History
The first mention of Belek dates back to the 4th century BC. Ruler Attalus II handed over these lands to the Romans, who began constructing grand structures in the area. Later, the Seljuk Turks conquered the region and greatly expanded its wealth and development.
Modern Belek’s history began in 1984, when tourism development started in what was then just a typical Turkish town.
Today, visitors to Belek can stay in luxurious hotels along the Turkish Riviera, dine in beachfront restaurants and bars, shop for colorful souvenirs, and enjoy the comfort of all-inclusive resorts.
Sports Infrastructure
Belek – the Most Athletic Resort in Turkey
Belek is considered the most athletic resort in Turkey. It is home to the National Golf Club and numerous golf courses with top-quality surfaces.
Belek also has a large number of football fields. In winter, football teams from Europe and Asia come here for training camps.
Diving in this region takes place in the Köprüçay River, located at the bottom of the Köprülü Canyon. The route stretches for 12 kilometers and includes sections of 1st to 3rd level difficulty.
The Köprülü Nature Reserve is also known for its excellent opportunities for rock climbing.
The evergreen eucalyptus forests are a perfect setting for jogging and cycling tours.
Climate
Belek has a subtropical climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters with frequent rainfall. The sun shines here for around 300 days a year, delighting visitors almost year-round. Evergreen eucalyptus groves and pine forests surround the resort, providing natural protection against cold air currents.
The most comfortable time to vacation in Belek is from May to September.
Flora and Fauna
The Mediterranean Sea is rich in beautiful flora and fascinating fauna. In addition to mysterious caves and grottoes, divers can discover the remains of sunken ships. Belek is also one of the rare places in Turkey where giant loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), listed in the Red Book, can be found. These turtles can weigh up to 200 kg.
Moreover, the resort is often called a "bird paradise" due to the abundance of bird species—109 in total—including rare ones. For example, the barn owl, which is considered a symbol of the resort, lives here.
Sights of Belek and Surroundings
The Land of Legends Theme Park – often called the "Turkish Disneyland" – offers an extensive selection of water attractions. Guests can enjoy 41 slides, a 400-meter rafting simulator, a wave pool, dancing fountains, water cannons for children, beach zones with Maldivian sand, a dolphinarium with shows, swimming with dolphins and belugas, as well as an underwater sea walk.
Troy Aquapark is designed in the style of an ancient city – wooden towers, walls, and a legendary 25-meter-high Trojan horse. Throughout the park, you’ll find replicas of antique amphorae. All staff are dressed and equipped like ancient Greeks.
Köprülü Canyon National Park, located 60 km north of Belek, is famous for its healing air filled with phytoncides from eucalyptus, pine, cedar, cypress, and juniper. You can walk through olive and pistachio groves along the mountain river, watch birds, or go rafting.
The Ancient City of Perge, believed to have been founded in the 7th century BC or earlier, is known for its Greco-Roman ruins and as a place where, according to the Bible, the Apostle Paul preached. Perge is famous for its 2nd-century amphitheater with beautiful reliefs, whose sculptures are displayed in the Antalya Archaeological Museum. Opposite the theater is an ancient stadium that could seat 12,000 spectators. Parts of the defensive walls still stand, including the "Roman Gate" from the 4th century and the Hellenistic Gate from the 3rd century BC. Numerous house ruins, temples, and Roman baths can also be seen at the site.
Just 18 km from Belek lies Aspendos, founded in the 10th century BC. Its most famous landmark is the 2nd-century Roman theater, where architect Zenon achieved exceptional acoustics. The theater still hosts performances today. If you visit Turkey in July or August, you may catch the Opera and Ballet Festival held there. Also worth seeing in Aspendos are the remains of the hippodrome, necropolis, acropolis, Roman aqueduct (2nd century), and the agora.
