Bodrum Peninsula National Park

Bodrum Peninsula National Park

Bodrum Peninsula National Park offers a diverse coastal landscape with rich Mediterranean ecosystems, historic ruins, and vibrant marine environments, making it a prime destination for hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural exploration.

23,000
Acres Protected
45
Miles of Trails
300,000
Annual Visitors
1996
Year Established

About Bodrum Peninsula National Park

Bodrum Peninsula National Park
 

Located in the southwestern Aegean region of Turkey, Bodrum Peninsula National Park encompasses a striking blend of rugged coastline, pine-covered hills, and clear turquoise waters. The park protects a section of the Bodrum Peninsula, which is renowned for its combination of natural beauty and historical significance, including ancient ruins from the Carian, Greek, and Ottoman periods. The Mediterranean climate supports a variety of plant species such as maquis shrubland and endemic wildflowers, while the park’s marine zones are home to diverse fish populations and sea turtles. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through fragrant pine forests and offer expansive views of the Aegean Sea. The park also protects many important archaeological sites, including remnants of the ancient city of Halicarnassus and several Byzantine-era landmarks. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy activities like snorkeling, mountain biking, and bird watching, particularly during the migratory seasons when many bird species pass through the area. The Bodrum Peninsula’s unique combination of cultural heritage, natural ecosystems, and coastal scenery draws both local and international visitors year-round. Conservation efforts focus on protecting marine habitats, preserving native plant species, and maintaining the integrity of archaeological sites. The park provides a mix of developed and primitive recreational areas, with access points from nearby Bodrum town and smaller coastal villages.

Highlights

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Ancient ruins of Halicarnassus, including remnants of the Mausoleum of Mausolus

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Crystalline coves and beaches ideal for swimming and snorkeling

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Diverse Mediterranean maquis vegetation and endemic wildflowers

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Secluded hiking trails with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea

Notable Natural Features

Mausoleum of Halicarnassus Ruins

The archaeological remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, located near Bodrum town.

Camel Beach

A beautiful sandy beach backed by dunes and pine forest, popular for swimming and sunbathing.

Bodrum Castle

A 15th-century fortification overlooking the harbor, housing the Museum of Underwater Archaeology.