Introduction
Fethiye, located on the southwest coast of Turkey, is a popular yacht charter destination that attracts travelers from all over the world. With its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich history, Fethiye offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, indulging in delicious Turkish cuisine, or simply lounging on a pristine beach, Fethiye has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Fethiye and wondering what to see and do, look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the top 10 must-visit attractions in Fethiye, from historic landmarks to natural wonders and everything in between. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the best of Fethiye!
Places to Visit in Fethiye
Ölüdeniz
Ölüdeniz is undoubtedly one of the most stunning natural wonders in Turkey and a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Fethiye by yacht. This beautiful lagoon, located just a short distance from Fethiye, is surrounded by pine-covered hills and boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and a picture-perfect beach that has been repeatedly voted as one of the world’s best.
The Ölüdeniz beach is a long, white sandy stretch with calm waters that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. It’s also the perfect place to simply relax and soak up the sun while enjoying the stunning views. The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it easy to grab a bite or a refreshing drink.
For the more adventurous, Ölüdeniz is an ideal spot for paragliding, with its impressive Babadağ mountain providing a dramatic backdrop. The views from above are simply breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the lagoon, the beach, and the surrounding mountains.
Apart from paragliding and swimming, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Ölüdeniz. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore the hidden coves and secluded bays of the surrounding coastline, or go scuba diving to discover the underwater treasures of the Mediterranean. The Blue Lagoon, the name given to the beautiful bay within the lagoon, is a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
One of the best things about Ölüdeniz is that it is easily accessible from Fethiye, with regular buses and water taxis running from the town. Alternatively, yacht charters can anchor in the sheltered bay and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the lagoon.
Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful spot in Fethiye that should not be missed on a yacht charter. This secluded valley, located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, is named after the numerous butterfly species that call it home. Its unspoiled nature and stunning scenery make it an ideal spot for anyone seeking a peaceful and picturesque retreat.
The valley is surrounded by towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and cascading waterfalls that create a spectacular backdrop. The crystal-clear waters of the river, which flows through the valley and empties into the sea, are perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day. The sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, while the shallow waters make it a great spot for children to play safely.
The name Butterfly Valley comes from the large number of butterfly species that can be found here. These include the endemic Jersey tiger butterfly, which is unique to this region of Turkey. In addition to butterflies, the valley is also home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including rare birds, reptiles, and mammals.
One of the most popular activities in Butterfly Valley is hiking. The valley offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that lead visitors through stunning landscapes and offer spectacular views of the sea and surrounding cliffs. The most popular hike is the trail that leads to the waterfall at the end of the valley. The trail takes around 45 minutes and offers stunning views of the valley and the sea.
TIos
Tlos is an ancient city located in the southwestern part of Turkey, near the popular tourist destination of Fethiye. It is believed to be one of the oldest and largest settlements in the Lycian region, dating back to the 4th century BCE. The ruins of Tlos are a popular destination for those on a yacht charter, as they offer a glimpse into the ancient history and culture of the region.
The city of Tlos was built on a steep hill, which provided natural protection from invaders. It was a major center of trade and commerce in the region, and its strategic location made it an important political and military power in the ancient world. The city was inhabited for several centuries, and as a result, it is home to a wide range of ruins and structures from different time periods.
One of the most impressive structures in Tlos is the acropolis, which sits atop a steep hill overlooking the city. The hike to the top of the acropolis is steep and challenging, but the views from the top are breathtaking. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient fortifications, which include walls, towers, and gates that were used to defend the city from invaders.
Kabak Cove
Kabak Cove is a secluded cove located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, near the popular tourist destination of Fethiye. It is known for its tranquil and natural surroundings, as well as its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Kabak Cove is a popular destination for those on a yacht charter, as it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The cove is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, which provide a natural barrier from the outside world. The secluded location of the cove ensures a sense of tranquility and serenity, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The waters of the cove are crystal-clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Aside from water activities, visitors can also enjoy hiking in the surrounding hills and forests. The area around Kabak Cove is home to many scenic trails and paths, which offer stunning views of the landscape and the sea. Sunbathing is also a popular activity in the cove, as there are many secluded spots where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.
Babadağ
Babadağ is a secluded mountain located in the southwestern part of Turkey, near the popular tourist destination of Fethiye. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. Babadağ is a popular destination for those on a yacht charter, as it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
The mountain is surrounded by lush green forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the sea. The area around Babadağ is rich in flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The tranquil and natural surroundings of the mountain provide a sense of serenity and calm, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the area.
One of the most popular activities to enjoy in Babadağ is paragliding. The mountain is known for its excellent paragliding conditions, with many local tour operators offering guided paragliding tours. Visitors can soar through the air and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the sea, mountains, and forests.
St. Nicholas Island
St. Nicholas Island, also known as Gemiler Island, is a small island located off the southwestern coast of Turkey, near the popular tourist destination of Fethiye. It is known for its historical significance and the ruins of ancient churches, monasteries, and other structures that can be found on the island.
The island was once an important center of early Christianity and was home to a thriving community of monks and other religious figures. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of ancient churches and monasteries, as well as other structures that date back to the Byzantine era. The island also offers stunning views of the surrounding sea and landscape.
Aside from exploring the ruins, visitors can also enjoy hiking and swimming on the island. The area around St. Nicholas Island is home to many scenic trails and paths, which offer stunning views of the landscape and the sea. The waters around the island are crystal-clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Saklıkent National Park
Saklikent Canyon is a natural wonder located in the Fethiye region of Turkey. It is a narrow canyon that stretches for 18 kilometers and reaches a depth of 300 meters in some places. The gorge is formed by the melting snow and rainwater that flows down from the Taurus Mountains.
Saklıkent National Park is a popular destination for adventure-seekers, particularly those who enjoy hiking and rafting. The hiking trails in the gorge offer stunning views of the natural scenery, including the towering walls of the canyon, rushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams.
For those who are looking for an even more exhilarating experience, rafting is also available in the gorge. The rapids in the gorge are generally considered to be of moderate difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are specific rules and regulations for anchoring in the bays around Fethiye. Yacht charters are required to adhere to the regulations set by the Turkish Ministry of Tourism and the local authorities. Anchoring is only permitted in designated areas and it is not allowed to anchor in environmentally protected zones. In addition, it is important to respect the local flora and fauna and not to cause any damage to the natural environment. Yacht charters should also be mindful of other boats in the area and not create any disturbance or hazard to other vessels.
– Choose the right yacht for your needs and budget.
– Plan your itinerary in advance and research the must-see attractions in the area.
– Check the weather conditions before setting sail and be prepared for changes in weather.
– Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the yacht trip, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
– Make sure to stock up on food and drinks before setting sail.
– Be mindful of the local culture and customs, and respect the natural environment.
Yes, it is possible to visit all 7 must-visit attractions in Fethiye on a single yacht charter trip, depending on the duration of the trip and the itinerary planned. The 7 must-visit attractions include the Blue Lagoon, Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz Beach, St. Nicholas Island, Tersane Island, Gocek Islands, and Saklikent Gorge. With careful planning and efficient use of time, it is possible to visit all of these attractions in a single trip. However, it is important to note that the time spent at each attraction may be limited and the itinerary may need to be adjusted based on weather conditions and other factors.
Yes, there are several environmentally-friendly practices you should follow during your yacht charter in Fethiye. These include disposing of waste properly, using eco-friendly products, avoiding anchoring in environmentally protected zones, and respecting the natural environment. It is also important to conserve water and energy by minimizing the use of air conditioning and other amenities on the yacht.
