Fethiye

This region shows the diversity that makes the Lycian Coast so special. Dramatic mountains and beaches, cosmopolitan ports, rustic villages and the scattered islands of the gulf all combine to provide some of Turkey’s most impressive coastal scenery. The forest-clad mountain range reaches as far as the eye can see, providing the dramatic backdrop to the plains, coastal towns, villages and beaches that are scattered throughout the region.
This region is the heart of ancient Lycia and host to a number of historic sites amongst which Kadyanda, Kaunos, Tlos, Pinara, Letoon, Xanthos and Patara are particularly noteworthy. The Gulf is also rich in scenic opportunity with plenty to explore – including the stunning beaches of the Fethiye Peninsula, the market town of Fethiye itself, the fascinating ruins of the old Greek settlement at Kayaköy, and the remarkable Dalyan Delta together with the mountain ranges themselves.
The Gulf of Fethiye is one of the most beautiful gulfs in the world. There are 12 islands, small and large and many bays, one more beautiful than the other in this gulf situated between the capes of Kurtoglu and Iblis and covered with pine forests. The bays and islands which are ideal shelters for yachts. These extremely beautiful bays and coves will make you have a very good time here. The first island near Fethiye in the gulf is named Sövalye Adasi (Knight's Island). The island succeeding it is Kizilada (the Red Island). In the north, there are the islands of Deliktas and Tavsan. The island of Katranci is located opposite the bay named Küçük Kargi Koyu This part of the gulf is more interesting because of its verdure and exquisite bays. There are many coves surrounded by green forests on the eastern shores of the Gulf of Fethiye, similar to the ones on the opposite shores. The bays of Katranci, Küçük Kargi and Inlice are situated here.
The bustling harbour and market town of Fethiye is on the south-eastern corner of The Gulf. It is the major commercial centre of the region and provides some fascinating sights and sounds, particularly on market day each Tuesday. On market day the roads are full of vehicles of all types – from old American trucks, to horses and carts spilling over with all manner of produce destined to create the vibrant colors and smells of the market.
Fethiye retains a decidedly Turkish feel. Exploring the warren of shop-lined streets in the old quarter is a fascinating experience. Restaurants are abundant, and the authentic feel of Turkish life permeates the whole area, giving a real insight into town life in Turkey.
Once you sufficiently explored Fethiye you may then go out on day long excursions to such ancient cities as Pinara at Minare village, Tlos at Doger, and Sidyma at Dodurga returning to Fethiye in the evening. There are also other ancient sites like Kadyanda in rather inaccessible places. One day excursions are also possible to the ancient cities of Xanthos, Letoon, and Patara in the vicinity of Fethiye Worth to See Around Fethiye
Oludeniz
Explore the bay and beautiful Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz) where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the world to do absolutely nothing but soak up the sun amid stunning natural surroundings.
KARMYLASSOS
So beautiful is the Karmylassos (Kayaköy), so rich the soil, so tranquil the air and so slow the pace of traditional rural life, that, it is hard to believe the bustling Fethiye and famous Olu Deniz beach are only a short drive away. The dreamlike beauty of Kaya Valley is magnified by the evocative ruins of the abandoned Greek village of the same name.
Tlos
36 km south of Fethiye, is the oldest city in the Lycian region and the home of the Lycian Hero Bellerophon. Visitors can see the remains of a castle, the agora, the necropolis, the theatre, Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley.
Saklikent
High in the mountains above Fethiye a rushing torrent cuts a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating Saklikent Canyon 44 km south of Fethiye. A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. You can also visit the old fashioned carpet and kilim weavers.
Letoon
At the Lycian cultic center of Letoon, six km far from Xanthos, three temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar gods of mythology, await the exploring tourist.
Xanthos
The ancient Lycian capital of Xanthos, today in the Turkish village Kinik, lies 18 km north of Patara. The theatre, Tomb of the Harpies, Nereid Monument, agora, and Inscribed Pillar, among a mixture of ruins from Lycian, Roman and Byzantine times, create a special atmosphere at this site.
Dalyan (Kaunos) The maze of channels is easily explored by boat as you immerse yourself in this tranquil dream world. Restaurants which line the waterways specialize in delicious fresh fish. Magnificent tombs were carved into the rock high on the cliff face, at a bend in the river, above the fascinating ancient harbour of city Kaunos.
Kaunos
The Dalyan Delta, with the long, golden, sandy Iztuzu beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and blue crabs.