Mira

A world away from 21st Century hustle and bustle, the authentically Turkish hamlet of Islamlar is a restful rustic refuge where day-to-day life continues at the same somnolent pace it has done for generations. Set amidst this undulating, richly verdant landscape of gently babbling streams, with fabulous views over coast and country, Mira is perfectly suited to anyone seeking a comfortable, very well appointed rural retreat which, at the same time, is only a short drive from the coast and excellent amenities.

Owned by a caring, super-considerate family, means that space, elegance, taste, admirable facilities and outstanding views are all found here in abundance.

With vaulted beamed ceilings, floors of polished cedar wood or intricately patterned tiles, hand carved/painted furniture plus numerous panoramic windows and doors to light up this gorgeous interior (and invite those magnificent sweeping views inside), this is a property tailor-made for effortless summer living.

Four air conditioned bedrooms and four bathrooms keep comfort levels equally balanced for larger families or sharing friends while privacy is helpfully enhanced by the bedroom distribution on the first floor which is, effectively, two independent halves each accessed by its own staircase.

Catching the sunshine all day long, a spacious sun terrace with recently built sauna and jacuzzi borders the larger than average private pool, nestling in attractive grounds of lavender beds, mature shrubs and olive trees where various nooks and crannies provide soothing shade over the hotter parts of the day.

And we really must mention the night time views at Mira which are often the equal of those during the day except... they are now above your head!  A combination of clear skies and minimal artificial light in the vicinity means a breathtaking celestial panorama can regularly be admired through the balmy darkness!

Less than 1km away downhill, sleepy Islamlar has a mini market stocking everyday essentials as well as four easy-going restaurants for fresh-cooked lunches or dinners (grilled meats and, in particular, freshwater trout from the surrounding mountain springs are noted specialities, the latter attracting the locals for many miles around).

It may not be easy but do find time to leave this pastoral idyll and explore! Just a 15 minute drive away, Kalkan is famous for its bustling harbour, and cobbled streets crammed with shops and roof-top restaurants. The gloriously preserved Lycian ruins of Patara (17km) sit next to a sweeping sandy beach, widely considered one of the best in the entire Mediterranean. Kaputas (a 10 minute drive from Kalkan) is another immensely attractive sandy beach lapped by pristine, aquamarine waters.

An incredibly scenic coastal road southwards takes you to the pretty town of Kas (32km) or, about an hour further on, the fascinating, submerged ruins and historic castle of Kekova-Simena make a delightful destination for a day trip.