Demre villa rental

Demre sits between Kaş and Finike on the Lycian coast. Its ancient name was Myra, one of the six great cities of Lycia, and the rock-cut tombs and Roman theatre still stand just above the modern town. It is a farming district rather than a resort — the plain is covered in greenhouses — which means the villa inventory is small and scattered, but also that prices stay below the neighbouring coastal districts. Two things bring visitors: the church of St Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop behind the Santa Claus tradition, and Kekova, the partly sunken Lycian settlement reached by boat from the ancient harbour at Andriake.

Where to stay in Demre

When to go

April and May are best for the ancient sites, before the heat sets in. June to September is the swimming season and boats to Kekova run regularly. October and November stay mild and quiet.

Getting there

Antalya (AYT) via the D400 coast road; Kaş is a short drive west. Boats to Kekova leave from Çayağzı harbour, and it is also possible to drive round to Üçağız.

Local tips

• Demre is not a beach town — most visitors take a boat trip rather than swim from the shore.
• Myra and the church get very hot at midday in summer; go early morning or late afternoon.
• The inventory is small, so summer options run out early. Look well ahead.