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 Sarıgerme

Sarıgerme, with its close proximity to Dalaman International Airport and with more and more modern accommodation facilities being built, has found itself as a centre of tourism in a region fast becoming internationally popular. The interaction of pine trees and the coast of Sarıgerme, with its fine sand against the backdrop of beautiful pine trees, has continued for centuries. It is the site of the ancient city of Physilis. This city is now buried under the shifting sand. As a result of tourism development carried out before excavations and the construction of hotels in the region the history of Physilis is to remain under the sands of Sarıgerme. Sarıgerme is the name given to the coast near the village of Osmaniye, 850 metres inland from the shore. The name Sarıgerme is linked to the Sarıçay Stream that divides Osmaniye and the coast. The Sarıçay was once used as the transportation route for timber that was brought from the forest to the sea. To prevent the timber from escaping into the sea the stream’s outlet into the ocean was closed during times of timber transportation. Thus the name ‘Germe’, which means tightening or fencing.

Sarıgerme, with its seven kilometres of coastline, shallow sea and the island of Babaada not too far in the distance, is truly a perfect holiday haven. Up until recently the coast was a very messy place that has since been cleaned and cleared by an environmental association of the region. Services such as food and drink outlets, showers, toilets, beach chairs, umbrellas and dressing cabins, as well as a dinghy service across the water to Osmaniye, are all available. Therefore, all services required by the luxury hotels being supplied by the village of Osmaniye are also being supplied to the small motels and pensions as well. There is a small charge at the entrance, which goes towards the upkeep and services for the beach. The island of Babaada, situated right off the coast, is the place where boats and yachts plying between Marmaris and Göcek moor regularly. The sheltered side of the island, which looks directly at Sarıgerme, is used to moor the boats and yachts. The other face of the island is rocky and most suitable for diving. If you are confident it is possible to swim to the island and later climb to the top and have a bird’s eye view of the beautiful scenery surrounding you. One can also take long walks along the coast. Do not think that your feet would burn or get hurt due to the heat as the water comes up to your ankles and the fine sand makes the walk most comfortable, and has a massaging effect relaxing the muscles and also strengthening them.