Düden Waterfalls | Antalya

The Düden Waterfalls are a series of picturesque waterfalls located in the Antalya province of southern Turkey, just outside the city of Antalya itself. Known for their stunning beauty and tranquility, the Düden Waterfalls are one of the region's most popular natural attractions. The falls are divided into two main sections: Upper Düden Waterfall (Yüksek Düden Şelalesi) and Lower Düden Waterfall (Aşağı Düden Şelalesi), each offering unique experiences and spectacular views.

Key Highlights of the Düden Waterfalls:

Upper Düden Waterfall (Yüksek Düden Waterfall):

Location: The Upper Düden Waterfall is located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) northeast of Antalya city center, in a more peaceful, forested area.

Scenic Beauty: The Upper Düden Waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and forest, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The waterfall itself is about 20 meters (65 feet) high, where the Düden River cascades over the rocks into a small pool below.

Park and Walking Trails: There’s a lovely park area around the Upper Düden Waterfall with walking paths, benches, and shaded spots for visitors to enjoy. You can take a relaxing stroll along the river, which has various viewpoints, allowing you to appreciate the waterfall from different angles.

Cave Behind the Waterfall: A unique feature of the Upper Düden Waterfall is a cave that runs behind the waterfall. Visitors can walk behind the falls and look out through the curtain of water, offering a stunning and unique perspective of the falls.

Lower Düden Waterfall (Aşağı Düden Waterfall):

Location: The Lower Düden Waterfall is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center, closer to the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the few waterfalls in the world that flows directly into the sea.

Waterfall Flowing into the Sea: The Lower Düden Waterfall is one of the most dramatic waterfalls in Turkey due to its location. The river flows through the cliffs and then dramatically plunges down into the Mediterranean Sea. The sight of water cascading over the cliffs and into the turquoise sea below is awe-inspiring.

Boat Tours: A great way to view the Lower Düden Waterfall is by taking a boat tour that departs from the nearby Antalya Marina. These tours provide a unique perspective of the waterfall as the boats approach the base of the falls and cruise along the coast.

Surrounding Park Area: The area around the Lower Düden Waterfall is a popular park with picnic areas, benches, and places to relax while enjoying the views. It's a great spot for families, couples, and those looking to enjoy a peaceful moment in nature by the sea.

Things to Do at Düden Waterfalls:

Photography: Both the Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls offer fantastic photo opportunities. The contrast between the green parkland, the waterfall’s sheer drop, and the surrounding cliffs or sea makes for dramatic images.

Hiking and Walking: At the Upper Düden Waterfall, there are various trails through the forested area and along the river. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or a bit of hiking. At the Lower Düden Waterfall, you can also walk along the coastal path, taking in both the waterfall and the Mediterranean views.

Picnicking: Both the Upper and Lower Düden Waterfalls are equipped with picnic areas. At the Upper Düden, you'll find shaded spots by the river, while the Lower Düden offers a stunning coastal setting for picnics.

Boating: For a truly special experience, take a boat tour from the Antalya Marina to the Lower Düden Waterfall. This allows you to get up close to the waterfall as it crashes down into the sea.

Relaxation: The areas surrounding both waterfalls are ideal for relaxation. Whether you're sitting by the falls, listening to the sound of the water, or enjoying the fresh air, the Düden Waterfalls offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit the Düden Waterfalls is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. In these seasons, the waterfalls are often at their most spectacular, with full flow from the spring rains and cooler temperatures making outdoor exploration more enjoyable.

Summer can be very hot in Antalya, but visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon allows you to enjoy the waterfalls with fewer crowds and in cooler temperatures.

Winter may be an option if you prefer fewer crowds, but be aware that the weather can be cool, and some areas might be less accessible due to rain.

How to Get There:

Upper Düden Waterfall: The Upper Düden Waterfall is located about 10 km from the center of Antalya. It’s easily accessible by private car, taxi, or public transportation (such as buses that go to the Düden Waterfall area). There are also guided tours available that can take you to the waterfall along with other nearby attractions.

Lower Düden Waterfall: The Lower Düden Waterfall is also about 8 km from the city center. It’s located near the Karpuzkaldıran neighborhood, and there are public buses and taxis that can take you directly to the falls. The site is well-signposted, making it easy to find.

Additional Information:

Opening Hours: The Upper Düden Waterfall park is generally open every day from early morning until late evening. The area around the Lower Düden Waterfall is accessible at all times, but the park may close at certain hours.

Admission Fees: Visiting the Upper Düden Waterfall usually has a small entrance fee, whereas the Lower Düden Waterfall is free to access.

Facilities: Both areas offer good facilities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and café kiosks for refreshments.

Conclusion:

The Düden Waterfalls are a beautiful natural attraction in Antalya, offering visitors a chance to experience the power and beauty of water as it cascades through lush landscapes and into the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you visit the tranquil Upper Düden Waterfall or the dramatic Lower Düden Waterfall, the experience is sure to be memorable. With opportunities for walking, photography, picnicking, and even boating, the Düden Waterfalls are a must-see for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape in the Antalya region.