Kalkan, the Turkish town on the Turquoise coast, has become one of the country’s most sought-after resorts, both with tourists who want to visit a vibrant, busy beachside location with a rich cultural heritage, and with buyers looking to settle down in a warm climate.
Much of Kalkan's charm lies in its history as a picturesque town that was once a trading port. It has transformed over the years into an upmarket holiday destination, but one that offers a bustling and well-preserved Old Quarter that retains the beauty of days gone by.
The Turkish real estate specialists at Property Turkey share some insights into the Kalkan property market and explain why homes for sale within the Old Quarter always attract strong demand.
The Background and History of Kalkan’s Old Quarter
Like many of the cities, towns and villages along the coast, Kalkan was originally a working port but became overlooked for the larger Fethiye and Antalya when the first road that linked all the coastal towns together was opened in the 1960s.
While many local people and businesses took the opportunity to relocate, the fortunes of Kalkan changed dramatically when wealthy yachting enthusiasts recognised the sheer magnificence of the beach and bay, offset by the towering Taurus Mountains behind.
In 1984, the authorities finally paved the road from Fethiye, which saw the first influxes of tourists arrive to soak in the architecture, explore the narrow alleyways, and experience the authentically traditional whitewashed houses, many decorated with bougainvillaea.
History is everywhere you look, and although the Old Quarter is now packed with art galleries and luxury boutiques, the wooden balconies and cobbled lanes haven’t changed, with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that means new residents and visitors are equally welcomed.
Buying a home in the heart of the town is a popular aspiration, with the historic district close to all the amenities, within a short distance of the harbour and marina, and attracting premium rental incomes for buyers who choose to let out their homes as holiday properties.
The Mediterranean weather adds to the attraction of Kalkan, with long summers when the temperatures are hot and the air dry, and cooler, short winters.
This augments the size of the tourism market, with a growing number of travellers heading to Kalkan in the early summer in May and June before the weather reaches its peak or taking advantage of the quieter travel periods in September and October.
Types of Properties Available to Buy in Historic Kalkan
Kalkan has numerous traditional stone houses, which are refurbished to immaculate condition, with walls and doorways that have stood for generations – a testament to the skill with which they were first constructed!
These properties often have natural stonework, high ceilings supported by beams and a unique sense of character. Many also have spacious gardens or balconies, which promise a wonderful view of the harbour.
Alternatively, if you're passionate about original architecture, you might like to view the 'sugar cube' white houses, most with quaint roof terraces. These smaller cottage-style homes, also centuries-old, are tucked into the hillside in the best possible position to enjoy panoramic vistas over the Old Quarter and out towards the sea.
Here at Property Turkey, we also have several listings within Kalkan that are attracting enormous amounts of interest, including a rare opportunity to buy a Cappadocia stone villa that offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms and an exquisite private pool.
Located just 700 metres from the marina, the property comes with mature gardens, a modernised, fully fitted kitchen, en-suite bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs, a first-floor terrace with unbeatable views, and high-quality wood and marble flooring.
Buyers who have fallen in love with Kalkan and adore the heritage and culture, but who’d prefer to live somewhere a little more peaceful, may be interested in exploring a fantastic piece of farmland with three on-site bungalows.
Only nine miles from Kalkan, the plot boasts stunning sea views, established walnut and fruit trees, natural streams, and three properties. Each bungalow features a private pool and landscaped garden, making it an ideal setting for a multigenerational family, a tranquil retreat, or a boutique resort.
Advice From the Turkish Real Estate Experts on Investing in a Kalkan Property
Part of Kalkan’s appeal is its status as a premium holiday destination, which means a proportion of buyers either purchase homes to expand their rental portfolios or use holiday homes as rental assets during periods when they aren't in residence.
There is a considerable contrast between an original, historic property in the Old Quarter and a modern, contemporary villa, but steady demand for both types of rental, especially from those keen to stay in a central location within a stroll of the beach and nightlife.
The Old Quarter can also be a perfect option for buyers who want an accessible property or to be able to advertise a rental home as being suited to visitors with limited mobility. Kalkan’s layout, built into the hillside and with its steep alleys, can be less inviting for those who are not able to navigate inclines, which means being in the old town within proximity of shops and restaurants may be a priority.
It may be tricky to balance your personal preferences with the aspects of your property that will command a reliable rental income, but we'd advise visiting any real estate you wish to buy alongside one of our knowledgeable local agents to ensure you have all the information you require.
Our teams can also recommend specific listings that are ideal investment projects, homes with ample renovation potential and resale value, or apartments that are already ready to let and could be advertised immediately once your transaction completes.
For more details about the specific properties we’ve mentioned, or to browse other Kalkan real estate for sale, you are welcome to get in touch or view galleries and property particulars through the Property Turkey website.
Read more about Property Turkey – Buying a Coastal Apartment in Calis Beach, Turkey's Expat Hotspot
About Property Turkey:
With 20+ years experience in the Turkish real estate market, team Property Turkey are your experienced, friendly and independent overseas real estate consultants. Our head office is located in London, UK with regional operational offices in: Bodrum, Fethiye & Kalkan, Antalya and Istanbul.
