The port of Cesme; on the Peninsula of the same name that juts out into the Aegean Sea, has always been an important place on the silk route. It is here that the camel trains would unload their goods for shipment across Europe. These days the camel trains have gone but the countryside still has groves of figs and aniseed and plenty of refreshing natural warm springs that are a big draw for people.
One of the most popular attractions for visitors to Cesme is bathing with Mother Nature. This naturally volcanic region creates a series of warm water springs that burst into life along the coastline. These tepid springs help raise the seas temperature by a couple of degrees and also provides a host of places where both locals and tourists gather to take a luxurious, rejuvenating bath.
The seaside around Cesme has over 29 Km of warm Aegean Sea in which to swim and numerous sandy beaches where you can relax, soak up the rays and have a picnic. Two of the most popular beaches along the coastline are Ilica and Boyalik Bays. Ilica is over 2 km in length and has a café situated here, whereas Boyalik is much longer at 5 km and has several places where you can eat and grab a drink.
The town centre has its own thermal baths where you can take the waters that have been providing relief to visitors for centuries. Sifne Bay is reputed to have the best natural springs and claims to alleviate backache, rheumatism and digestive problems. As for accommodation there are many hotels in Turkey including the Radisson Blu Resort & Hotel Cesme is in an ideal location boasting stunning views of the Aegean Coast and has an on-site spa, and two swimming pools.
The town itself is a lively and exciting place with a very active nightlife scene, especially along the seafront promenade, with its views of the harbour, full of boats and yachts. There are many sumptuous restaurants and café bars dotted around the centre providing great meals, drinks and live entertainment.
Cesme is dominated by the old castle, built by the Genoese to defend the port from attack in the 14th century, it was enlarged during the 16th century and has more recently been renovated. Previously it held a display of guns but now serves as an archaeological museum. Here there are exhibits from digs around the area including such finds as clay busts, marble sculptures and silver along with silver and bronze coins.
The Orthodox Church of Agios, was once an active place of worship but sat redundant for many years after its abandonment by its congregation. It has now been given a new lease of life as an art gallery.
The area is a popular place for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of the waves and especially those who like windsurfing, for which there is an annual competition every July. There is also a music festival held each year at the start of July that has since 1989 been attracting a faithful following.