Simena Ancient City, located in Demre district of Antalya, nestled on the Kekova coast, is a Lycian city dating back to the 4th century BC, accessible only by boat; inside the medieval castle on the hill lies one of Lycia's smallest theaters.
Simena, known today as Kaleköy, is an ancient Lycian city hidden beneath a small village nestled on the Kekova coast, between the districts of Kaş and Demre in Antalya. As a first-degree archaeological site, no new construction is permitted in the village; this status has both protected the area and created an authentic atmosphere, detached from time. Since the only way to reach the city is by boat, every visitor who steps here feels a bit like an adventurer.
The most striking structure of ancient Simena is the castle, built in the Middle Ages, rising directly above the village. Inside the castle, there is a small rock-cut theater from the ancient period; this theater is considered one of the smallest in Lycia. When considering the Lycian sarcophagi lining the coast, structures partially submerged due to an earthquake in the 2nd century AD, and the sunken city ruins opposite Kekova Island, it becomes clear why Simena attracts so many photographers and history enthusiasts.
Accessible by daily boat tours departing from Üçağız village or off the coast of Kaş, Simena offers a different light and tranquility both in the morning and in the afternoon. Although there are a few small restaurants and guesthouses in the village, space is quite limited; those wishing to stay overnight must make reservations in advance.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Antalya, Historical Sites, Historical sites in Antalya, Altınbeşik Cave.
Guide's Note
The only way to reach Kaleköy is by boat or by walking the Lycian Way trails; there is no road connection. The vast majority of visitors believe that this difficulty of access has preserved the village's unique character and tranquil atmosphere. Stone stairs, narrow streets covered with bougainvillea, and the small harbor are among the elements that distinguish the region from other tourist spots. The hospitable attitude of the villagers is also positively mentioned by multiple visitors.
The climb to the top of the castle is steep and can be tiring, especially in the summer heat; however, once you reach the top, the wide panorama encompassing Kekova bay, the sunken city ruins, and the surrounding islands wins the common admiration of almost all visitors. The small ancient theater ruin inside the castle is also a notable detail. Entry is possible with a MuseumPass. If you go early, you will be protected from the heat and encounter fewer crowds.
Homemade ice cream made from goat's milk in the village is particularly recommended in many reviews; there are also places to eat on the beach. However, some points that visitors are advised to pay attention to are:
- Visiting the castle outdoors during peak summer months like August can be quite stifling; it is recommended to bring plenty of water.
- The price of ice cream (100 TL per scoop) reflects the region's tourist status according to some visitors; it is stated that more affordable alternatives can be found elsewhere.
- The village has become somewhat touristy in recent years; while this has not yet spoiled its authentic atmosphere, it has become noticeable.
Best Time to Visit
The most suitable periods to visit Simena are April-June and September-October. During these periods, air temperatures are quite favorable for climbing the castle, boat tours are less crowded, and the turquoise waters of Kekova offer beautiful light for photography. In July and August, the region experiences a heavy influx of tourists; daily tours from Kaş can drop dozens of visitors in Kaleköy at the same time. In winter months, boat trips decrease, and some small businesses close; however, for those who love tranquility, a winter visit is also a unique experience.
How to Get to Simena?
The only way to reach Simena is by sea. There are two main options:
Via Üçağız: You can come to Üçağız village by car from Demre or Kaş and then rent a small boat or kayak to transfer to Kaleköy. The boat trip between Üçağız and Kaleköy takes only a few minutes. There is a car park available in Üçağız.
Daily tour from Kaş: Kekova boat tours organized from Kaş usually include Kaleköy in their itinerary. These tours depart early in the morning and return in the afternoon; they offer the opportunity to see the Sunken City, Üçağız, and Simena in one go.
The nearest airport is Antalya Airport. From there, it's approximately a 3-hour car journey to Kaş.
Suggested Itinerary: A Day in Kekova
Board a boat from Kaş or Üçağız early in the morning. As your first stop, cruise along the sunken city shores of Kekova Island by boat; if you choose a glass-bottom boat, you can see the underwater structures much more clearly. Afterwards, stop at Üçağız for lunch. In the afternoon, head to Kaleköy, first examining the Lycian sarcophagi along the coast, then climbing to the castle. From the castle ramparts, enjoy the view of Kekova Island and the surrounding bays. If you return to the boat an hour before sunset, you can catch the chance to watch the sunset from the sea.
What to Eat, Where to Eat?
Dining options in Kaleköy are quite limited; there are only a few small restaurants and cafes in the village. Fresh fish, octopus salad, and appetizers made from seasonal vegetables are the main choices. Prices are slightly above the regional average due to the difficulty of access.
For a wider menu and more affordable prices, Üçağız village is a good alternative. Small restaurants lined along the coast offer fresh seafood and home-cooked meals. If you are returning to Kaş, you can also have dinner there; Kaş has a much richer selection of restaurants.
Photography Spots
Simena is a real treasure for photographers. For the best shots, pay attention to these points:
Castle walls: Climb to the highest point of the castle to capture Kekova Island, turquoise bays, and white-washed village houses in the same frame. Early morning mist and soft light make this angle extremely impressive.
Lycian sarcophagi on the coast: Ancient sarcophagi intertwined with the sea create powerful compositions, especially when shot from a low angle. The afternoon sun illuminates this area well.
From the boat: Move to the bow of the boat to frame the silhouette of the village and the castle behind it as you approach or depart from Kaleköy.
Things to Know
Swimming ban: Swimming and diving are prohibited in the sunken city area of Kekova Island; the area is a first-degree archaeological site. Failure to comply with this rule can lead to serious penalties.
Comfortable shoes: The climb to the castle consists of cobblestones and rocky paths; climbing with high heels or slippers is both difficult and dangerous. Sturdy sports shoes are essential.
Water and sun protection: It is difficult to find markets in the village, and prices are high. Don't forget to bring enough water and sunscreen.
Cash: Some small businesses may not accept cards; carry cash with you.
Wake up early: In summer months, daily tours fill Kaleköy around noon. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is much more enjoyable.
Where to Stay?
Accommodation options in Kaleköy are extremely limited; there are only a few small guesthouses in the village, and space is scarce. These guesthouses fill up quickly during the summer season, so advance booking is essential. The real reward of staying overnight in Kaleköy is experiencing that special moment in the morning when the village is completely silent and the daily tour boats have not yet arrived.
For those seeking more options, Üçağız offers small boutique guesthouses. Kaş, on the other hand, is the most developed base in the region with hotels, boutique establishments, and accommodation options for every budget; it is an ideal base point for day trips to Simena.
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