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Manavgat
Manavgat is a busy town and district situated In the
Antalya Province of Turkey and approximately 70 kilometres from Antalya
airport. The Taurus Mountains are north of the town with the
Mediterranean coastline to the south. Most of the surrounding area is
flat with much of it developed for agriculture.
The climate of Manavgat is typically Mediterranean with hot dry summers
and mild winters. July and August are the hottest months with
temperatures averaging 28-30 degrees centigrade although this can be
significantly higher. January and February are the coldest months but
temperatures seldom drop below 10 degrees. December and January are the
wettest months although heavy rainfall can occur at other times.
The district of Manavgat is irrigated by the Manavgat River which
originates from the Taurus Mountains. The river then flows southwards
over the Manavgat waterfall towards the Mediterranean Sea. Two dams have
been built on the river. They are The Oymapinar Dam built in 1984 for
generating hydroelectric power and the older and smaller Manavgat dam
built much earlier.
Tourism is important in the area with increasing numbers of people
visiting Manavgat every year. With many places to explore and nearby
historical sites like Side old town, it makes an ideal holiday
destination.
What was once a very traditional and unadventurous town, Manavgat has
changed over recent years. With increased tourism, there are a growing
number of local shops and restaurants in the town and an increase in the
number of hotels and holiday accommodation in the surrounding area.
Shown below is one of the major road junctions in the
town of Manavgat. This is normally a very busy junction but the photo
was taken during one of the quiet periods. In the background is a
fountain and a seating area. It is is very pleasant, especially in the
summer months, with a good view of the town below. There is also a small
cafe where you can buy drinks and snacks and sit and watch the world go
by.
One of the main attractions of the town is Manavgat waterfall. Situated
a few kilometres north of the town, the waterfall although only a few
metres high, can produce a good frothy water spectacle for visitors
across its wide riverbed. There are some nearby shops and several cafes
and restaurants where you can have a meal or a drink. However, be
prepared to pay tourist prices.
If you want to explore a bit further, you will find
Little Waterfall (Küçük Selale) about 1km north of Manavgat Falls. It is
smaller and less noisy and has its own individual charm.
There are also daily cruises you can enjoy along the Manavgat river.
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