Sigacik Harbour

Sigacik Harbour

The small gulf of Sýðacýk on the shore of the peninsula south of Ýzmir was described by the famous 16th century Turkish navigator and cartographer Piri Reis as ‘an anchorage with water like yufka’, in other words waters as soft and calm as the paper thin pastry, yufka. Ancient seafarers discovered this hospitable shelter from storms 3000 years ago.
Sýðacýk lies between the headlands of Doðanbey Burnu and Teke Burnu. Its shores have been home to many of the peoples who made their home in Asia Minor, bringing their rich array of cultures, and the inhabitants of this region were aptly described by the ancient Egyptians as ‘the people who live in the heart of the sea’. Today Sýðacýk is a magnet for windsurfers, sailors and, less predictably, rock climbers attracted by the challenge of towering cliffs on a small island.
To get there from Ýzmir or Kuþadasý head for Seferihisar, and then follow the signs to Teos and Sýðacýk. The road leads through tangerine orchards until you reach the coast for your first spectacular view of Sýðacýk, with its calm bay, tiny castle at whose foot are moored colourful fishing boats, and the delicious fragrance of grilling fish filling the air.