Canoeing in Akçapınar Azmağı offers a delightful experience, paddling along a 12 km route (6 km outbound and 6 km return), which takes approximately 2.5 hours. If needed, you can tether your canoe to a boat for a rest and further enjoyment, all while observing the diverse natural life including fish, birds, ducks, and turtles. This enjoyable, secure, and serene activity transports you into a natural environment reminiscent of the Amazon, providing a rare opportunity to appreciate its beauty among the vast population of the world.
As per the Turkish Language Association, "azmak" can refer to "a tributary of a river or stream." Located just 30 kilometers from Marmaris, the Akyaka and Akçapınar region is renowned for its azmaks. Akçapınar Azmağı stands out among these small rivers, where streams originating from the mountains diverge into numerous branches before merging with the sea. Here, fresh water intermingles with saltwater, creating a picturesque landscape of clear, flowing waters amidst reeds and trees, where ducks and turtles gracefully swim.
In Akçapınar Azmağı, there exists a canoeing route spanning approximately 6 kilometers, typically requiring around two hours to complete. Starting from Akçapınar, the route leads to a natural marvel dubbed the Amazon before circling back to Akçapınar, revealing numerous hidden beauties along the way.
Next to the famous Akçapınar Toast Shop
Commencing from the dock adjacent to Akçapınar Bridge, situated near the renowned Akçapınar Toast Shop, the journey unfolds on single or double canoes. Groups, typically consisting of 5-6 canoes depending on daily turnout, are escorted by a motorized wooden boat for safety and guidance. Should fatigue set in during paddling, participants have the option to tether their canoe to the boat and either continue the excursion aboard the boat or relish the surrounding beauty without paddling. Additionally, cold beverages are available on the boat to enhance the overall experience.
Don't forget to taste the buttermilk and toasts at the toast shop, whose reputation has spread all over Turkey, to gather strength before you start canoeing.
It's like you're in an aquarium
Engaging in this activity entails paddling amidst dense greenery that obscures the sky, providing a workout for your muscles. Amidst the reeds, you encounter various bird species and observe fish and turtles swimming beneath your canoe, resembling an underwater aquarium. You reach out to touch the swaying underwater plants in the clear water, while ducks occasionally glide past. Making a wish at the solitary wishing tree perched on a massive rock, you then cool off with a swim in the refreshing shade of trees at the spot known as the Great Amazon.
You will have plenty of photos
While paddling on the water, you need not concern yourself with capturing unforgettable memories. The boat captains accompanying your canoes are adept at taking numerous photos, including with your phones. With their expertise, they ensure to capture the most picturesque moments, even if a turtle happens to pass by while you're in the canoe.
Mud therapy in Amazon
Upon reaching the Amazon destination along the route, a swimming break awaits. Here, you have the opportunity to indulge in a mud bath by applying the mineral-rich mud found on the ground to your face and neck. This mud is renowned for its skin-nourishing properties.
Beware of historical bridge ruins
Two historical bridges span over Akçapınar Azmağı, constructed for the passage of Suleiman the Magnificent and his army during the Rhodes campaign. Although they are no longer functional, some of these bridges still stand today. Referred to as the "Bridal Prayer Bridge" and the "Bridal Destruction Bridge" by locals, these 500-year-old ruins offer a fascinating sightseeing opportunity while canoeing.
Lovers' Way
Upon arriving at Akçapınar for canoeing, travelers pass through a canopy of towering eucalyptus trees lining the entrance to the town. This road, aptly named "Lovers' Road," boasts a unique backstory. Around 80-90 years ago, parts of the Akçapınar region were plagued by malaria due to swampy terrain caused by azmaks. Witnessing the devastating impact of malaria, village headman Mehmet Gökovalı lost four of his children to the disease and vowed to combat it to protect his remaining offspring. After discovering that eucalyptus trees could naturally drain swamps, Gökovalı sought assistance. However, these trees were not native to Turkey. Fortunately, Cevat Şakir Kabaağaçlı, known as the Fisherman of Halicarnassus, learned of the situation and, in 1938, wrote letters to Australia to import eucalyptus seedlings to Turkey. The trees planted along both sides of the road eventually formed what is now known as Lovers' Lane. As a result, the swamp dried up, and the mosquitoes responsible for malaria vanished. Today, Lovers' Road is celebrated as Turkey's most romantic thoroughfare, where newlyweds and tourists alike flock to capture photographs. It's a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.
Transportation to Akçapınar
Akçapınar lies nestled between Akyaka and Marmaris, approximately 30 kilometers away from Marmaris. Accessing the town via the Marmaris-Muğla road is one option, while opting for the Lovers' Road entrance provides an opportunity to experience Turkey's most enchanting thoroughfare.
Akçapınar Azmağı empties into the Gulf of Gökova. Should you prefer to arrive by yacht, you can anchor your vessel near Gökçe Beach within the gulf and disembark onto land.