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 The
popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of
Marmaris, boasts an important marina at the head of a
beautiful bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the
ruins of the crusader fortress built by the Knights of
Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the town, (called
Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs,
reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into
the cliff face. The Tomb of Amyntas, which probably dates
from the fourth century B.C. is the most remarkable.
Swimmers
head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometres west of
town, or to Şövalye Island, opposite the harbour, which
blazes with flowers in the spring.
The
road to Belcegiz Bay takes you through the mountains where
cozy guest houses cater to those seeking mountain scenery.
Ocakkoy is the mountain village that is a must see, stay in
one of the lovely guest houses, and enjoy the numerous
trekking possibilities. Hisarönü, also in the mountains,
has very nice hotels. 4 km from Hisarönü, Kayaköy is a
picturesque ghost town of old houses and churches - all
empty. Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon, Ölü
Deniz, 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 except
soak up the sun amid stunning natural surroundings. At Mt.
Baba (1,969 m), you can paraglide into the Blue Lagoon. For
those who' prefer accommodation facilities, Belcegiz beach
is recommended. Intoxicating scenery surrounds Kıdırak's
beach and shady park. On Gemiler Island (St Nicholas's
Island), Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines. South
of Kıdırak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat.
Beyond the idyllic beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley
filled with hundreds of varieties of butterflies await the
explorer. High in the mountains above Fethiye rushing
torrents cut a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating
Saklıkent (Hidden City). A cool refuge on hot summer days,
Saklıkent is a favourite picnic spot, with rustic
restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. 36 km south of
Fethiye, Yakakoy (Tlos) is the Oldest city in the Lycian
region. The home of the Lycian Hero Bellerophon, visitors
can see the remains of a castle, agora, necropolis, theatre,
Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley. 2 km east of the
villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picnicking. Pınara, 49 km
south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city; it is
ideal for trekking and visitors can see the remains of a
theatre, agora, rock tomb, baths and ancient brothels.
About
65 km from Fethiye, to the southeast, near Kınık, are the
ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a splendid
natural setting. Letoon, nearby, was formerly an important
religious cult center where three temples dedicated to Leto,
Artemis and Apollo stood in ancient times.
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