Vibrant Fethiye is a well-known jump-off point for the infamous Mediterranean blue cruises in Turkey. From here you can begin to sail around Turkey in luxury exploring all the natural aquatic wonders this beautiful country has to offer. A trip to Olympos, Rhodes, and the 12 Islands are only a few of the magical places that are just a short sail away.
Nevertheless, there are many more attractions that bring people to this charming town throughout the year. From historical sites scattered in the town centrum and surrounds, to the world-famous beaches – you will not be sorry you have booked to stay more than one night. Here are our top things to do in Fethiye:
Kaya Koy & Afkule Monastery
Fethiye has a rich history ingrained into every aspect of the town and villages surrounding. For those keen to learn about Fethiye’s interesting history and roots a visit to Kaya Koy should be on your list. A short drive from Fethiye, Kaya Koy is an abandoned Greek settlement that was abandoned after the population swap following World War 1. White concrete houses cover the hillsides, as well as beautiful old Greek churches. Take a walk through the ruins and pop down the hill afterwards for a drink and the famous Turkish pancake, Gozleme.
For those feeling energetic, there is a beautiful walk from the top of Kaya Koy, all the way to Oludeniz. This takes 2-3 hours.
A short distance from Kaya Koy is the monastery of Afkule. This is a well-hidden gem, sitting atop of the cliffs and impressive views over the Mediterranean. The walk is rough, so take good walking shoes. It takes approximately 15-20 minutes from the main road up to the monastery walking.
Camping at Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley is located at the bottom of a large cliff in the Taurus Mountain range nearby the famous Oludeniz beach. Basically untouched, Butterfly Valley is made up of large looming mountains that drop straight into the blue and aqua waters below, a small sandy beach and a few huts for people to stay in overnight. With no road leading into Butterfly Valley, it is only accessible by boat or a difficult trek from Faralya. For those looking for a more exotic experience, pack a tent and catch the small water taxi to Butterfly Valley to spend the night. You will be amazed at how peaceful it is with the beautiful Turkish sky lighting the night.
Shop at Fethiye Paspatur
Not only is Fethiye full of rich history, but markets and local shops selling everything from Turkish kilims to Turkish delights. The shops of the old town of Fethiye are owned and ran by locals, often pieces are one of a kind and at a very reasonable price. The local markets nearby also sell genuine fake watches, clothes and handbags. The only problem with shopping is hoping you have saved enough space in your bag to get home!
Visit Saklikent Gorge
Perfect for a hot summer’s day, Saklikent is a 300 meter deep and 18km long gorge which suggests it is one of the largest on the world. The waters of the gorge come from the melted snow of the Taurus Mountains and are amazing to walk through in the peak of summer. There is also tube rides or many cafes to hang your legs over the rocks into the cool waters. To enter the gorge is 5TL but the rest of the park is free. Buses depart from Fethiye regularly throughout summer and also visit Yaka National Park and Tlos Ancient City.
Paragliding over Oludeniz
Babadag (Father Mountain) towering above the magnificent Oludeniz on the Southwest coast of Turkey is considered one of the best flying points in the world for paragliding. Beginners to the most experienced pilots in the world travel to Turkey to experience this thrill-seeking activity with one of the best backdrops to the 45-minute glide. Jumping from 1600 – 2000 feet and flying over Oludeniz beach and the famous Blue Lagoon, it is without a doubt something NOT to be missed. Farout offers both pickup and drop off to your hotel in Fethiye with their paragliding trips.
Jump on a blue cruise
We highly recommend not to miss a Fethiye to Olympos 4 day/3 night blue cruise, it will change your life! However, if you are short on time, there are also daily boat trips available. Some of the sites you can see on blue cruises include St Nicholas Island, Butterfly Valley, 12 Islands and the Fethiye Blue Cave. Farout offer trips on both double-decker boats and sailing gulets.
Day trip to Rhodes
A short boat trip away is the Greek Island of Rhodes. Ferries depart from the Fethiye harbour throughout summer in the morning and return in the afternoon. Rhodes is full of history, cafes, beautiful beaches and shopping delights. A day return ticket to Rhodes from Fethiye on the ferry costs 60 euro and is suggested to be booked at least 1-2 days in advance. At high season it is suggested booking at least one week in advance.
Pamper yourself
Especially for those travelling for a while, you may have started to look a bit fatigued – Fethiye has an abundance of hairdressers, barbers and nail bars. Get your hair washed and blow-dried or get a close shave. Why not go the full extent and have a Turkish bath (Hammam). With a steam, sauna, exfoliation and bubble bath massage. You will feel a million bucks afterwards!
This is just the tip of the iceberg, Fethiye is full of fun and activities for those active travellers or close to many private bays for those who would like to relax and enjoy the sunshine. For more tips or more activities in Fethiye contact us or check the Farout Turkey Fethiye Tours page