Mazi

The basics

Mazı—a picturesque Aegean coast village that's a short drive east of Bodrum—has a handful of guesthouses, making it the perfect spot to escape from it all and experience traditional Turkish life. With its idyllic seaside location, Mazi lends itself well to taking refreshing swims, and even in summer its beaches are relatively uncrowded. You'll find numerous hidden bays along the coast, with clear blue waters and sandy shores. The area is popular amongst yacht charters.

Things to know before you go

• The best views in this quaint village, largely untouched by tourism, are over the Gulf of Gokova into the Aegean Sea.

• The secluded cove at Cakilliyali Bay contains a hidden shore where you can make the most of the turquoise blue sea. It's perfect for a dip to cool off in the summer heat.

• Sample mezes made with freshly caught seafood, locally produced olive oil, and fresh vegetables at the village's restaurants.

How to get there

Mazi is about a 45-minute drive from Bodrum. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a car from Bodrum to access Mazi via the Bodrum Guvercinlik Yenikoy and Mazi village road, or the Bodrum Yaliciftlik road. A public bus operates from Bodrum, or you can take a guided tour with transportation included to Mazi.

When to get there

If you love the sun and the beach, then summer is the ideal time to visit Mazi. The weather is hot, and the water is warm, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. However, if you're looking for a more peaceful and tranquil experience, spring and autumn can be great choices; the crowds are thinner, the sights are more serene, and the temperatures still average around 70°F (21°C).

Specialty foods to try

Mazi’s landscape is dotted with rows of terraced olive groves and apiaries. As a fertile agricultural region, it produces wonderful specialty foods. Be sure to keep an eye out for roadside food stalls, where farmers sell everything from pine honey to olives to fresh fruit.