Antalya

If someone told you that a single destination in Europe could give you skiing, diving, blissful beaches, endless summer, stunning scenery and archaeological finds aplenty, you'd probably either scoff heartily or do a runner to the airport. Well, your taxi's waiting outside, because Antalya, basking between the Turkish Mediterranean and spectacular snow-peaked mountains, does just that and a whole lot more.

It wasn't until the 60s that word of Antalya started to spread. Then, it was a humble fishing village backing onto ruins; now, it's the fastest-growing city in Turkey, and - in addition to sun, sea and sand pursuits - the best base from which to explore the many-beaded necklace of important historical sites around the region.

In Antalya itself, the old quarter of Kaleiçi is the main area of interest. Enclosed by a horseshoe of sea and land walls, it houses such treasures as the 2nd-century Truncated Minaret Mosque, the three-arched grandeur of Hadrian's Gate, and the 13th-century Fluted Minaret in the Kalekapisi neighbourhood. Put a visit to the old harbour and the superb Archaeological Museum on your must-see list, too.

When it's time to explore the ancient cities around the Gulf of Antalya, you're spoilt for choice. Some hold that the ruins of Termessos, high in the Taurus Mountains, are the most interesting. But in 3300-year-old Perge, you can marvel at the remains of a massive stadium, and the equally elderly Aspendos has an enormous ancient theatre, which is still in use today.

History doesn't end at the water's edge, either - the welcoming bay has swallowed plenty of hapless vessels since the Bronze Age.