Hot Water and Mud in Dalaman
The traditions of communal bathing and the geological features around Dalaman go hand in hand to create two special phenomena that are proving a hit with visitors to this part of Turkey.
The Koycegiz Lake is to the north of Dalaman and hot spring water filters up through the rocks into the surrounding water table, providing a supposedly health giving bathing opportunity. The southern end of the lake empties into the Dalyan river, which runs down to the Mediterranean. there are two spa establishments along this stretch of water, one at Riza Cavus with a spring pool and mud bath and another at Velibey. Both locations are well setup for visitors and can cater for up to 1000 per day. The spring waters and mud are said to be very good for rheumatism and for helping with skin conditions, but many will just enjoy the strange sensation of covering themselves with warm mud, which does smell slightly off-putting we have to say.
The usual procedure is to allow the mud to completely dry in the sun, allowing it to works its wonders, before washing off with cold water, followed by an optional warm sulphur water bath and second wash.
There are many boat trips that include a trip to the baths as part of an itinerary which also has at stop at the huge Iztuzu beach. This beach is a long sandbar that stretches across the end of the Dalyan river mouth and is only accessible by boat save for a small track at one end. It is such a long beach that despite the numerous boat trip stopoffs, there is always plenty of room for everyone.
