Gül Baba House, Kalkan, Turkey

Gül Baba House, a villa to let/for rent in Kalkan, on Turkey's Mediterranean coast, is an oasis of calm for independent self-catering travellers.

Built over a period of three years by my former colleague, Lonely Planet author Steve Fallon, and his journalist partner Mike Rothschild, the house is made entirely of local materials, including sandstone, juniper and cedar wood, and wrought iron.

Perched on the mountainside above the charming village of Kalkan, it offers spectacular views of olive groves and the azure blue Mediterranean to the front and soaring mountains behind.

The villa is named after the 16th-century Ottoman dervish Gül Baba ("Daddy Rose") who introduced the rose to Europe. Lovers of antiquities will be spoiled for choice in Kalkan, the heart of ancient Lycia. There are literally dozens of archaeological sites within easy driving distance, including the ancient capital Xanthos, a mere 15 minutes' ride away.

The house is just off the Lycian Way, the well marked 500km-long hiking trail that connect ancient sites by following old village paths, bringing walkers into contact with a traditional Turkish way of life that lingers in the mountains despite the proximity of coastal tourist areas.

With four bedrooms and three bathrooms, Gül Baba House is actually two villas in one: the top of its three floors has independent access, making the villa even more versatile for your family or small group.

The house is fitted with all modern appliances and furnishings, including wireless internet access. Antiques and objects from the owners' travels around the world are in all rooms. A keen cook, Mike has given great thought to the kitchen—which makes trips to local farmers' markets even more rewarding.

The villa, set amidst fruit trees and fragrant blossoms, has no swimming pool, but Kalkan beach is a mere five-minute drive away, and Patara, Turkey's longest beach, 20km of sand and dunes, is just a 15-minute drive.

When you contact Steve and Mike, be sure to mention TTP. Here's why.

Gül Baba House
Kördere
Kalkan, Turkey
Steve Fallon: fallonsb@aol.com
Mike Rothschild: rothschild.mike@gmail.com

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Gul Baba House, Kalkan, Turkey

Above, Gül Baba House on its verdant hillside. Below, the salon with fireplace.

Above, sunset from Gül Baba House.
Left, Patara Beach on a busy day.

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