How many bays across the globe offer the unique experience of swimming amidst the remnants of ancient baths and monasteries? The mere notion that the renowned Egyptian Queen Cleopatra herself constructed that bathhouse adds to the bay's exceptional allure. This is precisely what renders Hamam Bay extraordinarily special, immensely valuable, and a destination deserving immediate exploration.
Upon your arrival in Gocek, you'll encounter numerous must-see places that Mother Nature has generously bestowed upon this region. Every step you take unfolds a new beauty, and among these treasures is Cleopatra Hamam Bay. Yes, it's named after the renowned Cleopatra, known to all the beloved of Roman Emperor Julius Caesar, the wife of Marcus Antonius, and the illustrious queen of Egypt, a figure immortalized in Hollywood movies.
Situated approximately 10 kilometers from Gocek's center, Cleopatra Bath Bay captivates visitors with its turquoise sea, lush forested landscapes, and historical ruins both submerged in the sea and on the ground. Legend has it that during her visit to the Mediterranean coast, Cleopatra discovered a hot spring in this bay and commissioned the construction of a bathhouse. The belief persists that the water from this bath had skin-healing properties, contributing to Cleopatra's renowned beauty that stirred envy worldwide. Some claim that the source of the hot water and beneficial minerals for the skin originates from a nearby volcanic mountain, although there is no known extinct volcano in the immediate vicinity, at least to our knowledge. But still, if you look down through the ruins in the sea in the early morning, you can see the sands moving due to the water current coming from below.
Hamam Bay is also ideal for diving and snorkeling
The hot water source in Cleopatra Hamam Bay, highly esteemed in antiquity, likely depleted long ago. Subsequently, rainwater was directed to the baths through funnels, where it was heated and continued to function as a bath. In close proximity, there is also a Byzantine monastery. Over time, seismic activities have left both structures in a state of ruin, with roughly half of them submerged in the sea. Stones from the ruins are scattered on the sea floor. Thanks to these stones, the water has a perfect turquoise color and the variety of living creatures is very rich. This is why Hamam Bay is also a favorite stop for those who want to dive and snorkel.
Have sea shoes with you when you go to Hamam Bay
The water between the ruins is no more than a foot deep. But one side of Hamam Bay is quite deep. There are sharp stones among the stones. For this reason, it is useful to have your sea shoes with you.
Transportation to Hamam Bay
To reach Cleopatra Bath Bay, situated south of the picturesque
Sarsala Bay in Gocek, one must opt for a boat tour or rent a yacht. Upon reaching Hamam Bay, it's recommended to disembark and explore the surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll, ascend the hill to the ancient city of Arymaxa, and enjoy panoramic views of Gokgemile and Cleopatra Bath Bay from an elevated vantage point. While hiking, seize the opportunity to pluck carob berries from the trees, enhancing the flavor of your trek.
It is not possible to reach Hamam Bay by road other than the sea route, but if you want to do trekking, you can reach the bay with a difficult walk of about 2 hours from Sarsala Bay.