Alanya truly is a magical place.
Yesterday, I set off on what was meant to be a 7 kilometre walk downhill into the city after discovering the local bus had taken the week off—leaving the mountain locals and me to improvise. About a kilometre in, a kind local farmer offered me a lift. He works his fields outside Alanya each day and, with excellent English and easy generosity, dropped me near the Marina, perfectly placed for my castle adventure.
Arriving early, I had time to wander the hills around the castle as the sun rose, bathing Alanya in soft morning light. The Marina was breathtaking—quiet, calm, and shared only with fishermen, street cats, and early risers. It felt like the city was gently waking up.
After exploring the castle and strolling through the bazaar, I decided to walk back to the pet hotel. A fine idea… until the final hills reminded me that perhaps next time I should either plan better—or find a tree with one of those magical taxi buttons.
