Known in Turkish as "Beautiful Izmir," the city lies at the head of a long and narrow gulf furrowed by ships and yachts. The climate is mild, and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breeze tempers the sun's heat. Behind the palm-lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains.

The art galleries, theaters and cultural events give this cosmopolitan city its special vibrancy. The original settlement was established in the third millennium BC and represented the most advanced culture in western Anatolia at that time. Through the centuries this thriving city and the surrounding area came under the sovereignty of Hittites, Ionians, Lydians, Persians, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans. Levent Marina provides an excellent place to begin a yachting adventure. Sailing in and around the beautiful Gulf of Izmir will prepare voyagers for the wonderful sites that lie ahead.

At Urla Iskelesi (Urla Pier), the small islands that dot the coast will certainly charm you. Beautiful beaches and excellent moorings with swimming, snorkelling and diving are all available in the area. From Urla Iskelesi sail on to the Karaburan Peninsula. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels, tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water. Voyage out of the Gulf of Izmir around the Karaburun Peninsula to the Çeşme Peninsula, a spit of land lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea. Çeşme "fountain", derives Setur Altın Yunus Marina, Çeşme - Izmir its name from the many sources of water found in the area.

A 14th-century Genoese fortress, restored and enlarged by the Ottomans in the 16th century, dominates the smal I port of Çeşme. Around Çeşme, the large Altın Yunus Setur Marina complex and the berthing places of Ilica and Dalyan are all noted for their safety. In town, the 16th­century caravanserai built by Süleyman the Magnificent near the fortress, has been converted into a hotel. Excellent shopping opportunities offer the finest quality carpets, leather goods, as well as souvenir items.

At night, a lively, fun atmosphere pervades the port, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars and discos along the promenade. The thermal baths in the area, along with the natural springs which mix with the sea water in Ilıca Bay, provide soothing relaxation. Southeast of Çeşme, beautiful bays offer splendid scenery and tranquil night moorings in complete safety from the winds and waves.

Further along is Sigacik, where a picturesque marina rests beneath fortifications that date from the Genoese period. Conveniently close is the antique site of Teos, noted for its Temple of Dionysus, the god of wine. It is also an excellent area in which to sample some of the country's superb wines. The Kuşadasi Gulf spreads south and southeast with some of the most enticing beaches, bays and coves on the Aegean coast. 
 

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