Overlooking Selimiye village Turkey

The Appeal of Selimiye Village

Selimiye is a small coastal village located within easy reach of Marmaris. While it remains relatively quiet, it has long been known among local travelers from larger Turkish cities.

The village is shaped around a sheltered bay, with a short waterfront lined by a handful of well-regarded seafood restaurants. Evenings here tend to be calm, focused on simple meals, soft conversation, and views across the water.

Scenery From Land and Sea

One of Selimiye’s strongest qualities is how different it feels depending on your viewpoint. From land, the surrounding hills frame the village and give it a sense of enclosure and privacy. From the water, the coastline opens into a series of gentle curves, private bays, and small coves that are ideal for anchoring.

This contrast makes Selimiye particularly suitable as part of a sailing holiday rather than a stand-alone stay.

Exploring by Gulet

For many guests, the best way to experience Selimiye is on board a gulet. A gulet is a traditional Turkish wooden cruising yacht, originally developed for coastal trade and fishing. Today, these vessels are designed for comfort, with wide decks, shaded seating areas, and a relaxed onboard rhythm.

If you would like a broader introduction to this yacht type, see our overview of Turkish gulets.

Craftsmanship and Character

Traditional gulets are built from woods such as mahogany, pine, and teak. Older yachts, especially those over five to ten years old, often reflect generations of boatbuilding knowledge. Their interiors are typically finished in wood, sometimes with hand-carved details that give each vessel its own identity.

Modern gulets may use updated technology, but many still preserve the classic profile and atmosphere.

Colours and Styles on the Water

Gulets appear in a wide range of colours, from deep navy blues to rich greens. Most are fully varnished, giving them a warm appearance that stands out against the sea. Lighter-toned yachts are usually classified as motorsailers rather than traditional gulets, with a different hull and deck style.

This visual variety adds character to the bays and harbours along the route.

How to Reach Selimiye

Selimiye is located approximately 45 minutes by road from Marmaris. This short transfer makes it accessible while still feeling removed from busy resort centre. Many sailing itineraries include Selimiye either at the beginning or as a peaceful mid-route stop.

Sailing Beyond Selimiye

A sailing holiday in this region often extends beyond Selimiye itself. Routes may include private bays, small islands, and quiet coastal villages that are difficult to reach by land. Some itineraries also cross to nearby Greek islands, such as Symi, depending on route permissions and guest preferences.

For general background on the island, you may find this reference helpful: Symi island overview.

Food, Sea Air, and Hospitality

Life on board centres around simple pleasures. Fresh sea air, long swims, and meals prepared with local ingredients shape the day.

Turkish cuisine, combined with attentive crew service and welcoming local culture, often leaves a lasting impression. These elements together define why many guests describe Selimiye as a place they return to rather than just visit once.

Planning a Selimiye Sailing Holiday

When planning a gulet holiday in this area, consider the length of your stay and how much variety you want. Short routes work well for guests who prefer minimal sailing time and longer swims.