Kas-The Divers Paradise on the south coast of Turkey

Delightfully situated among towering vertical cliffs, Kas is the region’s second major resort, and although lacking in idyllic stretches of beach, the dramatic rocky coastline creates easy access to clear and unpolluted Mediterranean waters; and an abundance of outdoor activities, and a lively nightlife have maintained its reputation as a satisfying holiday destination. It is the centre for glass-bottomed boat trips to the sunken cities around Kekova Island from where remains of mysterious civilisations can be viewed just below the surface of the water, and visits can be arranged to the surrounding archaeological sites at Demre, Myra and the Xanthos Valley. The town is built around the remains of ancient Antiphellos, and there are ruins of a Hellenistic theatre, the monumental Lion Tomb, and some hillside rock tombs in and around the town. Despite the tourist development of what was once a simple fishing village, Kas still preserves its small-town charm, with narrow cobbled streets and novel boutique shops.

You may also make a boat tour from Kas to the Greek island of Meis (Kastellorizo). The closest airports are Antalya and Dalaman, each located over three hours from Kas. There are long distance coach connections to Kas, via Antalya or sometimes direct.

History of Kas. Habesos is the earliest known name of the ancient city, as proved from archaeological findings. But the name Antiphellos is far more familiar, and this was the harbor of ancient Phellos. Excavations here have revealed a settlement dating back to the4th century BC, possibly earlier, although it reached its height of importance during the Roman and Byzantine periods, when it was a center for Bishops. It had also been significant in the world of sea-faring commerce, and during the Roman era was especially famous for its exported sponges. It was attacked by Arabs, then added to the territory of the Anatolian Seljuks, and took the name Andifli. After the destruction of the Anatolian Seljuk state, the Ottomans added it to its lands. The name Kas means 'eyebrow', or 'something curved', describing the shape of the town under the backdrop of 500m high cliffs behind. A well-preserved ancient theater is most of what is left from the ancient city of Antiphellus. There are also a few rock tombs above the town carved into the steep cliffs.

Climate: Summers are hot and dry in Kas, quite typical of Mediterranean region, and can reach around 35 degrees during the day. Winters are warm during the day although can get cool at night, and can drop below 10 degrees.