Turkey has an astonishing array of rural locations in which you can buy property. If you want to avoid high-energy beach resorts, no problem. If you want a village house within easy reach of a stretch of quieter coastline, no problem. We look at the different types of rural property for sale in Turkey, and where the bargains are to be found.
When discussing the prices of rural houses in Turkey, we must consider the benefits of living in rural homes as well as the areas of Turkey which would suit international buyers.
Prices of rural property in Turkey: What are the benefits of living in the countryside?
Many people go to the countryside to find peace and quiet and to get away from the noise and pollution that have become a part of city life.
In this sense, Turkey is known for its densely populated cities, such as Istanbul. The nation’s economic capital has a population of nearly 16 million people.
At the same time, Turkey is known for the variety of natural and diverse habitats found in its extensive countryside. This includes plains, mountains, waterfalls, springs, and agricultural land.
As a result, those looking for rural property for sale in Turkey will be confronted with a broad range of choice. We’ll go through some of the benefits of living in the country below:
- Rural life is simple, while urban life is complex, depending on the nature of the social climate and the ease with which business is conducted.
- Enjoying peace and quiet away from the noise of vehicles, machines, and factories allows you to concentrate more and complete tasks.
- The air is largely free of pollution you find in built-up areas. Breathe more easily!
The beauty of Turkey means you can buy a property which feels rural, but is just 20-30 miles from seaside towns and beach resorts.
We look at a couple of examples of areas where rural properties are popular for those looking for a quieter life:
Uzumlu
18km from Fethiye and around an hour from Dalaman airport, Uzumlu is nestled into the foothills of the Taurus mountains. The village’s name actually means ‘place of grape’, and you can the locals still working the land to produce grape juice, olive oil, tobacco and vinegar. A pretty village situated 500m above sea level, many properties here offer amazing views of the snow-capped peaks of the Taurus mountains, but also the fertile land below. It really is like taking a step back in time about 50 years or so when you visit this lovely rural village. You’ll find a few shops in the village centre and the ubiquitous Turkish tea shop where the locals congregate to talk (gossip!) about village life. And don’t forget the weekly market when the village really comes to life!
In terms of architecture there are quaint village houses with courtyards, fine Ottoman-style houses and luxuriant gardens and further out large farmsteads perfect for smallholdings.
Properties for sale in Uzumlu
Detached 5 bedroom villa for sale in Uzumlu – £350,000 (approx)
Luxury detached 5 bedroom villa for sale on a plot of just over a third of an acre in Uzumlu, 20 minutes from Fethiye. The land includes a large terrace, with a large private swimming pool heated by solar panels. The villa was originally designed and built by the owners, and constructed to a very high standard.
This villa includes underfloor heating, cavity wall insulation, high-spec white goods, double glazing, built-in blinds, fly screens and CCTV. The living room has a wood-burning stove for the winter and doors onto the swimming pool and terrace for the rest of the year. The rooms on one side of the house are actually set up as an apartment, so you could either use this as a grand 5 bedroom property, or a three-bedroom house with a two bedroom apartment. It could be useful separate accommodation for family or friends, or even as a holiday rental.
2 Bedroom Bungalow for sale in Uzumlu – £156,000 (approx)
Traditional 2 bedroom stone bungalow for sale in Uzumlu, 20 minutes from Fethiye, with private pool and large garden. The location offers excellent views of the local Turkish countryside and pine forests. The property is modern, nicely-decorated with laminate floors and PVC double glazing patio doors. Given its location and garden, this property lends itself more to a permanent move or a long stay. The property also includes the wood burner and all the white goods. It is furnished and ready-to-move-into. It sits on 1000m² of private garden with a mature landscaped garden, fruit trees, private swimming pool and car port. The home combines the best of the rural Turkish landscape with all the luxury of modern living.
Ortaca
Ortaca, a typical Turkish agricultural town, offers many rural properties for sale. Located in the Muğla province on the Aegean side of Turkey, Ortaca is equidistant between Dalaman and Dalyan. It doesn’t much more rural than this! The site of the village was probably chosen originally as it is in the middle of a fertile plain. Perfect Mediterranean conditions for growing citrus fruits, pomegranates and tomatoes. Oh, and forget busy beach resorts and nightclubs, the unspoilt beach at Sarıgerme is less than 30 minutes away by car.
Akkaya
The idyllic village of Akkaya is 25 minutes away from Dalaman Airport. Remarkably untouched, it is nestled amongst the pine trees and mountains surrounding Koycegiz lake. There are a few independent villas and one main development/complex featuring private properties for sale. Villa prices start at around £85,000 due to its remote location.
Koycegiz
Surprisingly, Koycegiz has avoided the ravages of mass tourism and real estate growth. It is a very pretty resort with a large range of local attractions, bars, restaurants, and shops. It is in a great location surrounding the spectacular Koycegiz Lake.
Honey and thyme are popular in Koycegiz, as is the presence of unusual Liquid Amber (incense) trees. Koycegiz has increased in popularity in recent years. An increasing number of foreigners are settling in the region year-round, drawn by the area’s affordable housing and natural beauty.
Yesiltepe
The Bafa Lake National Park is one of the biggest lakes in western Anatolia, surrounded by nature and history. Large, private plots are the norm in Yesiltepe. This area has become popular with some of Didim’s ex-pats, preferring the quiet peaceful life of the area. It is a beautiful area unspoilt by mass tourism and is easily access by bus services.
Unique Luxury Detached Villa in Yesiltepe – £185,000 (Approx)
Luxury 5 bedroom villa in the hills of Yesiltepe, 20 minutes from Didim and Akbuk. Built on a 700m2 plot, with a vast living space of 240m2. The property comes with air conditioning, granite floors, automatic shutters, smart home system. The garden has been landscaped with Bodrum stone. There is a private swimming pool and garage. There are only detached villas in this quiet area, away from the noise of the city.
Yalikavak
This seaside town is the perfect compromise, not too rowdy nor is it too agricultural. Located just 20kms from the bustling coastal resort of Bodrum (with all shops, services and everything you’ll need). Yalikavak has its own blue flag beaches, bars and restaurants and offers its residents a relaxed pace of life. With a pretty bay and local marina, Yalikavak is the St Ives of the Turkish coast and has attracted artists and creatives galore!
Properties in and around Yalikavak command a premium because of the coastal situation, stunning views and proximity to Bodrum. It has transformed over recent years from a pretty little fishing village into an elite and sought-after area close to Bodrum. It offers some of the finest luxury homes on the peninsula, and yachts moor in the marina from all over the world.