The secluded island of Cleopatra is just 30 minutes from Marmaris and it is a beautiful location, perfect for a day of relaxing in the sun. The island lies directly north of Marmaris in the Gulf of Gökova, just off the northern coast of the peninsula. If you want to make a day of it, rather than drive, you could take one of the boat tours there. Trips are available from Marmaris and these offer fantastic views of the coastline along the way and stop off once or twice for swimming breaks. Alternatively get the boat from the nearby harbour at Çamli and make the short journey across the water.
According to ancient history the island was once the meeting place of Queen Cleopatra and her lover Mark Anthony. It is said that Mark Anthony ordered shiploads of white sand to be brought from Egypt to the island in order to create Cleopatra her own paradise island. It was also believed by some that the sand was self perpetuating.
In reality the sand is made up from tiny seashells and fossils which took millions of years to form, making this island incredibly unique, with no other sand in the world being the same. The beach is under government conservation because of the uniqueness of the sand and it is forbidden to remove any of it from the island!
The area is covered with lovely pine trees, so take a walk away from the beach and the turquoise waters, through the trees in search of ancient ruins. Cleopatra Island is home to an amphitheatre, temple, agora and crumbling ruins of city walls remaining from the ancient city of Cedrae which dates back to the Roman rule.
Stay in a lovely property in a peaceful spot near Marmaris and discover the stunning coast and excellent history for yourself. Find out how by following the link below.
