Sirince

Many visit Sirince for just an afternoon when they go to the magnificent Roman ruins at Ephesus; a side trip to pick up a few souvenirs. But this village hugging the hills of the South Aegean is better experienced with a longer stay for its own sake.

Sirince was settled in the 15th Century by the Greeks, who initially named it Cirkince (Ugly) to deter others settling there. It was renamed, more accurately, Sirince (Pretty or Pleasant) in the 1920s and it still retains the atmosphere of a mountainous town lost in time, were it not for the bus-loads of tourists traipsing through. That’s why it is best to overnight here, or even better, spend a couple of nights exploring and perambulating peacefully when the hordes have fled. It is then that the true nature of the village reveals itself, in the quieter moments, when you may try the bizarre fruit-flavoured wines (peach or blueberry anyone?) without rushing, taking time to chat to the locals and watch the setting sun.

There is a great converted historical house to stay in, the Gullu Konak (Rose Residence), which overlooks the plantations and verdant groves that are abundant in the area. From here you can investigate the stucco-cottage-strewn lanes and head up out of the village on tracks that allow for limitless views of the gorgeous scenery, over and above the pretty town. Take a bottle of water (or a local Efes beer), sit and drink in the epic vista.

Anton finds it tough to turn down a beer with a view (don’t we all?), whether it’s at home in London, or away in his latest new travel destination. Get him planning your trips to find all the best vantage points.