Izmir – Bike ride along the bay to the harbour
- Written by Portal Editor
Izmir – After the "Travel Turkey" tourism fair in Izmir, we parked our "trade fair" caravan at the campsite in Güzelbahce. It is a small site on the Bay of Izmir best described as garden-like, with plenty of dogs, cats, and chickens. A sort of hippie village has developed here, as some residents of the wooden cabins and caravans live on the site year-round.
Glorious weather lured us outdoors this Sunday; we decided on a bike ride along the bay towards Çesme. We took frequent breaks to snap photos and soak up the sunshine.
Wonderfully clear water is one of the highlights of the beach promenade at Güzelbahce, an area still frequented by many fishermen in their small boats.
Since the promenade attracts many strollers, one lady set up a stall for her handicrafts right by the water's edge. This allowed her to combine the beautiful weather and sea view with her side business and even sell a piece or two.
A short while later, we reached the famous fish markets of Güzelbahce, a popular destination for day-trippers. Here, you can buy fish that is truly fresh from the catch and—thanks to the friendly fishmongers take it home already gutted and cleaned.
Mmm, the presentation looks delicious, and the food tastes just as good. We visited these market stalls several times during our stays in Izmir and were able to see the quality of the goods for ourselves: truly fresh fish, day after day.
The adjacent harbour, filled with colourful fishing boats, lies right next to the market halls. Isn't it a glorious day? And in December, no less!
The neighbouring vendor also displays a wide range of products, offering something to suit every taste. And he knows the quality of his wares. His facial expression alone is convincing, isn't it? No wonder customers are lining up by the minute.
Here, the fish selected by the customer are gutted and cleaned right before their eyes. There is a good reason for this, as it is quite common in Güzelbahce to pick out your own fish and then choose the restaurant where you want it prepared.
This could be as shown in the picture a small fish snack bar that receives the fish already gutted and filleted from the fishmonger, or...
...an upscale gourmet restaurant on the other side of the fish halls, which is also supplied by the market stalls. The guest selects the fish and then decides on the method of preparation at the restaurant. A different kind of fish experience.
Now in December, they are quiet, though in summer they are practically overrun by tourists: the beach sections near Güzelbahce invite you not only to cycle and take walks...
..., but the promenade also caters to other fitness needs. And you might be surprised to see the equipment being used frequently by people of all backgrounds and ages.
We were particularly taken with one of the small cabins at the campsite near Izmir. Two rooms are enough, since life takes place almost entirely outdoors. Sleeping upstairs, eating and cooking downstairs.
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