Attractions Nearby Oludeniz, Day Trips and Excursions

(Oludeniz, Mugla Province, Turkey)



View of Butterfly Valley (also referred to as Faralya)The fantastic surrounds of Oludeniz add further appeal to its dreamy beaches and setting. A large variety of nearby attractions are worth checking out, as well as plenty of other towns and villages in the region for those with itchy feet.

The Butterfly Valley and the Saklikent Gorge are two must-sees for the adventurous, being perfect for day trips from Oludeniz. These attractions are to be found in the same general direction - south and south-east - and close to each other, making it easy to visit both during one excursion. The nearby town of Fethiye makes another interesting outing, as do Dalaman and Dalyan.


Further photograph of Butterfly Valley

Butterfly Valley

The Butterfly Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey. Locally known as Faralya, this remote canyon runs right up to the sea and features a pretty little beach and countless rare butterflies. The best way to reach the Butterfly Valley is to take a boat ride from Oludeniz and approach from the sea, although minibuses also run here. This scenic attraction lies a few kilometres south of town and also comes with good walking, waterfalls and swimming.

Image showing the Saklikent Gorge, a canyon attraction at the Ak Dag Mountain

Saklikent Gorge

Lying just over an hour to the south-east of Oludeniz is the Saklikent Gorge, a deep canyon carved into the Ak Dag Mountain. Powerful waters have cut a 480-metre / 1,575-foot deep slice out of the mountain and visitors are able to clamber through this gorge, enjoying some truly remarkable views. There is also good walking within the area and plenty of indigenous flora to see.

Picture of the harbourside attractions in nearby Fethiye, next to Oludeniz

Fethiye

Fethiye is the main town in the area, lying just a few kilometres to the north, over the mountains. This is a fairly touristy town with a marina and far more attractions (other than the beach) than Oludeniz, such as its ancient ruins, rock tombs and well-preserved Lycian sarcophagus. Fethiye also has a good supply of shops and eateries, and comes with an excellent Turkish bath.

Photo showing the ghost town of Kayakoy

Kayakoy

This deserted town in the mountains was inhabited by Greeks until the 1920s, when they were turfed out of Turkey. The ghost town makes an interesting side trip from Oludeniz and is easily accessed from Hisaronu, located a few kilometres to the west via a valley road. You will see hundreds of dilapidated abandoned houses, some of which are being restored. The Turks have always refused to inhabit the town, as they believed it to be cursed.

Aerial photograph showing the Dalaman area

Dalaman

Dalaman is sited to the north-west, between Oludeniz and Marmaris, and is home to the airport. This is a peaceful place to visit and lies inland, surrounded by mountains, whilst also being close to the coast. Dalaman has all the facilities of a proper town, as well as a slice of traditional Turkey. There are many archaeological sites nearby, along with treks into the mountains, white water rafting on gushing inland rivers and pretty beaches.

View across the neighbouring village of Dalyan

Dalyan

Not far to the north-west of Dalaman is the pretty village of Dalyan, known for its mud baths and rock tombs. A beautiful part of the south-west, Dalyan can be reached on a day trip from Oludeniz.

Options for activities are diverse, with a natural spa being one of the main attractions. You can also go on a boat trip, see the ruins of Caunos port, or check out the beautiful Turtle Beach.