Seki Plateau

When one speaks of a "yayla" (highland plateau) in the geography of Seydikemer, Seki is one of the first places that comes to mind. It is far more than just a pristine, isolated piece of nature; it is the vibrant hub where the social, commercial, and cultural life of the Taurus Mountains' high-altitude settlements beats. Serving as the main gateway to higher and more virgin plateaus like Girdev, Seki offers an authentic mountain town experience in its own right. This cool haven, a refuge for those fleeing the oppressive summer heat of the coast, embraces its visitors with clean air and a tranquil rhythm.

What makes Seki special is its living, breathing fabric. Instead of touristy storefronts, you'll find shops for daily life, coffeehouses where locals gather, and authentic tradesmen's restaurants serving the purest form of highland cuisine. Tasting the local specialty, "Tahinli Pide" (flatbread with tahini), is a must-do when visiting Seki. The roads passing through the town lead you to apple orchards on one side and the majestically rising Mount Eren on the other.

However, Seki's fame is truly cemented by the traditional Seki Oil Wrestling Festival (Yağlı Güreş) held annually. This festival, which attracts wrestlers and fans from all over Turkey, transforms the town into a fairground. The event is considered one of the most important oil wrestling organizations after Kırkpınar and showcases the region's deep-rooted Yörük (nomadic Turkmen) culture and its devotion to this ancestral sport. Seki is not just a geographical area but a home to living traditions and warm-hearted mountain people.

Key Information:

• Location: The main high-altitude settlement center of Seydikemer, located on the Fethiye-Antalya highway (via Elmalı).
  


• Highlight Feature: Being a vibrant mountain town that is the center of highland culture, and hosting the traditional Seki Oil Wrestling Festival.
  


• Activities: Tasting local delicacies, serving as a starting point for trips to Mount Eren and higher plateaus (Girdev, Temel, etc.), nature walking.
  


• Tip: Instead of touring Seki like a museum, experience it by sitting down at a local eatery and sharing a table with the local people. If you can time your visit with the wrestling festival, you will have the opportunity to witness one of the most authentic and enthusiastic cultural events in the Taurus Mountains.