Exploring Fethiye and Around

By. Justin Mays

The famed Turkish Riviera has something for everyone. Centered about the thriving market city of Fethiye and its environs this has long been a favorite area for foreigners going even as far back as the legend of Mark Anthony gifting this coast to Cleopatra. The recently upgraded international airport at Dalaman is the gateway to this part of the Turquoise Coast. Before arriving to holiday homes in Fethiye you will drive through agricultural areas where you can pick up fresh fruits and village provisions from farmstands. As you make your way to your property in Turkey you will revel in the scent of mountain pine and sparkling views of endless secluded coves. This southwestern coastal region of Turkey was home to the Lycians, whose once thriving cities and rock tombs have left many exciting sites to explore. 

For those who want to be part of a sizable established expat community and have access to absolutely everything, we recommend buying Fethiye apartments or homes in the city. The marina pulses with activity and it is a transportation hub with the larger bus station and water taxis. 

For those wanting to be close to the much-photographed Oludeniz Bay on the outskirts of Fethiye, peaceful Ovacik and the livelier Hisaronu are where you should focus. Both towns are slightly inland and have good transportation options and access to everyday necessities plus a high concentration of fun British pubs for those times you want to be social. Fethiye villas are easy to find here and there is a yearround population.

Moving west from Fethiye, you’ll find the resort center of Calis popular with buyers looking for quick access to the beach. Calis is one of the most popular tourist areas of Fethiye with a 4 km long sandy beach, the promenade is full of restaurants, pubs and hotels. Surrounded by mountains, the village of Gocek is the center for yachting in Turkey. Favored by elite travelers, this is one of the starting points for the popular blue cruise on traditional gulets or mega yachts. Once you are out on the sea from either Fethiye or Gocek marinas the bays are dotted with islands and opportunities to find a secluded cove to swim in.  Riverside Daylan with its dramatic backdrop of Lycian tombs lit up at night, is home to a burgeoning community of expats. The seven-mile stretch of sandy beach at Iztuzu is famous for its loggerhead sea turtles, and much of this area is a wildlife preserve.

Inland from Fethiye, fantastic villages are waiting to be explored. Situated in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains the incredible green scenery and breathtaking views will draw you in. Serene Uzumlu village is gaining popularity with people opting to buy land and build their dream Fethiye villa. Seydikemer located between Fethiye and Kalkan, offers a relaxed lifestyle and is among the most affordable areas in the region. Still close to the bustling Fethiye, these hospitable villages also feature local shops, direct access to rich agriculture, and are close to restaurants. It offers rural living at its best without compromising creature comforts or needs.