Guide to Gundogan

'A restful fishing village in a picturebook bay, Gundogan keeps things simple – a long, sandy beach, engrossing local sights and a gentle way of living.'

Steeped in peace, this charming fishing village on the northern Bodrum peninsula is pure Turkish delight. Hugging a long, curving sandy beach, it's a secluded retreat that doesn't feel like it's out-in-the-sticks, making it perfect for some soothing, sun-assisted relaxation.
The focus of days here are firmly fixed on the beach, where the soft sands and sunbeds make for some genuinely comfortable lounging. Alternatively, settle on the little jetties that jut into the polished-glass waters, each a perfect, breeze-cooled sunbathing and swimming platform.
Once the sun's worked its magic, saunter along the bay to indulge in the inviting shops, restaurants and cafes that jockey for position along the edges. Take a seat and feast on delectable Turkish meze, like lemon-drizzled dolmas accompanied by a zesty orange juice or thirst-quenching beer. Gazing over the pretty blue waters, criss-crossed with puttering small boats, there can hardly be a mellower lunching spot anywhere in the world. Then, continue your beachside idyll by hiring a boat from the harbour or joining the eager windsurfers who favour Gundogan for its light offshore breezes.
Come sundown, the waterfront has a smattering of bars to keep you happy till late. But most people choose Gundogan for laid-back evenings, opting to linger over al fresco dinners under a rose-pink moon.
Beach-lounging apart, make time to explore the local area. Visit outlying Rabbit Island to see its crumbled monastery or wander through tangerine groves threaded with splendid ocean views. Marvel at the mysterious local stalactite- and stalagmite-filled caves, where Bronze Age artifacts were found. And cap your holiday with a trip to Bodrum, absorbing its historic monuments and charismatic old town.

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