Visit the Butterfly Valley on a day trip from Fethiye
Whether you’re taking a shore excursion while cruising the coast or holidaying in the Turkish Riviera, the sun-soaked port town of Fethiye makes an ideal base for exploring the highlights of the Turquoise Coast. From visiting an ancient Greek city to hiking through Turkey’s longest gorge, here are a few of the best day trips from Fethiye.
1. Ephesus
Once a significant commercial and religious center during Greek and Roman times, and now renowned as one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus makes an obvious choice for a day trip from nearby Fethiye. Wander around the fascinating ruins, which include highlights like the Celsus Library, Great Theatre and Fountains of Trojan, then marvel at the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
2. Dalyan
A Dalyan Day Trip From Fethiye has to be one of the most unique options, including a cruise down the scenic Dalyan River and a soak in the region’s famous mineral mud baths and thermal springs. As well as enjoy the dramatic scenery, you’ll get to visit İztuzu Beach, an important breeding ground for loggerhead turtles, and see the ancient Kings’ Tombs of Kaunos, carved into the cliffsides overlooking the river.
3. Ölüdeniz and the Butterfly Valley
Less than 30 minutes south of Fethiye, the seaside resort town of Ölüdeniz offers a tranquil retreat from the city, where you can stroll along the beaches or try paragliding over the striking coastal lagoon. Alternatively, take an Ölüdeniz boat trip from Fethiye and cruise to nearby sights like the colorful Butterfly Valley, home to the rare tiger butterfly, among many others; St Nicholas Island, where you can explore the ruins of a hilltop monastery; and the Blue Cave, where the azure waters are ideal for swimming.
4. Hike through the Saklikent Gorge
Venture out on a 4×4 safari to the Saklıkent Gorge, Turkey’s longest and deepest canyon, which is more than 18 kilometers long and 300 meters deep. Hiking through the gorge is possible in the summer months, but prepare to get wet, as you scramble over streams and beneath waterfalls, then finish off your trip at the nearby Patara Beach.
- Contributed by Zoe Smith
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