The Village With No Roads (And The Best Ice Cream in Turkey)
In a world where you can drive almost anywhere, there is still a tiny spot on the Turkish coast where Google Maps will tell you:
"Route not found."
Welcome to Simena, locally known as Kaleköy.
Located in the Kekova region, sitting right across from the famous Sunken City, Simena is a place that refuses to modernize. There are no cars here. No scooters. No traffic lights. Just a maze of stone staircases, bougainvillea flowers, and the smell of wild thyme.
Getting There is Half the Adventure You cannot drive to Simena. You have to arrive the way people have arrived for 2,000 years: By sea. Whether you are on a private gulet charter or a small boat from Kaş, the approach is magical. As you get closer, you see a medieval castle perched on top of the hill, watching over a cluster of stone houses that tumble down to the water's edge.
The "Iconic" Photo As your boat docks at the wooden pier, look to your left. You will see something strange: A massive Lycian stone sarcophagus (tomb) standing right in the middle of the sea. It is one of the most photographed spots in Turkey. It’s a silent reminder that sea levels have risen over the centuries, claiming parts of the ancient city.
The Climb (and the Reward) Once you step ashore, the only way is up. The "streets" are actually ancient, steep staircases. Yes, it is a bit of a workout. But halfway up, you will encounter the village’s sweetest secret: The Ice Cream Grandmas.
Local women sell homemade ice cream made from goat’s milk right in front of their homes. Peach, almond, lemon... it is widely considered the best ice cream on the coast.
Our tip: Try the almond (badem) flavor. It is life-changing.
The View from the Castle If you make it to the top (the Castle), you are rewarded with what might be the best panoramic view of the Mediterranean. You can see the entire Kekova island, the sunken ruins, and the endless turquoise maze of bays.
Why You Must Go Simena is not just a stop; it is a time machine. It is a place where life moves at the speed of a walking pace. Eating a fresh sea bass by the water, watching the sunset over the sunken tomb, and listening to... absolutely no traffic.
This is the true luxury of the Turquoise Coast.