Dalyan riverboat tour with lunch and Iztuzu Beach visit

Surrounding yourself with natural beauty on a river cruise from Dalyan is a great way to unwind. One of Turkey's most pristine beaches is the destination, with stops at mud baths and a riverside restaurant en route. Ceren, one of our local guides, says, "Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach because endangered loggerhead turtles nest here. It's a magical spot with very little human interference. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but luckily conservation was prioritised."

Sail down the Dalyan River on an eco-friendly boat – which doesn't harm marine life – and have fun smoothing on the anti-ageing clay at the mud baths. It's great for glowing skin, and it's believed that Cleopatra visited for a pampering soak in the mineral-rich liquid mud. Finish with a dip in the warm sulphur pool before gliding across the river for a freshly prepared lunch of local dishes. You'll then add a little history and culture to the mix, as you continue on the riverboat past Lycian Rock Tombs – dating back to 400BC – carved into the cliffs.

As the river widens into a lagoon, you'll have the chance to spot birdlife before docking at Iztuzu Beach. This four-kilometre-long sweep of golden sand divides the river from the sea, a natural oasis that's a true haven for wildlife. Sheltered by mountains, the beach shelves gently into a calm bay, where an afternoon of pure relaxation beckons. Round off your day with the return relaxing river cruise to Dalyan.

The itinerary for this experience is...

- 7:45am to 8:30am – pick-up from your hotel

- 8:30am to 9:30am – travel to Dalyan

- 9:45am to 10:00am – river boat ride to mud baths and sulphur pool

- 10:00am to 11:30am – free time at the mud baths

- 11:30am to 11:45am – another short boat ride back to the other side of the river

- 11:45am to 12:45pm – lunch at Paradise Restaurant (drinks cost extra)

- 12:45pm to 1:45pm – river boat ride to Turtle Beach

- 1:45pm to 3:00pm – free time at Turtle Beach

- 3:00pm to 3:45pm – river boat ride back to Dalyan

- 5:15pm to 5:30pm – arrive back at your accommodation

Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day