Tatil blog

Nedendir bilmem ama son aylarca çok fazla tatil blog açıldığını gözlemledim aslında benim gibi tatil severlerin çok hoşuna gittiğini düşünüyorum. Paylaşılmayan bilgi bilgi olmaktan çıkar.

Alında bir yerde bu Ülkemizin tanıtımı açısından çok önemli. Cennet ülkemizizde o kadar güzel yerler varki. Bu ülkede yaşayan bizlerin bile haberdar olmadığı yerler bulunmakta işte bu bloglar sayesinde bu yerler tanınmakta.

Haydi hep birlikte köyümüzü kasabımızı tanıtalım.

Tatil FM - Tatil ve Gezi Blog: Karadeniz

Tatil FM - Tatil ve Gezi Blog: Karadeniz

Fethiye

Fethiye tarihin, denizin tadına varabileceğiniz en güzel ilçelerden bir tanesidir. Fethiye bulunduğu konum itibari ile yeşilin ve mavinin her tonunu bir biriyle bütünleşmesini görebilir bu eşsiz yerde mutlu bir tatil geçirebilirsiniz.

Fethiye konaklama için çok fazla seçeneğiniz mevcuttur. Bu konuda size www.hotelsfethiye.net yardımcı olacaktır.

Turkish Cuisine

New Web sites http://www.turkishcuisine.info/

Kalkan

KALKANA small peaceful Mediterranean resort and fishing town on the beautiful Turquoise Coast of Turkey, Kalkan has not been touched by mass tourism. More sophisticated than the usual resort town, Kalkan appeals to travelers looking for more than a "sun and sea" holiday. Because of its great charm, Kalkan has a growing number of perennial visitors who say the town is the only holiday destination they would choose to visit repeatedly. There is simply no other town quite like Kalkan along Turkey's coast Kalkan curls snuggly around an ancient harbour sheltered at the foot of the towering Taurus Mountains. The town overlooks a beautiful bay in which islands seem to magically float upon the shimmering sea. Narrow streets twist down to the harbour through the historic town and are lined with listed whitewashed villas with shuttered windows situated alongside small local specialty shops and restaurants. Overhead hang original ornately carved Ottoman timber balconies garlanded with brilliantly coloured bougainvillea cascading to the streets below. It is a very special place. Why Kalkan is so special Not only is Kalkan beautiful, but unlike other Turkish coastal resort towns Kalkan's main economy is tourism and therefore its citizens put much pride and effort into the town's historic preservation. Because of this, Kalkan has retained the texture of its history with its distinctive Greek architecture (it was once a Greek and Turkish fishing village). Very strict building codes keep the town small and architecturally blended with the historic heart of the town known as "Old Kalkan". Besides the famous "Kalkan Style" historic architecture, the many excellent restaurants of Kalkan contribute to the special atmosphere within Kalkan. Good dining has always been the way of life in Kalkan and continues today. In fact, Kalkan is said to have the highest number of restaurants and bars per inhabitant or square meter on the Turkish coast. Additionally, Kalkan is especially renowned in Turkey for its numerous roof-top terrace restaurants and bars which offer a wonderful view of the town, sea and stars. You can also sit at one of the many fine harbour-side restaurants and watch the fishermen leave early in the morning as you eat breakfast, or see them return with the day's catch in the evening. Kalkan is a small town (of only a few thousand) and this creates a wonderful intimate feeling. But don't let its size mislead you - there is plenty to do in and around Kalkan. During the day the town is surprisingly empty as most guests choose to swim or explore the multitude of beautiful ancient Lycian and natural sites of the area. However, everything changes in the evening when Kalkan bursts alive for a long, festive night.Kalkan has many special qualities, but without a doubt it is the people of Kalkan who make the town extra-special. The people of Kalkan happily welcome you, and you may at first be surprised by the universal friendliness within the town. It is absolutely genuine. Warm Turkish hospitality and friendliness is the basis of life here and the people of Kalkan sincerely enjoy getting to know their guests. So don't hesitate to accept one of the many tulip-shaped glasses of çay (tea) you will be offered while you amble along Kalkan's winding streets. You won't be hassled while you are a guest of Kalkan - the town is hassle-free and is proud to be so. You will find a mixed population here, consisting mainly of locals, some Istanbul Turks who own businesses, as well as a small number ofwell-educated foreigners who have settled in the town. Kalkan's History and ArchitectureKalkan has been a place of settlement since antiquity with the important location as the only safe harbour between Kas and Fethiye. Kalkan was a very important port during the 19th century - even more so than Fethiye or Antalya, its two larger neighbors. The Kalkan you see today was settled 150 to 200 years ago by people of both Greek and Turkish origin subject to the Ottoman Empire. Camels brought goods to Kalkan from the nearby Xanthos valley and from as far away as the mountain highlands near Elmali. Cargo ships were then loaded in Kalkan's harbour to sail for the far reaches of the Ottoman Empire carrying charcoal, silk (you can see many mulberry trees in Kalkan today), olive oil (still produced in Kalkan) and wine, as well as cotton, grain, sesame seed, flour, grapes, acorns used for dye, and lumber from the vast cedar and pine forests.By the early 20th century Kalkan had become quite a sizeable village. At the turn of the century it had its own custom’s house and in 1915 there were reportedly seventeen restaurants, a goldsmith, a shoemaker and several tailors. The first local elections were held in 1928 and in 1937 the present elementary school was opened.Following World War I, the exchange in population between the new Turkish Republic and Greece took place in 1921 during the Turkish War of Independence. Most of the Greek origin people then living in Kalkan left Turkey (some going to the nearby Greek island of Meis), but trading continued until it faded away in the 1950’s due to the improvement of the Turkish road system and the adoption of overland transport. With no more sea trade, the population of Kalkan trickled away as people moved to larger coastal cities to find work. Luckily, Kalkan was saved by the arrival of wealthy English yachtsmen in the 1960's and tourism eventually became the main economy of Kalkan. Because of this, Kalkan has retained its historic charm. Strict building and preservation codes are enforced and many of Kalkan's buildings are listed. Because of the determination to keep Kalkan beautiful, Kalkan has a specialness to it lacking in many other towns along the coast. Despite the changes tourism has brought to the people of Kalkan, traditional life still continues for many of the local residents. Historically, many locals of Kalkan have owned land both in Kalkan and in the nearby mountain village of Bezirgan, set in a beautiful valley. Today many of these residents continue to follow the pattern of their ancestors, spending summers in the coolness of the mountains and winters near the warm coast.ArchitectureKalkan's Greek origin can still be seen in its distinctive architecture which is very similar to the architecture of the nearby Greek island of Meis (Castellorizo). There is also a Greek Orthodox church by Kalkan's harbour which has been converted into a mosque. As you walk about Old Kalkan you will notice much historic architecture. This architecture is very special, of the traditional 'Kalkan Style', and is well-preserved and protected. Old Kalkan's houses line narrow streets winding up from the harbour and are quite beautiful, often covered in bougainvillea. They are characteristically built of stone with small shuttered windows and timber balconies, whitewashed walls and contrasting woodwork. and often have courtyards and gardens. Narrow passages criss-cross between the houses. To combat the heat of summer, houses were built for coolness. Balconies, terraces and courtyards were constructed to create cool, comfortable areas, while small windows could be tightly shuttered from the hot noon sun. Windows and balconies of the upper floors face the sea to take advantage of any breezes. Old Kalkan buildings are usually two stories high, unless the road is very steep. In this case there is sometimes a mezzanine. Behind the pediment (the hallmark of the traditional Kalkan house) is the red-tiled roof and chimneypot. Ground floors are usually used as shops or for storage while residents live on the floors above. The many decorative elements of old Kalkan’s architecture provide a link to the area’s ancient past. Such elements can be seen in the sills placed between the floor levels and the tops of windows and on the corners of buildings enhanced with pilasters and pseudo column capitals. Adorned pediments grace facades, and dentils and cornices decorate eves.'An Historical Note'Piri Reis, an admiral of the Ottoman Fleet in the 16th century is the author of Kitab-ı Bahriyye which is history’s first-known sea pilot’s book. Every Mediterranean port is accurately described and the charts are almost perfect, reflecting the author’s considerable knowledge of the Mediterranean, which partly belonged to his empire (the area stretching from Morocco to Venice). In 1550, or thereabouts, Piri Reis produced charts of North and South America and here again he has achieved amazing accuracy. How he did it is one of history’s unsolved mysteries. In Kitab-ı Bahriyye, there is a chapter about Kalkan Bay, wherein the author has described with pinpoint precision Kalkan’s fresh water supply, the supply which is mainstay of the village today. From him we also learn that the bay was also called ALIKI-KARA or ALKI-KAARA and that the western tip of the bay was named KALAMOÇ. Kalkan the Turkish name and Kalamaki, the Greek name may have been derived from these origins. At the time of writing, Piri Reis does not mention a settlement in the bay. (16th century)'Climate'Often compared with Southern California, Lycia has a typical Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and warm wet winters. The sea water temperature rarely drops below 16°C thus enabling swimmers to have an eight to nine month bathing season. On a beautiful day in the middle of the winter it is a pleasure to walk on the hillsides overlooking the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, basking in the sun and enjoying the perfume of thyme, laurel, and sage arising from the "maquis". On such a day it is not rare for the temperature to reach 20°-22°C. (70°F) The hottest days of the hottest months are cooled down by the "Meltem" which is a breeze which blows every afternoon. Nevertheless, people who have problems coping with the heat are recommended to visit the region during the spring , early summer, or in the autumn. This temperature climate is the reason for a non-stop agricultural season which keeps the farmers busy the whole year round with an average of 300 days of sun per year. 'History of Kalkan'There is no specific data on when Kalkan was founded, but one of the legends which is most widely accepted is that a woman from the Island of Meis came with a boatload of goods which she tried to sell to the villagers around the Kalkan area. Her venture was successful and other tradesmen from Meis followed her example and actually moved to Kalkan about 150 to 200 years ago, thus making Kalkan a small trading coastal post. The original settlers were of both Greek and Turkish origin and were subjects of the Ottoman Empire. It is interesting to note that the architectural style of the Kalkan resembles that of the houses in Meis (Castellorizo), which incidentally until the early part of the twentieth century was considered to be the sponge capital of the world. Very quickly, within a period of 25 years, Kalkan grew to its present size and became a successful community. The rapid growth of Kalkan can in all likelihood be attributed to the fact that Kalkan has the only hospitable harbor between Kaş and Fethiye. Once again, there is a legend attached to the question. During the mid-nineteenth century the area was plagued with bandits who frequently raided the small coastal settlements at night. At this particular time, there was an unfortunate farmer who lived on the outskirts of the village and it was his farm that was one of the marauder’s favorite targets. Using farm implements at hand the farmer improvised and defended his property with his home-made shield and weapons and became known locally as "The man with the shield" - "Kalkanlı". Because of the mixed population, (Ottoman subjects of Greek and Turkish origin) people started to call the village "Kalamaki" and it is thought that this name was derived from the Greek word "kalamari (squid)" which were plentiful in the surrounding sea. Also within its history Kalkan has been known as which is Turkish for port/quay/jetty. The building that many consider to be the symbol of Kalkan, the Mosque standing above the harbor was formerly a Greek Orthodox Church. This lovely building was built in the later part of the nineteenth century and the ornamented church bell, dated 1897, mayw be seen in the foyer of the townhall. Earlier I mentioned that Kalkan had been called İskele indicating a place where boats are loaded. During the late nineteenth century Kalkan reached its peak and actually became the most important trading port serving the Teke Peninsula. Kalkan was more important even than Fethiye or Antalya and produce was brought in from the highlands (as far away as Elmalı) and the Patara Plain. In those days it must have been quite a sight to see the cameleers driving their camels into Kalkan/İskele loaded high with goods which would be unloaded by burly porters at the quayside into small boats which would, in turn, off-load onto the ships anchored in the bay. These ships, laden with cargo, sailed to the Eastern Mediterranean, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Cyprus, Rhodes and other destinations which were all part of the Ottoman Empire. Not too long ago, I met an old fellow who had lived in Kalkan in 1915 and he told me that at that time there were seventeen restaurants in Kalkan where you could eat and drink, a goldsmith, shoemaker and several tailors. In fact, at the beginning of the twentieth century, Kalkan had its own custom’s house and in 1928, the first local elections were held. In 1937, the present elementary school was opened and it was one of the few elementary boarding schools in existence in Turkey at the time. Also, it is often a surprise for people to learn that there was a thriving charcoal making industry throughout the area and especially in Kalkan. Another rather amazing product of the area was silk and as you walk around Kalkan today, you will spot several mulberry trees. In addition, to the exportation of charcoal and silk cocoons, you had bales of cotton, olive oil (again manufactured in Kalkan as it is today), grain, sesame seed, flour from the local mills, grapes, wine from the Kalkan winery, acorns used in dye fabrication as well as lumber from the cedar and pine forests. Change initially started to take place during and after, especially after, World War I, when in 1921 the exchange of population took place between the young Turkish Republic and Greece. During that time a lot of Greek subjects left Kalkan but nevertheless active trading continued before fading away in 1950s. One of the major factors contributing to the decline of Kalkan was the vast improvement of the Turkish road system and in particular, the completion of the coastal road in 1960, which meant that goods could be moved from place to place by overland transport rather than sea. I always think of the late 1950s as signaling the end of the first phase of Kalkan’s economic growth. During the 1960s, the local population of Kalkan slowly started to leave the village and because the people were essentially traders, they went to places like İzmir, Antalya and Fethiye, where they were able to establish themselves and conduct their business. At that time Kalkan became something of a ghost town, but it was also round about then that tourism began with the arrival of wealthy English yachtsmen. As early as 1956, Freya Stark was mentioning Kalkan in her book The Lycian Shore Perhaps, within the context of tourism, it should be mentioned that since the early times the wealthy residents of Kalkan have departed to their summer homes in the mountain village of Bezirgan and transhumance still continues today. Akın Oension was the first pension to appear and was quickly followed by other early entrepreneurs like the famous former Turkish rock star Erkut Taçkın (Pasha’s Inn and Lipsos) and Tiraje hanım (Balıkçı Han and the Han). Tourism in general was greatly enhanced in 1984 when the road connecting Kalkan with Fethiye was asphalted. 'Day & Night in Kalkan'Kalkan is a prime location from which a great variety of tours can be organized. Kalkan itself is a very rewarding holiday spot. Start your day with a lazy breakfast on the terrace of your hotel/pension or in once of the restaurants along the marina, watching the heavy traffic of boats moving in and out of the harbor. For your "day on the beach" Kalkan offers you a choice: A large public beach stretches along the front but you will probably discover your own favorite spot somewhere along the coast. The water will always be sparkling clean. You may also choose a very original Kalkan "day-spender" formula: the beach clubs. These are platform beaches accross the harbor, reached by frequent shuttle boat service from the marina. "The platforms" provide everything a holiday-maker can need or dream of, from a sophisticated tequila cocktail to beach mats. This formula is extremely popular among our visitors who will spend their holiday in one of these beach clubs. Every one has a favorite but all offer very good services. They are open all day long and even for dinne by candle light! If your idea of a holiday is discovering a virgin sandy coast you may spend your day at Patara. Beachi one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. Frequent and efficient minibus service from the town square is very cheap. You will find basic restaurants for food and beverages as well as umbrellas, etc. Although much smaller the remarkable sandy beach of Kaputaş, a few miles from Kalkan, is a wonder, do not miss it. Finally, you have yet another way to spend your day in liquid! Several hotels offer excellent swimming pools open to the puclic. After a hot day at the beach you may return to your hotel to prepare for the second part of your day, which often proves to be just as long if not longer than the first : 'Night life in Kalkan' . Your evening may strat by shopping and walkng around in the cool breeze typical at nightfall. All shops stay open until the early hours of the morning and often a silk carpet will be puchased just before returning to your hotel after a long and enjoyable evening. Kalkan has certainly the highest number of restaurants and bars per inhibitant or per square metre on the Turkish coast. Almost every pension or hotel has its roof or terrace-bar serving all kinds of ,nternational drinks or cocktails. After a 'Sundowner' you will find a table in one of the 40 or so restaurants of Kalkan. It would be wise to make a reservation for a front row table. Most of the restaurants offer an open buffet with a great choice of starters (meze) followed by fish or grilled meat Turkish style. For more conservative paletes, international cousine is also available. Prices are displayed at the entrance except for fish, which is subject to bargaining. The Turkish way of dining is to begin with a selection from ten or more cold straters plus two or three hot ones which will be followed by a main course (accompained by raki, wine or beer) and ending with fruit or dessert and famous Tukish coffee. The meal usually stretches for hours and will finish close to midnight. Finally you may walk through the animated cobbled streets and stop to sip a 'last one' before returning to your hotel after a lovely long day.

Lycian Rocky Tombs

Lycian Rocky Tombs 4th century B.C. monuments from the Lycian period within Fethiye draw many visitors. These are tombs excavated into natural rock, which became the symbol of the city. Amintas, the most beautiful and most magnificent of the tombs, can be reached via a stairway leading from the back of Fethiye. This tomb can also be seen from the town itself, but its worth up to admire these tombs closely and you can observe how they desıgned these tombs in the form of İonic temples. At the middle part of the left column, Herparnia s son Amintas is written in th century B.C. script. İdentification of this person is not clearly known. There are many tombs worth seeing, in this region. THe most importent being ones which belong to the Lycian period. Many of these are sarcophagus type tombs, with their pointed lids and a gothic style crests. The sides and crests of the lids often display friezes and reliefs which are said to depict the life of the person buried inside. How to get there: take a Dolmuş to Fethiye, once you get off ask for direction.

Gemiler Island

Gemiler İsland There are churches, chapels and civil building ruins of the Byzantine period, constructed between 5 - 11th centuries AD on the island reached via boats from Ölüdeniz or Gemiler Bay. İt is important as its one of the centers from where Christanity was initially spread. The island is also know as St. Nicolas, and is one of the areas visited on the Blue Cruise route. Both the Gemile Bay and the island are located behind the hill where the Kayakoyu houses stand. The Afkule monastery on the road to the Gemile Bay, carved into the rocks by a monk during the 19th century, is probably the most significant constructionGoing down to the shore from Kayakoyü through the evergreen pine trees, we come to a totally unspoiled beautiful bay which has been declared as a site. It is on ideal spot for having a picnic.This early Christian Island dedicated to St, Nicholas can be visited from the Gemiler Beach below Kaya village or while on one of the daily boat trips out of OludenizHow to get there: Daily boat trips leave Ölüdeniz every morning at 11.00 AM.

Telmessos

Araxa: Founded on the ancient Xanthos river, it is 40 km. away from Fethiye. This extraordinary water spring is referred to in mythology. Rampart ruins, Turkish bath and Byzantine aqueduct remain from the city, and there are found in the environs of the modern day village of Ören. How to get there: Hire a car or take a bus from Fethiye Bus Station.

Araxa

Araxa: Founded on the ancient Xanthos river, it is 40 km. away from Fethiye. This extraordinary water spring is referred to in mythology. Rampart ruins, Turkish bath and Byzantine aqueduct remain from the city, and there are found in the environs of the modern day village of Ören. How to get there: Hire a car or take a bus from Fethiye Bus Station.

Fethiye Castle

Fethiye Castle İt is thought that sitting on the hill above Fethiye was built for the Knights of Saint John. There are two simple and small rock tombs on the eastern face of the hill and a cistern with an unknown history with a some writings carved into the walls. Fethiye City CenterOnce the Lycian settlement of Telmessos, Fethiye is a lively port and market town where Turkish life and tourism exist side by side. Along the pretty waterfront you can watch the traditional wooden gullets, motor launches and fishing boats. At the nearbye Calis Beach all manner of water-sports are availab. In the old port area 'paspatur' sell everything from aromatic herbs to 'designer' clothes, nomadic rugs and hand-crafted jewellery. The famous rock tomb of King Amyntas is visited by many every year.Fethiye Museum The Museum has two exhibition halls namely, Archaeology Hall and Ethnography Hall. In the Archaeology Hall, there are ceramic works and statues. Among these, there is a Young Girl’s Statue with a Dove and a trilingual stele, which has played an important role to analyse the Lycian language. Hand woven works special to the region, silver jewellery and dastar (head scarf) loom are exhibited in the Ethnography Hall. In the open exhibition, big stone works of art, tombs and Izraza Monument can be seen. The Museum is open everyday except Monday from 09.00 to 18.00.

Karmylassos ( KayaKoy):

İt is a Greek settlement founded at the beginning of the 14th century on the site of ancient Karmillassos which was destroyed as a result of earthquackes, expept for a few house type tombs. The foundation period of Karmillassos is not known. İts former name being Levissi, Kayaköys peopels believed humanity was based on the concepts of friendship, brotherhood and peace. According to a population exchange agreement signed between Turkish and Greek governments in 1922, the Green population of Kayaköy was exchanged with the Turkish population residing in Western Thrace. Beyond the Fethiye fortress going south, if you follow the road climbing up to the slope some 7 km. you can come to a magnificent lowland where Anatolian Greeks had lived until 1922. Greeks called the town Levissi in the past. Kaya Koyu in the year 1922 during the exchange of Turks in Thrace with Anatolian Greeks was evacuated and the new residents did not take up the existing houses. Kaya become a “Ghost Town” as an abandoned town after 1923. 2 churches, chapels, numerous houses, schools, library, hospital, work—shops and the other structures will be renovated soon according to a project which is made by The Association of Turkish Travel Agencies and The Chamber Of Turkish Architects. After the renovation, Kaya Koyu will serve as the place of “ Piece & Friendship Village” and be protected forever. From Hisaronu, following the road leading to the west among the forests of pine trees, we reach Kayakoyu, about 3 kms. from Hisaronü. There is also a direct shortcut in the south of Fethiye.In the years of 1900, Kayakoyu was an important settlement center with a population of 20.000. It was vacated in line with an exchange agreement signed between Turkey and Greece in 1924. Today Kayakoy looks like a "Ghost Town" where two churches and a school are in the process of restoration with the aim of establishing a village of peace in the region. On the slopes, there are stone houses built in typical Mediterranean style, not overshadowing one another, schools, churches, chapels, workshops and other buildings, as well as intercrossing narrow streets, all of which ore reminiscent of an architectural laboratory. Kayakoyu is under protection as a prominent sample of the Anatolian cultural mosaic and will become a village of friendship, peace, science and arts in the near future, when the restoration and planning efforts are completed.A few kilometers from Fethiye, climbing past the ancient fortress and rock tomb of King Amyntas, the pine trees give way to the bucolic landscape of the Kaya Village. Here a dwindling number of local families till the land and tend their animals. Some of ld Greek stone houses have been carefully restored to provide atmospheric and peaceful holiday homes. Visitors can walk, cycle or even horse-ride around the pathways and lanes of the valley pausing at the simple teahouses, restaurants and general stores or continuing the few kilometers down to the Gemiler Beach. Perhaps everyone's most vivid memory of Kaya Valley is the haunting choreography of the houses, shops and churches of the once thriving Greek town of Levissii.How to get there: You can take a dolmus from Ovacık or Hisaronu, Alternatively you can do the walk fromm Kaya to Ölüdeniz Beach.

Butterfly Vally

This interesting canyon, surrounded by 350 m. high mountains 3-4 miles away from Ölüdeniz ( Blue Lagoon), took its name from the butterflies called Jersey Tiger seen between the months of July and September. You can reach the vally by boat from Ölüdeniz beach and once there you will find a camping area with tens, restaurant, bar, showers, changing, etc. İts the perfect get away from it all place with a beautiful pebble beach, clear water and no large hotel developments to spoil the beauty of the area. İt is popular place for backpackers and nature lovers alike. A walk to the back of the vally takes you to a waterfall and many wildflowerts can be seen along the way. The Valley of Butterflies is one the most beautiful bays of Fethiye. Located on a flat level ot ten hectares at the foot of a sleep and deep valley. Like an open-air museum, exhibiting oil species of butterflies living at sea level araund the Medifenanean, one can follow the life span of 30 different daytime bulterflies as well as 40 night-flying moths, tor nine to ten months of the year, starting with the spring The Valley of Butterflies may be rached by service boats from Olüdeniz, as well as by flying with parapante from the 1975 meter-high Babadag. There is no overnight accommodation in the valley since construction is not permitted, but it is possible to stay in tents or in wooden sheds covered with shrubs and leaves. After enjoying a swim in the turguise w'alers of the tiny cove, a surprise awaits those taking a walk among the rich flora. Two small waterfalls Is at the end of steep and high cliffs seem like a delightful heaven. In recent years, this region has been included in the trekking route along the Lycian road. A small resturant in the valley provides food and beverage.The fauna in the Valley of Butterflies at Fethiye is similar to that in Rhodes. It is a great pleasure to watch the Jersey tiger Butterflies, which are of special interest for lovers of nature, as well as for researchers of flora and fauna, in this paradise right along the torguise-colored sea wafer. A project is under way to protect the site and present this beauty to researchers and tourists in better conditions. With the establishment of a butterfly museum as well as a research institute, laying the foundations of echo-tourism, the Valley of Butterflies will be an immortal natural heaven. In the "Valley of Butterflies" you can re-discover Fethiye, which is the shining light of the echo-world.Butterfly Valley is a great day trip from Oludeniz. It is home to the unique Jersey Tiger butterfly. Between June and September, butterflies in thousands of colours and countless varieties can be seen here. This valley is an interesting canyon with steep cliffs up to 350 meters high and stretches back from the cove some 3-4 kilometers. To get to Butterfly Valley, you can take a boat from either Oludeniz or Fethiye Taxi boats leave from Ölüdeniz three times a day in both directions - an alternative for the adventurous and well-shod hiker is to follow the steep and rocky slope down from the upper rim of the valley, following the footpath from in front of "George House," on the road to Faralya/Kabak (gauge about 30 min.). Butterfly Valley with it`s untouched nature, most amazing beach and basic facilities (no electricity, tv or any earthly possesions) - only a small restaurant and simple beach huts - is a total relaxation destination.How to get there: Butterfly Vally boats leaves Ölüdeniz 4 times a day.

Fethiye 12 Islands

Named by fishermen as İnside the Darkness, composed of islands and the Kapıdağ Peninsula, adorned with numerous bays, each one more beautiful than the other, it is a favourite place of blue voyagers,Yassica İslands, Hamam ay, Kurşunlu Bay, Yavansu, Bedri Rahmi Bay, Tersane İsland, Göbün Bay, Boynuzbükü, Göcek İsland, Domuz İsland, Zeytin İsland, Kızıl İsland can be reached via daily tours from Fethiye and Göcek and are also named as 12 İslands. This is one of the regions most attractive and popular areas to visit.boat tour in the azure waters of the Mediterranean, visiting attractive coves and islands, where history and natural beauty embrace each other, is no longer an impossible dream. A blue voyage in a typical Turkish schooner-type boat is an exceptiona holiday project. The islands and coves you can visit during a blue voyage starting from the port of Fethiye can be listed as follows: Eskimegri (Şovalye Adasi).The island, located on the north of the port of Fethiye, controlling the entrance to the harbour, had always carried a strategic prominence in history. During the 15th century, the Rhodian knights built a fortress on the island, thus having control of the city for a long time. This was also true during the late Roman period, as evidenced by the existing ruins of the walls of the fortress, houses and cisterns on the island, as well as unearthed pieces of mosaics. Today the island is a summer resort and a site for daily excursions, and there are one hotel, two opart-hotels, one restaurant, with a beach and picnic areas. It is at a.distance of 1.5 miles to Fethiye, and during summer months there are daily dolmus boat services between the hours of 10.00 and !9.00, The Sovalye island, cooled by the Mediteiranean breezes even on hottest summer days, is one of the ''must" spots in Fethiye.Part named by fishermen as "Inside the Darkness", composed of islands and Kapıdağ Peninsula, adorned numerous bays, more beautiful than one another, is the resort place of blue voyagers. YASSICA Islands, Hamam Bay, Kurşunlu Bay, Yavansu, Bedri Rahmi Bay, Tersane Island, Göbün Bay, Boynuzbükü, Göcek Island, Domuz Island, Zeytin Island, Kızıl Island, reached via daily tours from Fethiye and Göcek, are also named as "12 Islands" within the region and holds the characteristic of most important attraction area How to get there: Daily boat trips from FethiyeKizilada At sun-set, the rays redden the soil and stones and the island looks totally crimson, hence the name Kizilada. With the exception of the lighthouse and the residence of the keeper at the southern tip, there is no other but ding on the island. The Deliktas islands of various sizes at the northwest are very convenient for divers and fishermen. The eastern shore of Kizilada, which is protected from waves and quite suitable to cast anchor is a cove where the blue voyagers and daily boat tours stop over.Katranci AdasiThe island fakes its name from the Katranci Cove facing it, renowned as one of the prominent camping sites of Fethiye. It is not a convenient landing place for boats 'but is a favourite spot for ardent fishermen.Gocek lsland Facing Gocek, which is an attractive town especially for yachtsmen, this island has many coves where boats can land.This pleasant island covered with pine trees, is p peaceful haven for swimming aha' casting anchor. Yassica Islands This group of 5 islands of various sizes is the spot when boats on daily excursions stay the longest. The northern tip of the main island, lying in the direction of south-north, has a beach ideal for swimmers. The area is a center of entertainment where various water sports take place. Touring among the islands, separated from each other with narrow straits, and encountering new attractive sites at every bend, is a fulfiling adventure. Only the Hacı Halil Island (Zeytinii Island) at the southern end of the Yassica Islands is a private property. Here there is an olivepressing workshop from the Ottoman times. Tersane IslandTersane Island is the larqesi one in the region, with many ruins of buildings dated to the early Roman era most of wlhich have the feattures of typical Mediteiraneon arohitecture.the island is so named because there was a dockyard here in the; old days for the construction, maintenance and repair of small boats A stop-over on the four of twelve islands, at present it is inhabited by a few families raising livestock and farming. There are two coves called the summer harbour and the winter harbour by the fishermen, which are the safest and most protected spots for casting anchor.Domuz (Prens) IslandIt is called Domuz Island due to the presence of wild boars living here and Prens Island because a prince had a house in this island about a quarter of a century ago. It is possible to see the ruins surrounding the island, now submerged into the sea. There is a harbour convenient for the boats to land.Goblin CoveAs you enter the Karanlik içi, the Gobun Cove is hidden in the south, with its thick mantle of pine trees and an antique ruin on the shore purported to be a bath, which is found irresistible by the Blue Voyagers. With innumerable royal tombs on the hills, winkinq at you among the greenery, and ruins of the Kaunus cull, this is one of the most fascinating coves in the region.To feast on baked fresh fish and bread at the restaurant on the shore and to watch the sun rise from the top of the hill are extraordinary features of the Goblin Cove.Hamam (Manastir) CoveHamam Cove heads the list of primary stop-overs of the boots on the Blue Voyage, with its unbelievably beautiful sea and nature. In a typical Medietrranean manner, people are convinced that Cleopatra once swam here and so the site is called the Cleopatra Cove. It is disputable whether or not Cleopatra waded into the sea here, but there is no doubt that she would have admired the place hod she seen it!On the eastern face of the isthmus befrween the Kurdoglu cape and the mainland, there are submerged ruins of a building. It is not certain whether this was a bath or a manastery from the Byzantian times. It is purported that the cape is named after a pirate called Kurdoglu and the ruins are part of his residence. Silvery stones and walls 'are buried in deep blue waters. Around the cove, covered with pine trees and shrubs, there are many more significant and insignificant ruins. The Kursunlu Cove with a great wall cutting across the isthmus is very convenient for an overnight sto- over, Yavansu is located near the Hamam Cove and from there, after half-an-hour's walk, the antique city of Lidae is reached on the hill, which must be visited by impassioned lovers of history.Tasyaka (Bedri Rahmi Cove) At the Tasyaka Cove, facing the Tersane Island, a fish painted on a large rock greets you. It is no surprise to see that the fish, painted by Bedri Rahmi Eyüboglu during one of his famous blue voyages, still preserves its vital colours. The cove has the only spring of drinking wafer in the region. Casting anchor at the Tasyaka Cove, visiting the rock tombs on the slopes, and wandering beneath the pine trees. Words are not sufficient to describe this experience; you have to go and see for yourselves. Sailing from Gocek to the islands, the first stop-over is Ak Bükü, where the slopes ate covered with pine trees, all the more fascinating with the sea displaying the most provocative shades of blue and the liguid amber trees at a little distance from the shore. Moving on towards the south, the Kapydag Peninsula is the apple of the eye for the Blue Voyagers, decorated by Boynuz Bükü with its coves lying one inside the other; Sarsyla which is the last accessible cove by land, Kille and other innumerable coves. How to get there: Daily boat trips from Fethiye.

Fethiye - Tlos

45km. away from Fethiye it is one of the principal 6 cities of the Lycian Federal Union and is the city which Mythological hero, Bellerophon was supposedly buried. His tomb with reliefs of him and his winged horse Pegasus can be seen here. İt is one of the oldest cities of the Lycian region and was founded around 2000 B.C. İts graveyard, established over the naturel rock of the acropolis, is decorated with most beautiful house type tombs. There are also ruins of a castel situated on top of the acropolis, remains of a Roman gymnasium and baths and a large theatre with many datailed carvings.

How to get there: Daily trips to Tlos from the hotel or if you want to be littel more adventures you can hire a moped for a day.

Hidden City Saklıkent

İt is 50 km. away from Fethiye and within the territories of Kayadibi Village. This naturel gorge is 18 km. long its height reaches 600 m in places. İt is an unique tourism center, with mountaineering, trekking, rafting and swimming possibilities for people fond of nature. Its steep, dramatic rock formastions and clear cool waters make it spectacular area to exsplore. High in the mountains above Fethiye rushing torrents cut a narrow gorge / canyon through the mountains, creating Saklıkent Gorge. A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklıkent Gorge is a favourite picnic spot with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. It is 50 km. away from province center and within the territories of Kayadibi Village. It is a natural miracle secreted within 18 km. long, and its height reaches 600 m. from place to place, unique canyon. It is an unique tourism center, so wing mountaineering, trekking, swimming possibilities for people fond of nature with steep rocky mountains, plane trees and clearly flowing ebullient springs.The Saklikent Canyon, at 50 kms. from Fethiye, is a natural wonder. The Canyon is 300 meters deep and 18 kms. long, resulting from the abrasion of the rocks by flowing waters over thousands of years. As the level of water rises during winter months, visitors can enter the canyon only in the summer. If taking photographs is among your hobbies, you can snap extraordinary sights of unspoiled, natural beauty at Saklikent On the platforms erected over the water flowing in great speed inside and out of the Canyon, visitors are served trout and traditional pastries, which enrich and enhance a holiday. It is possible to reach Saklıkent by minibuses or daily tours organized by travel agencies. During a 45-minute trip, as you pass, through small villages, you can witness the authentic rural life-style and see the plantations of tobacco, cotton anaseed, sesame and wheat, as well as greenhouse for growing vegetables. There is a secure service bridge for entrance to the Canyon. From the very beginning, the visitors are fascinated by the spring water crashing in white foams and the heavenly greenery of the surroundings.Saklikent is a haven in the suffocating summer days, and the 3-km. walk, wading in the cool water, is an ideal sport for everyone.The story of how Saklikent was discovered is quite interesting. During the reseach in connection with the venture of a shepherd to establish a trout farm in the region, a service bridge had to be constructed here, thus opening the doors of this secret paradise to the visitors. At first the Canyon was considered only for trout farms, but plans had to be extended to meet the requirements of the visitors due to ever-increasing popularity of the area. Saklikent is also a focal point for geologists and speleologists. 3 kms of the 18-km. Canyon may be covered by wading into the water and stepping over rocks. If you are an adventurer and wish to go further, you must have the necessary professional rigging and suitable clothing for this hard task.High in the mountains above Fethiye, rushing torrents of icy cold water cut a narrow gorge through the mountains over thousands of years, creating Saklikent Gorge. A natural wonder, the resulting canyon is 300 metres deep and 18 kilometers long and offers visitors one of the most breathtaking excursions in all of Turkey. Saklikent Gorge has walls reaching a height of 300 metres and is navigateable for the first 18 kilometres. (Hidden Valley) Saklikent in Turkish means "Hidden City".. The walls are so high that they cut out most of the sunlight and the fresh spring waters that flow through are freezing cold!. A cool refuge on hot summer days, (Hidden Valley) Saklikent Gorge is a favourite picnic spot where rustic restaurants overhanging the river serve delicious fresh trout and other local delicacies. You may reach Saklikent, 31 miles (50 km) to Fethiye, by car or with one of the tours organised from Oludeniz- Fethiye.How to get there: Daily trips to Saklıkent, if you want to be littel more adventures you can hire a moped for a day.

Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz)

Ölüdeniz (Blue Lagoon), is referred to as the Eden besttowed by god to the Word. İt is a populer tourism center and its long beach stretches down to a lagoon in which all tones of green, blue and violet can be seen. Recently paragliding has become a popular sport here with the scenery around. Ölüdeniz. There are numerous touristic facilities such as restaurants, shops and bars and the beach are has shower, toilet and changing facilities. dolmuses. You can comfortably swim in the bay here for 10 months of the year and there is a regular dolmuş service to and from Fethiye throughout the day and into the evening during the summer months.Explore Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz) where the calm crystal water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. Blue Lagoon is located near the famous tourist resort of Fethiye, Belcekız Beach and protected as one of the natural parks of Turkey.It is one of the spots most favoured by the, word tourism of today. It is located at a distance of 15kms.from the center of the town. It is surrounded in the east by Kıdrak and the Valley of Butterflies and, in the west, by Gemiler and coves at the mouth of the valleys descending from the foot of Babadag The sand and pebbles of the vast coastline of the Belcegiz beach, carried in the direction of northwest by the waves and the wind, create a barrier between the open sea and the calm lagoon. That is why the region is called Olüdeniz, meaning stiI as a cadaver. The lagoon reaches a depth of approximately 40 meters towards the north, while it becomes shallow, down to 5 to 1 meters. in the southern part. The Kumburnu Strait, at the entrance of the lagoon from the open sea, is narrow and shallow, with a width of about 50 meters and a depth of 8-9 meters.Climbing up the high, green slopes around Oludeniz, one can see the chrystai-clear waters, allowing for the perception of the sea-floor especially at the Kumburnu beach, displaying transformation from torguise to green and to various shade of blue. Due to its extraordinary natural beauty, the pearl-white sandy beach and the crystal-clear sea water in azure colour, Olüdeniz and the -neighbouring little coves like Ovacık, Belcegiz and Kidrak, are renowned all over the world as a tourism center.At present Ovacık, Hisaronu and Oludeniz has a total bedding capacity of 20,000 in all standarts, ranging from first- class holiday villages to small boarding houses and campsites. The temperature of the sea water does not get below 19 C even in winter months and the average day-and night difference is around 12 C which makes this region on ideal spot for winter tourism.Oludeniz is a stunning bay, with a laid-back atmosphere, one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. It's lagoon, now a protected area, has understandably adorned a million picture postcards. Oludeniz's main beach is bordered by an attractive promenade lined with small shops, cafes and restaurants making it ideal for a classic beach holiday. However the surrounding area has much more to offer an adventurous visitor. Paragliding from the heights of Babadag Mountain , trekking along the Lycian Way, a boat trip to the Butterfly Gorge, visiting some of the sites such as Xanthos, Tlos and Letoon are among the many possibilities.How to get there: Take a dolmus to Fethiye, once you get off ask for directions.