The mud baths in Dalyan are undoubtedly a surprising option for those spending a few days on the Turquoise Coast. In other posts we have already discussed its historical and scenic attractions, with the Lycian tombs and the island of Kekova at the top of the list. But a route or even a cruise around the area can be rounded off with this unforgettable experience. We explain it below.
Where Dalyan and the baths are
Dalyan is a village located on the Turquoise Coast, in a privileged setting: on the banks of the river that bears its name, between Fethiye and Marmaris, one hour and one and a half hours away from them, respectively. Its surroundings are green and rugged, which adds a picturesque touch to the atmosphere and, moreover, it is protected as a conservation area for loggerhead sea turtles, an endangered species.
As for the mud baths in Dalyan, there are several locations with this type of pool. But they all have one thing in common: they are hidden away and secluded, not too far from the town centre but difficult to reach, as the road does not go all the way there. Some are on the riverbank itself, while others are on Lake Koycegiz, the body of water where the Dalyan River originates.
What the mud baths in Dalyan involve
The mud-bathing activity in Dalyan is no coincidence, but rather a tradition: its pools are filled with this mud, “watered” with the waters from the Sultaniye hot springs, which emerge hot at around 39°C. These waters also have a distinctive mineral composition, meaning the mud used in the baths is rich in minerals as well.
These hot springs were already known in Antiquity, and were probably used by the inhabitants of Kauno (a city of which, incidentally, significant archaeological remains can still be found in the area). And they have certainly been enjoyed in recent times by major international celebrities such as David Bowie and Jack Nicholson, according to the pool owners.
In these pools, visitors do not fully submerge their bodies, as they can stand, but it is customary to cover the entire body with this mud, including the face, taking care that it does not come into contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes. These muds, rich in chloride, sodium, bromide, and hydrogen sulphide, are attributed therapeutic effects for back problems such as sciatica, joint issues such as rheumatism, and even stomach ailments, in addition to their benefits for the skin.
How to get to the mud baths
Getting to the mud baths in Dalyan is not easy, due to the aforementioned lack of roads in the immediate surroundings. And since this is a protected area, it is expected that no major infrastructure will be built, understandably.
Therefore, the most feasible option for accessing these pools is by boat: via small vessels, often gulets, so common in the area, it is possible to reach these baths directly, as they have jetties for mooring. Both the Dalyan River and Lake Koycegiz are navigable, and the town of Dalyan in turn has numerous piers along its lovely riverside promenade.
Therefore, if you would like to get covered in this famous mud and enjoy a spa experience at these mud baths in Dalyan, you can let our travel agents know so that we can organise all the logistics: from the gulet cruise to access to the facilities, as well as activities of interest in the area, such as visits to Lycian archaeological sites, relaxation on charming beaches, etc.
