place where the quintessence of the Turkaegean way of life is not only preserved but, in fact, lauded. Here, its inviting microclimate and embracing local hospitality greet visitors with a cornucopia of regional specialties, including fresh fish, olives, grapes, wild herbs and the renowned gum artichokes, often feted at local festivals. It’s no surprise that Urla has swiftly become the epicenter of superior dining experiences, highlighted by the Urla Wine Route and several acclaimed MICHELIN-starred restaurants. Its heritage, dating back millennia, is showcased by a 2600-year-old olive oil workshop in nearby Klazomenai —the oldest such facility ever found in Anatolia. The time-honored techniques of olive cultivation, themselves placed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible World Heritage, are still in practice today in Urla, Edremit, Ayvalık and beyond.
Best Tourism Villages
İzmir boasts charming hamlets like Birgi and Şirince, themselves having garnered acclaim from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as Best Tourism Villages for their commitment to fostering local communities and preserving both rural heritage and rich culinary traditions. Birgi offers 5,000 years of history and study in Seljukian and Ottoman architecture, while Şirince, near the ancient city of Ephesus, delights with wooden Ottoman houses and unique local wines crafted from locally sourced berries and fruits. Both are alluring and beckoning to all.
More countryside experiences: Travelers will find the villages of Taraklı (Sakarya), Bitez (Bodrum), Mustafapaşa (Kapadokya) and Ormana (Antalya) brimming with local charm.