Islamlar

At an altitude of 400 meters, this picturesque mountain village is an authentic slice of Turkish culture and rural life. Islamlar is like a time warp into a pastoral golden age. Surprising, since the bustle of Kalkan and the coast is a mere 15 minute drive away. It’s cooler here, more breezy and tranquil. Clear mountain springs and streams trickle along, watering lush vineyards and feeding trout pools. You’ll notice the mulberry groves too; remnants of the silk trade, worked by Greek and Turkish inhabitants during the Ottoman empire. Shepherds graze their sheep and goats among the olive groves, while village ladies tend their gardens in big, patterned shalvar trousers. When we say everything is home grown and charmingly old-fashioned here, we aren’t exaggerating. The village mill still uses a water-powered millstones to ground the flour. And the local Tahini, a taste to die for when mixed with the local molasses, is similarly produced.

Islamlar was once called Bodamya. That changed after the population exchange of 1923, which saw all the Greek inhabitants immigrate to Attica. Today this area is best known for its trout farm restaurants which serve up fresh fish and delicious traditional dishes. It’s al-fresco dining in the clear mountain air, with spectacular views. The Lycian way runs through here, which also makes the village a first choice with walkers and trekkers.

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