Zeolite mining centre Population: 10,000
The small town of Gördes, high in the hills above Akhisar, may have given its name to the double-knot used in Turkish carpet-weaving but it is today a modern town with virtually nothing safe the odd slab of carved marble to show for its past.
Instead it is the heart of a thriving zeolite mining industry, producing the basic ingredients for household detergents and cat litter amongst other things.
Sleeping
The only hotel in town is right beside the bus station but will be too basic for most tastes. There are better options in Salihli and Akhisar.
Transport info
There are infrequent buses to Gördes from Akhisar, Manisa and Salihli.
