Introduction
Nestled on the southwestern coast of Turkey, the picturesque town of Oludeniz is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its crystal-clear waters, soaring mountains, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that Oludeniz is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. However, despite its popularity, there are still hidden treasures in the region waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will take a closer look at four coves that are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. From the Blue Cave to the Aquarium Cove, let’s explore the natural wonders of Oludeniz, Fethiye and the surrounding area.
- Blue Cave – Located on the coast of Oludeniz, the Blue Cave is a natural sea cave that gets its name from the stunning blue color of the water inside. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the cave and witness the mesmerizing shades of blue that reflect off the cave walls.
- Butterfly Valley – As the name suggests, this valley is home to numerous species of butterflies and is a natural wonderland with waterfalls, streams, and a beautiful beach. It’s a great spot for hiking, camping, and relaxing.
- St. Nicholas Island – This island is steeped in history and is believed to be the final resting place of St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. Visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient Byzantine monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding sea.
- Aquarium Cove – This small, secluded cove is perfect for snorkeling and diving, as the crystal-clear water is home to a wide variety of marine life. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning scenery and relax on the beach.
A small neighborhood and beach resort, Oludeniz is located in the Fethiye district of the Mugla province and is home to one of the most photographed beaches in Europe. The area has a rich historic and cultural heritage, stretching all the way back to Lycian and Medieval civilizations. Literally translated to “Dead Sea”, it is officially known to the world as Turkey’s Blue Lagoon for its stunningly tranquil turquoise waters. A true natural wonder, Oludeniz attracts troves of both foreign and domestic tourists each and every year, and it is an ideal spot to add to a sailing route.
To explore the region, charter a boat in Fethiye and make sure to add Oludeniz to your sailing route! You will be able to enjoy the best of the region by boat as well as by the myriad of activities of watersports and other activities available for tourists. Why not try water-skiing, jet-skiing, paragliding, diving or snorkeling to truly indulge in the breathtaking nature and scenery. You will be able to get plenty of information about each activity at the agencies on land, in the Belcekiz district, and you can also ask for advice from the captain and crew on board.
While in the region, we highly suggest that you also pay a visit to Butterfly Valley. This hidden paradise was named for the 80 different species of butterfly that are native to the region, flourishing here in mountainous and woody areas. The scenery is truly magnificent, and you won’t want to miss this spot on your sailing holiday through Fethiye.
Popular Coves Close to Oludeniz
Blue Cave
A fascinating stop that you have to add to your sailing route, the famed Blue Cave is known for its deep but nearly translucent waters, allowing perfect visibility of the seabed. This is a good spot to make a day visit to and enjoy snorkeling and diving.
The Blue Cave is a natural wonder located on the coast of Oludeniz, Turkey. This unique cave gets its name from the mesmerizing blue color of the water inside. The cave is accessible by boat, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the wonders of the Turkish coastline.
One of the most remarkable features of the Blue Cave is the deep, translucent water that allows for perfect visibility of the seabed. Visitors can see the underwater world in all its glory, with schools of fish, vibrant coral, and other marine creatures visible in the clear water. This makes the Blue Cave an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving.
A day visit to the Blue Cave is an unforgettable experience. The cave is surrounded by stunning scenery, with soaring cliffs and verdant hillsides providing a dramatic backdrop to the crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the cave and witness the mesmerizing shades of blue that reflect off the cave walls.
Overall, the Blue Cave is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Oludeniz. Its unique beauty and accessibility make it a popular spot for tourists, but the experience of swimming in the translucent waters and exploring the underwater world is a truly magical one that cannot be missed.
Butterfly Valley
An untouched paradise, Butterfly Valley is a huge draw for ecotourism and attracts visitors looking to totally immerse themselves in nature. The region takes its name for the 80 different butterfly species that originate here. The most commonly encountered variant here is the Jersey Tiger Butterfly and you will likely spot these black, white and red marked species during your stay. Butterfly Valley, which remains so untouched and protected as it is only accessible by sea, was chosen by WWF as one of “Europe’s 100 Forest Hot Spots” due to its rich biological diversity. The site was also declared a natural site on February 8, 1995 and was from then on closed to any development or construction. Make sure to add this to your route, we guarantee you won’t regret it!
St. Nicholas Island
St. Nicholas Island, also known as Gemile Island, is home to a large church that was first constructed and used between the 5th and 11th centuries. The church is a remarkable example of the rich cultural history of the region, as it dates back to the early Christian era and the Byzantine Empire period. The island boasts a wide array of different archeological ruins, as well as remnants of cisterns and another small church. The most notable remains of the island are the ruins of some parts of a tunnel that connects the two churches. Most of the remains on the coast are now underwater after flooding that occurred in 240-241 B.C. and can be explored by diving to a depth of 2 meters.
Aquarium Cove
The name of this spot gives away its best features! Stop by to revel in truly dazzling aquarium-like waters, and enjoy full visibility while you swim along with the colorful fishes. This is the perfect place for snorkeling or diving enthusiasts and is truly worth a visit. You will be stunned by the lush nature, the shades of turquoise and green, and the abundant underwater life.
One of the most popular and most touristic provinces in Mugla, Fethiye is frequented regularly by both local and foreign tourists. Rent a boat through viravira.co to head out on your own sailing holiday and enjoy the best that the region has to offer, from natural wonders to archeological ruins.
FAQs
The Blue Cave is located on the coast of Oludeniz and can be reached by boat. Visitors can take a boat tour from Oludeniz to the cave, which usually includes stops at other nearby coves and beaches.
The best time to visit Butterfly Valley is between May and October when the weather is warm and the valley is at its most beautiful. However, visitors should be aware that the valley can get crowded during peak season.
St. Nicholas Island is believed to be the final resting place of St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. The island was home to an ancient Byzantine monastery, which was destroyed by pirates in the 11th century.
Aquarium Cove is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, octopuses, and sea turtles. The water is crystal-clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.
