Turkey has grown steadily in popularity in recent decades. The ‘gateway to the east’ is an exciting mixture of Mediterranean cool and eastern exoticism, with plenty of beautiful scenery to boot. With firms like Thomas Cook offering budget flights and cheap holidays Turkey is an excellent destination for hardy walkers, with a number of different regions offering a variety of terrains and natural sights.

An evergreen Turkish hotspot, the coastal town of Kemer is popular with tourists and locals alike. Cobbled streets from a bygone era wind their way through this picture postcard town, with the indomitable Taurus Mountains providing the dramatic backdrop. Hiking between the two will deliver ocular and olfactory delights – from the pretty forests of pine down to the quaint pebble beach.

Further round the southern coast, In the Mugla province, sits Marmaris. Marking the meeting point between the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, Marmaris boast some incredible views. And after a days hiking, you’ll be glad to know that the nightlife here has no rival in Turkey, from fine examples of local food and wine, to buzzing nightclubs.

Generally regarded as one of the world’s finest beaches, the Blue Lagoon at Olu Deniz is known for crystal clear waters and pearly white sands. It’s also a hikers paradise. The Babadag Mountain provides a tantalizingly formidable challenge, with steep inclines and rocky faces to navigate, and paragliding on offer at the summit for hardcore adrenaline junkies. You’ll need a strong constitution, but there are few better ways to see the area than from an aerial vantage point.

Side, 15km east of Antalya, is a pretty coastal resort, with lots to see on a walking holiday. It’s appeal lies in the uber-modern facilities located near fascinating ancient ruins – perfect for tourists who want a bit of culture with their relaxation. There are plenty of shopping opportunities too, and if you just want to get lots of beach time, Side has a number of stunning, golden beaches.