SPORTS

Tandem Paragliding (local)

For those with a sense of adventure, this is the a sport unique to Olüdeniz. A tandem flight from the plateau of the highest local mountain, 6500 foot-high Babadag. Highly qualified and experienced pilots take you on the flight of your life. Having taken just a few short steps you will be airborne and suddenly surrounded by absolute silence and the incredible vista of Olüdeniz, the mountains and the coast beyond opening up beneath your feet. Words cannot express the elation you will feel during this chance of a lifetime experience

 

HISTORICAL SITES

Ephesus (250km)

One of Turkey's greatest sites. Ephesus was one of the most important cities in the ancient world, once capital of Asia Minor and with a one-time population of 500,000 people.

Just a few miles away lies the house of the Virgin Mary where she is believed to have spent her last days after being entrusted by Jesus to St.John. The site was discovered due to the visions of a German and is now a beautiful and peaceful spot converted into a chapel visited by Christians and Muslims alike.

Tlos- :Pinara's sister city. ~5 km. from Fethiye on the Saklikent road. This was the home of the legendary hero Bellerophon, who, with his winged horse Pegasus, slew the fire-breathing monster the Chimera further east near Kemer. Theater with fine carvings, picturesque baths and Acropolis Hill with rock tombs.

Xanthos - One of the area's most important historical sites, this former capital of Lycia has a fine amphitheater and tombs.

 Kayakoy (2km)

 - Formerly a Greek village of 3500 houses, abandoned during the Turkish War of Independence. Also an ancient Lycian site. Remains of churches, schools, stores and houses can be seen. Nowadays something of a ghost town, attempts continue to revive Kayakoy as a village of peace and friendship. 7km. south of Fethiye, the energetic will enjoy the walk from Kayakoy down to Olüdeniz.

 

NATURAL BEAUTY

Pamukkale (300km)

Pamukkale is a wondrous site with cotton castle like formations which have been formed over thousands of years by the limestone rich thermal springs cascading down the hillside.

Olüdeniz (Belcekiz) - One of the regions main resort areas, Olüdeniz remains relatively unspoilt and you will be enchanted by its turquoise waters, white beach and lagoon, sheltered by sweet-smelling pine-clad hillsides. Olüdeniz is fed by cold-water underground springs and manifests a different and individual beauty at different times of day. Yachts are not allowed to enter the Bay of Olüdeniz in sum-mer in order to prevent pollution. Pensions, restaurants and coffee-houses are to be found in the locality and the area is full of beautiful picnic spots. Sea excursions may be taken to all parts of the locality.

SAKLIKENT - About 45 km. from Fetbiye on the Antalya road, Saklikent is a canyon on the torrential Xanthos river where the 300 m. walls exclude all sun. Excellent trout restaurants. Famous for the taste of its natural spring waters.

 

NATURAL BEAUTY/HISTORICAL

Dalyan & Caunos (Mudbath & Turtle Beach) - (50km)

One of the most relaxing and scenic days out in this area. After a short coach journey from Ernur apart, your day will be spent on a boat meandering down the river delta, through the reeds where "African Queen" was filmed.

Starting at Dalyan, a small fishing harbour, you will pass en route to the sea the ancient Lycean rock tombs which have been hewn out of the cliff face. A call is made to the sulphur pools by the rivers edge where you can wallow in the mud (this is alledged to cure every illness under the sun).

Finishing off with time to relax on the golden Sands of' Turtle Beach where the delta runs out to sea and the waters of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas meet. This beach is the second-most important breeding ground of the Loggerhead Turtle and thanks to local and international pressure is now a conservation area where building and the infringements of mass tourism have so far been limited.

 

WATER

Boat Trips (local)

There are many boat trips available locally from either Olüdeniz or Fethiye. Examples are either the Five Islands Trip from Olüdeniz or Twelve Islands Trip from Fethiye.These are both full days out on small boats which enable sunbathing from the upper deck and many stops at the islands which allow time for swimming breaks in the lovely clear water. It is well worth having a diving mask and snorkel with you, if you have them.

Scuba Diving (local)

Daily dives and courses are available for both complete beginners and experienced divers. Qualified in PADI ,CMAS and SSI the instructors and dive teams are always fully experienced and the clear waters of the Fethiye Gulf are ideal for scuba.

Rafting (50km)

Kayaking and rafting both take place on the Dalaman River. The river passes through remote and spectacular canyons and you can experience grade 4-5 rapids, under the control of a professional river guide.

 

VEHICLES

Jeep Safari

There are many local tour operators that run jeep safaris. These generally go to Tlos, Yaka Park, Saklikent, Xanthos, Lettoon and finish the day with an hours swimming session at the glorius Patara beach.The rounfd trip is about 180km and this is a very entertaining day out. If you want to drive, you can, although a driver will be supplied if that is your wish.

Car/Jeep/Motorbike Hire

All are available locally for any number of days.

 

MARKETS

Hisaronu Market is held on Mondays and the massive Fethiye market is held each Tuesday. Don't forget to haggle!