I hiked in the summer heat to Dalaman Stream — a hidden gem in Turkey where adventure, nature and unforgettable views made the journey worthwhile.
Getting restless
Day 2 by the pool was pleasant, but by lunchtime I was getting restless. I saw that Dalaman Stream is nearby and according to Google Maps, it’s at a walkable distance. I was thinking about it all the time, so I decided to hit the road shortly after lunch time (in the biggest heat!).
The hot hike
The walk was about 5 kilometres, which is not a lot, but in the scorching heat of the Southern Türkiye’s summer was quite a mission. There was no pavement – just a yellow line separating the road from the place where I was walking. Yes, it was dangerous and reckless! Yes, I shouldn’t have done this! But I kept walking and running. I wanted to see the stream, I wanted to explore. A car and a female moped driver stopped to ask me if I wanted a lift. I declined, but I was really touched by the kindness of the local people.
I kept walking, running, sweating, trying to be as far from the road as possible. I was making sure I was visible at all times and I would pull to the side and stop if I thought the oncoming vehicle was too big or was driving too fast.
Dalaman Stream
After about 40-45 minutes I made it to the bridge leading to Fevziye – and there it was – the Dalaman Stream. I was so proud of myself! The stunning views were the best rewards for my effort. Clean water, cliffs, hills and bushes. I walked along the stream and I was even tempted to walk the 6 kilometres to Blue Thermal, but when a lorry came up the narrow road I was supposed to go on, I decided that I will come back with a vehicle once I get my drivers licence in the UK.
I had a brief walk in Fevziye – a small and quiet village. I found a bus stop, but something was telling me that the next bus was not going to be coming any time soon. It was getting far too hot and there wasn’t too much shade. There was no way to escape the heat, so I had to go back to the hotel.
The way back seemed quicker – probably because I knew what to expect. I went back to the hotel, had a shower, sweet snacks, a swim and a cup of tea, and I quickly recovered from what I was suspecting to be a slight overheating.
The local restaurant
For dinner, I visited Yudum Yiğit Restaurant where I met the most dedicated, hard-working and attentive young man I have ever known! I don’t know if he was the son of the owners or an employee, but I have never seen anyone put so much effort into his work. I had the best lamb shish I have ever tried, but to me what made my dinner unforgettable was the level of customer service I received.
I wanted to order tea (yes, since I am in Dalamn, I drink about 6 Turkish teas a day!), but the young man informed me they had none. I said that was fine. Then I got complimentary water. After I had my meal, he served me freshly made Turkish coffee. This was also the first time I tried Turkish coffee, and it was a delight! I already left a Google review about my experience in Yudum Yiğit Restaurant, because I believe that good work must be acknowledged and celebrated.
One more night before I head home. I enjoy this trip and I am a bit sad it’s coming to an end, but at the same time I am beyond excited to go home and see Stitch!
