Alara River Bridge: A Hidden Gem with History, Food & Adventure

The morning sun glints off the Alara River as you pull over near the crumbling stone arches of Alara Kemer Köprü, a 13th-century Seljuk bridge that’s stood the test of time. This isn’t just a bridge—it’s a gateway to a slower, richer Alanya, where history hums in the stones and the scent of grilled trout drifts from riverside restaurants.

Start your visit by crossing the bridge (carefully—it’s over 700 years old!) and soaking in the views of the turquoise river cutting through the lush valley. Locals say the bridge was part of a vital trade route linking Alanya’s port to inland Anatolia. Today, it’s a quiet spot for photos, with the sound of rushing water and the occasional heron taking flight.

Hungry? Walk five minutes downstream to Alara Piknik, a rustic open-air restaurant where plastic chairs and checkered tablecloths belie the feast to come. Order alabalık (fresh rainbow trout) straight from the river, grilled over charcoal and served with lemon, onions, and crusty bread. Pair it with ayran (yogurt drink) or sweet black tea, and don’t skip the meze platter—think creamy haydari (yogurt with herbs), spicy acılı ezme (tomato salad), and smoky eggplant dip. Pro tip: Ask for a table by the water; the breeze makes even a summer afternoon bearable.

With your belly full, it’s time for adventure. A 10-minute drive (or a scenic 3km hike) brings you to Colybrassus Antik Kenti, the ruins of a Roman-era city perched on a hillside. Climb past olive groves to explore the remnants of a theater, temples, and a necropolis with rock-cut tombs. The view from the top—rolling hills meeting the Mediterranean—is worth the sweat. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a hat; shade is scarce, but the sense of discovery is intoxicating.

As the sun dips lower, head back to the bridge for one last look. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot locals fishing with handlines or families picnicking under the plane trees. It’s a reminder that some of Alanya’s best experiences aren’t in the city center but in these quiet corners, where history, nature, and a perfectly grilled fish come together.

Getting There: Alara Kemer Köprü is 30km east of Alanya (40 minutes by car). Follow the D400 highway toward Gazipaşa; signs for ‘Alara Çayı’ will guide you. Parking is free near the bridge. For Colybrassus, continue east on the D400 and turn at the brown ‘Antik Kent’ sign.