Excursions – Monday 30 October

There is a selection of excursions available to delegates on Monday 30 October to help you explore Bodrum further and experience the Turkish way of life.

You can book your excursion when registering for the Convention online. Alternatively, if you have already registered and wish to add an excursion to your booking, please email the Convention office.

Cycle for LifeLine

Half-day e-bike/bike tour  

Distance: approximately 35km / 21 miles

Cost: £65

Experience the wonders of the Bodrum Peninsula via e-bike or bike to gain a different perspective of the region. Cycle between Turkish villages and gain an authentic insight into the everyday life across the area and see why this corner of the world is the perfect place to explore on two wheels.  

You will cycle from Çamlık to the Garova Vineyards to learn about grape varieties within the region, visit the Etrim Village Carpet Cooperation and learn about the traditional techniques used by the skilled artisans, and journey to the Bekiroglu Olive Oil factory.  

Ticket price includes a wonderful lunch of traditional foods from the local area and all proceeds will go to ABTA LifeLine. Book during the registration process, or email the Convention office.

Walking Tour of Bodrum City

Time: 09:00-13:30   

Price: £42  

Immerse yourself in this captivating walking tour of Bodrum city.    

The tour will begin at the vibrant marina, which is surrounded by fishing boats and yachts, before you head to the magnificent Bodrum Castle to explore its ancient walls and discover the fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology within.     

Next, you’ll wander the charming streets of the Old Town’s labyrinthine alleys and take in the whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea. The lingering scent of freshly baked pastries and aromatic spices will be sure to tempt your taste buds.     

Enjoy a short break at a local bakery to indulge in delectable Turkish pastries and a glass of çay, Turkish black tea. Finally, explore the awe-inspiring Halicarnassus Mausoleum that is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and marvel at its grandeur and exquisite sculptures.   

Hike the Ancient

Carian Way 

Time: 09:00-13:00   

Price: £60 

This 10km hike will begin in Konacik and end in Torba via the ancient city of Pedesa.    

You will follow traces of ancient Carians while listening to stories of the people of Pedesa, who supported the Trojans in the Trojan War. Enjoy the Autumn breeze in the forests of the region and discover the variety of native plants before a photo opportunity awaits at Sibda mountains' ancient fortress walls.      

Farmers Market and Turkish Cooking Class

Time: 09:00-15:00 (up to 20 pax)  

Price: £73 

This tour offers a unique opportunity to visit the farmers’ market to shop for fresh ingredients for your lunch. Choose from a variety of food stalls offering local ingredients, such as self-harvested olives, wild seasonal greens, vegetables, as well as homemade noodles, jams, pickles, breads, and a delicious array of cheeses.

You’ll participate in a cooking lesson and will learn the secrets of regional Aegean cookery with its accent on olive oil and fresh herbs. The experience will be wrapped up with a food and wine tasting where stories of Turkish cuisine and family cooking traditions will be shared.       