Turkey

While the majority of visitors flock here for the sublime Aegean and Mediterranean beaches, there is so much more to discover here. The extraordinary number of ancient Civilisations: Romans, Ottomans, Byzantines, Greeks, each have each left an indelible mark on the landscapes. Istanbul continues to be a multi-cultural delight, begun long ago by its position on the Silk Route and the traders who liked it so much, they stayed.

The spectacular archaeological remains of temples, cities and harbours sit glittering on their UNESCO World Heritage lists; think romantic Byzantine churches, Ottoman Mosques and Roman aqueducts and the beautiful classical cities of Ephesus or Pergamon. Or discover the myriad of landscapes; from fairy-tale Cappadocia, with its magical valleys and rock formations, to olive groves fringing the Aegean, to mountain-ringed lakes, to the jutting peninsulas of the coast and the sparkling Mediterranean views.

This backdrop is the perfect starting point for the myriad of activities on offer here. Blessed with a coastline that borders the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, it’s all on offer, from diving to sea kayaking to kite and windsurfing in the turquoise seas. Moving inland, the terrain is perfect for activity adventures; think white water rafting, horse riding, mountain biking, paragliding or even hot air ballooning over the otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia.

Turkey offers excellent value in money compared with many of the traditional ‘fly and flop’ beach destinations. Combine this with the eclectic history, culture, landscapes and the warm hospitality that has been issued to weary travellers across centuries and you have the kind of holiday that leaves you enriched, restored and wondering why you haven’t been before.