Most of the 13 million foreigners who visit Antalya, a popular Turkish resort, are content to stay within its borders, enjoying the sunshine and possibly even getting a hair transplant. However, there is a world beyond Antalya that remains unexplored by the majority of tourists. This world consists of stunning landscapes and ancient ruins, where wolves roam and elderly women wearing headscarves work the land with hand tools. Few people dare to venture into this territory, especially on a bicycle.
Fortunately, The Slow Cyclist offers a unique group tour called Hidden Anatolia that allows visitors to experience this breathtaking scenery without the physical exertion. The name of the company may not give it away, but the low hum emitted by the electric bikes we ride certainly does. Our group of ten seniors effortlessly cruises through the hilly terrain of the Taurus Mountains, thanks to the assistance provided by our electric bikes.
Riding a bike is the perfect way to immerse oneself in the environment – you can see, hear, and smell everything up close. With an e-bike, this experience is accessible to everyone, even those who might not be keen on physically challenging holidays or may have physical limitations. Our hybrid bikes offer three levels of assistance, indicated by a series of beeps that resonate throughout our group whenever the road inclines. The “Eco” mode makes me feel half my age, while the two higher levels, “Boost”, make me feel like a supremely talented endurance cyclist.
The group rides through the pine forests of the Taurus Mountains with ease as we make our way to Kesme. Cycling with an electric bike feels surreptitious and incredibly enticing, like having a personal tailwind. At the end of our longest day, covering 70km with regular stops for sightseeing and refreshments, my legs feel pleasantly exercised, and I’ve built up a healthy appetite instead of being in a calorie deficit. It’s a novelty for seasoned cyclists like myself to be able to enjoy meals in moderation rather than devouring food with a sense of urgency.
Our journey takes us to Pisidia, an ancient region with a rich history. Despite its past glory, Pisidia now consists of sparsely populated orchards and villages tucked away in seclusion. As cyclists, we hardly encounter any cars, and instead, our guides warn us of animals we may encounter on the road. We have the opportunity to visit dramatic classical sites and experience the breathtaking beauty of the canyons and rock formations in relative solitude. For example, when we explore Sagalassos, a Roman city that was abandoned in the 7th century, we find ourselves guided by the only attendants there – Belgian archaeologists and a small group of local hikers.
At Adada, we leave our bikes behind to explore an ancient temple hidden among overgrown meadows and trees. The sight of Doric columns and other remnants of this Graeco-Roman site mixed with modern-day debris is a stark reminder of the passage of time. Our lead guide, Mert Günal, treats us to a mesmerizing performance on a ney, a flute with a 5,000-year heritage, in the desolate agora.
As we continue our journey, we occasionally have to abandon our bikes and hike to reach remote wonders. This inconvenience does not bother anyone in our group; in fact, it adds to the adventurous spirit of the trip. Our tour avoids traditional accommodation options and instead focuses on homestays, forging connections with local families. The accommodations are comfortable, although sometimes communal, and the meals are a delightful showcase of local produce and culinary traditions. Our hosts take pride in introducing their multi-generational families, sharing stories and serving us dishes that represent their heritage.
Throughout the trip, our guides surprise us with unexpected treats, such as hot coffee after a challenging descent or impromptu walks leading us to extraordinary sights. These surprises add an element of excitement to our adventure, leaving us in awe of the natural and historical wonders we discover.
Ultimately, The Slow Cyclist’s Hidden Anatolia tour allows us to experience the untouched beauty of Turkey’s countryside in a unique and unforgettable way. It is an opportunity to be immersed in nature, history, and local culture while enjoying the convenience of electric bikes. So, if you’re looking for a truly extraordinary adventure, I highly recommend embarking on this journey into the hidden gems of Anatolia.
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