TheKiteMag - Guides Destination Guide Autumn 2018 | Page 36

5/5 1/5 5/5 4/5 URLA,TURKEY THE LOWDOWN Urla is not only amazing for kiting – with a world class spot, a huge, shallow lagoon, and lots of flatwater options – it is also very easy to reach, in the middle of one of the most beautiful areas of Turkey, with plenty to do in the vicinity! KITING SET UP The spot is big, at about two kilometers long, with flat waters the whole length, side-shore winds, and shallow waters. It’s super safe, with no underwater obstacles. Right on the spot is the Urla Surf House, which is your complete kite center, hotel, restaurant and bar, all in one. The wind at Urla is quite steady, between 15 and 25 knots, and the spot has a big, safe beginner’s area, separate from the freeride area, and upwind, the only free kite park in Europe! WHEN IS BEST TO GO? The best time to hit it are the months Destination Guide of June, July and August. Every morning throughout there is a thermal effect that brings the winds, and then in the afternoon the ‘Meltemi’ wind takes over. There is also wind in April, May and September, it’s just not quite as reliable. NO WIND? Urla is close to many activities other than kiting, either directly on the spot or close by. Right on the spot, you have the Urla Surf House that has everything you need to make your stay fun and easy… you can chill in the garden next to the pool, play pingpong, skate, SUP, slackline, hit up the hot springs, or just enjoy some food and prop up the bar. Nearby, you can visit vineyards, play some golf, ride horses, dive, visit the Izmir bazaar or the Ephesus ruins, cruise the Urla fishing marina (with its amazing restaurants), as well as take your pick from plenty of beautiful Aegean beaches within easy reach…