The Gedelme Plateau is a mountain village 700 metres up in the hills behind Kemer, home to one of the oldest and largest plane trees in the world. The Gedelme plane tree, said to be about 2,700 years old, stands on the Lycian Way and makes a cool stop in summer. The plateau also has the remains of the Byzantine Gedelme Castle. This guide covers the tree, the castle and tips for visiting Gedelme.
Gedelme at a glance
- Location: Kuzdere, Kemer district, on the Gedelme Plateau
- Altitude: About 700 m
- Gedelme plane tree: About 2,700 years old, 28 m tall, trunk circumference 14.26 m
- Gedelme Castle: 9th century, Byzantine
- Lycian Way: The tree stands on the route
The Gedelme plane tree
An oriental plane (Platanus orientalis) about 28 metres tall, with a trunk more than 4.5 metres across and a circumference over 14 metres, the Gedelme plane is counted among the largest plane trees in the world. In summer its wide shade and the mountain air make for a cool break.
Gedelme Castle
Gedelme Castle, northwest of the village, was built in the Byzantine period in the 9th century. The name Gedelme is said to come from “Kadrema”, linked to storing and drying grain. The ruins and the plateau views make for a pleasant short walk.
Life on the plateau
Gedelme sits in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains among apple and walnut orchards. Its cool summers make it a welcome escape from the heat on the coast. To learn about Taurus highland culture, see our Yörük Park guide.
Visiting tips
- Getting there: By car from Kemer on a winding mountain road; drive carefully.
- When: Ideal to escape summer heat; spring and autumn are best for walking.
- Lycian Way: For hikers, Gedelme is a pleasant stop on the Lycian Way.
From Kemer to Gedelme
Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is in Kemer town centre, about 250 metres from the sea; you can visit the plateau in the morning and be back at the beach in the afternoon. See our rooms or check availability. For more trips, see places to visit in Kemer.
Frequently asked questions
How old is the Gedelme plane tree?
It is said to be about 2,700 years old, one of the oldest plane trees in the world.
Where is Gedelme?
In Kuzdere, Kemer district, on the Gedelme Plateau at about 700 metres.
How old is Gedelme Castle?
It dates from the Byzantine period, in the 9th century.