Rising in the upper elevations of the Beydağları range, the Alakır River flows approximately 70 kilometres through the gorge between Toçak Mountain and Salur Mountain before reaching the Gulf of Finike and emptying into the Mediterranean. It marks the natural boundary between the Kumluca and Finike districts. But the Alakır is far more than a geographical boundary — it is the lifeblood of one of Turkey's most significant biodiversity areas.
The river and its surrounding valley were designated a Strictly Protected Sensitive Area and a Qualified Natural Conservation Area in 2017, reflecting the valley's extraordinary ecological value.
The World's Oldest Cedar Tree
On the western side of the Alakır Valley, the Dibek Nature Reserve contains what is arguably the valley's most remarkable secret: the oldest known cedar tree in the world. Known locally as Ambar Katranı — the Ambar Cedar — this monumental tree is 2,326 years old and continues to live within the protected area. Its extraordinary age is attributed to the valley's special microclimate, which geologists believe provided shelter from freezing temperatures even during the ice ages — acting as a refugium for species that disappeared from the surrounding region.
Dibek is also home to a remarkable concentration of endemic plant species. Bikir vine, thistle-leaved echinops, eastern maple, and the species known locally as Mührüsüleyman are among the endemic species found here. These are relict plants — survivors of the Tertiary Tethys Flora — species that have persisted in this valley since before the ice ages while disappearing from virtually everywhere else.
Activities
The clear, cold waters of the Alakır are excellent for swimming and cooling off. Trails along the valley offer walking and trekking routes through spectacular mountain terrain. Near Altınyaka Plateau, a trout farm and eating facilities operate for visitors. Suitable camping areas exist along the valley; the area's sensitive conservation status demands that visitors treat the environment with particular care.
Practical Information
- Location: Kumluca district, Antalya. 27 km from Kumluca centre, approximately 120 km from Antalya city centre, 20 km from Finike.
- Getting there: By private car from Kumluca toward Altınyaka Yaylası. The road becomes progressively more mountainous; accessible by standard car with care on the upper sections.
- Entrance fee: Free.
- Opening hours: Always accessible.
- Best time to visit: April to November. Spring is ideal for endemic wildflowers and walking.
- Important: The area carries Strictly Protected Sensitive Area status. Leaving litter and disturbing vegetation are prohibited.
- Combine with: Gelidonya Lighthouse and Arykanda Ancient City near Finike lie along the same route.
