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FETHIYE
The
road to Fethiye winds up and down hills through a
heavily forested region that offers occasional
glimpses of the sea and an islet or two basking in
total seclusion. The Gulf of Gocek and its friendly
marina is one of the Mediterranean's best sailing
spots. Dotted with islands and indented with many
coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The
ruins of Arymaxa, an ancient city at the southern tip
of the gulf, lie at the edge of the azure waters.
Opposite, on Tersane Island, stand Byzantine ruins,
including those of the ancient shipyards. 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 kilometers west of town, or to Sovalye (Knight)
Island, opposite the harbor, which blazes with flowers
in the spring.
The
road to Belcekiz 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 hiking possibilities. Hisaronu,
also in the mountains, has very nice hotels. 4 km from
Hisaronu, Kayakoy is a picturesque ghost town of old
houses and churches - all empty Explore the bay and
the beautiful Blue Lagoon, Olu 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 seeking accommodation facilities,
Belcekiz beach is recommended. Intoxicating scenery
surRounds Kidirak's beach and shady park. On Gemiler
Island (St. Nicholas's Island), Byzantine ruins lie
tucked among the pines. South of Kidirak 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 a
rushing torrent cuts a narrow gorge through the
Mountains, creating Saklikent (Hidden City). A cool
refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite
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 picnic.
Pinara, 49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient
mountain city; it is ideal for hiking 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 Kinik, 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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