Gundogan
The quiet and peaceful village of Gundogan is nestled on the Aegean coast of Turkey and despite becoming more popular in recent years; it still remains true to its roots. Surrounded by hills filled with olive and pine trees, the coastal resort is much like the neighbouring destinations as fishing is an important trade.
In ancient times, the village was called Farilya and it was home to many prominent civilizations including the exotic Persians, domineering Romans and the long ruling Ottoman Empire. In 1961, the village was renamed to Gundogan and translated, it means sunrise. This is a brilliant portrayal of the beauty of the area both in day and night time.
How to Get To Gundogan
Gundogan is situated only a few minutes’ drive from Yalikavak and can be reached using the major highway running between Yalikavak and Golturkbuku. From Bodrum town centre, public transport will get you there within 30 minutes. From Bodrum airport, drivers need to use the D330 and follow signs on the right indicating the turn off for Gundogan. This journey will take approximately 1 hour.
Things to Do
- Head to the buzz of the village on a Wednesday to practise your bartering skills at the local market.
- Kucukbuk is a smaller village worth exploring and located between Gundogan and Hebilkoy.
- Surfing fans love to head to Gundogan for the light breezes that make the sport enjoyable.
- Explore the surrounding countryside and discover rock monasteries, mystic caves and ancient wind mills.
- Gundogan Beach is busy during the summer offering a wide range of water sports including scuba diving and jet skis.
- Visit the neighbouring resort of Golturkbuku which is the destination for elite Turks from the big cities.
- Marvel at the secluded bays along the coastline by jumping on a daily pleasure boat trip.
- Snorkelling and underwater photography is a much loved passion in this area due to the beautiful and amazing sites to see.
- Apostle island can be reached by boat within 15 minutes and it is home to three byzantine churches that will produce some excellent photos for the holiday album.
Weather
Gundogan is an ideal place to visit at all times of the year apart from December to March when excessive rainfall can hamper your visit. The area is hottest from the months of July to September and this is ideal weather for beach lovers. If exploring is your passion, visit during the spring or autumn seasons as the temperature and humidity is perfect.
Nightlife and Eating Out
Much of the nightlife in Gundogan is focused around the man-made jetties protruding from the coastline. Restaurants will serve customers with any dish that tempts their palette. Traditional mezes, crunchy salads and fresh fish of the day is a popular choice for many. Many of the restaurants will offer entertainment later on in the night after the main eating period is over. Nightlife is moderate in Gundogan or there is the alternative to head to Bodrum town centre if you want the large nightclubs.
Hotels
As Gundogan is growing in popularity, so is the choice of hotel accommodation. There are new luxury resorts built on the outskirts of the village and these will ensure your every need is catered for. Otherwise you can opt for a smaller, family run hotel which will be centrally located, cheap and provide you with the basics. Take a look at our hotel bookings page for the best in rates and great deals.
