About the Area
Turkey’s south-western Mediterranean coast is often referred to as the Turquoise Coast, an area surrounded by breath taking views, with stunning mountain backdrops and pine-clad forests. Its beauty is unquestionable. There are numerous well-known ancient ruins throughout the area, and stunning scenery abounds.
Ölüdeniz
Ölüdeniz is one of Turkey’s most acclaimed beach resorts, and probably the most photographed, as it has almost certainly featured in more holiday brochures than elsewhere in the world.
The beautiful turquoise waters of the bay and lagoon bask beneath the Babadog Mountain, from where, if you wish, you can paraglide down to the beach promenade below, taking in one of the most stunningly beautiful views in the world.
The lovely Ölüdeniz lagoon is a conservation area, and there is a small, but very worthwhile charge for entry to the lagoon beach where the shallow waters are ideal for children. Between the shimmering Mediterranean and the glorious beach, a lush green strip of grass and leafy trees provide welcome shade alongside a splendid collection of restaurants and beachside bars serving up a great cocktail of chilled drinks and chilled sounds.
Ölüdeniz is a mere five minutes Dolmus ride away from Hisarönü (£1 per person).
Orka Hotel have a private beach on the Lagoon, exclusively for the use of hotel, and Village residents. A daily shuttle service is available from the Village to the Lagoon and back
Fethiye
Fethiye is a pretty, bustling town set at the foot of the pine-clad Mount Mendos, and on a curving, deep blue, island–scattered bay. The town has a lovely harbour, with a maze of streets lined with restaurants, bars, and shops selling all kinds of locally-produced merchandise, including leather goods, jewellery, carpets, spices, and designer clothes, and watches (at rather less prices than the originals).
There is a large and entertaining market every Tuesday, a vegetable market, and a fish market with adjacent restaurants which will prepare and cook your purchase to your specific requirements.
The promenade accommodates a vast selection of small and large craft offering day (and longer) trips around the islands. A day out in beautiful Fethiye bay cannot be too highly recommended. Stop at local islands, swim off the boat in warm blue waters, and enjoy a barbecued lunch on board. Most operators will offer to pick you up in the morning and return you to the villa in the evening.
Fethiye is about 15 minutes away by Dolmus (£1.50) per person.
Hisarönü
Hisarönü is in a tranquil setting, nestling at the very fringe of the pine-clad mountains above the splendid Ölüdeniz lagoon, its cooler temperatures welcoming you back from a hard day relaxing on the beach before you venture out for your evening’s entertainment.
Not so long ago, a sleepy village, it is now a lively holiday resort in its own right, retaining its friendly vibrant feel with a terrific selection of family bars and restaurants, with plenty to offer for all age groups.
It is an ideal base for walkers, as there are plenty of winding paths through the forests, with wonderful views of the surrounding scenery. There are many activities and attractions in the Hisarönü area, including five and twelve island boat trips, horse riding, quad biking, white water rafting, gulet cruises, jeep safaris, paragliding, various water sports, scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing.
Excursions include visiting the ancient tombs and ruins at Tlos, Xanthos, with the beautiful site of Pinara being one of the three major cities in the Xanthos valley, and one of the principal cities of Lycia.
The Dalyan river cruise will take you through the Dalyan marshes where the ‘African Queen’ was filmed, and from where you will see the Lycian rock tombs dating from the 5th century BC, to the famous Turtle Beach, one of the last breeding grounds of the loggerhead turtle.
The nearby Greek ghost town of Kayakoy presents an opportunity to delve into an extraordinary chapter of local history, whilst around Kaya village the country lanes are sprinkled with traditional Turkish farming communities and tiny villages with simple rustic restaurants.
There is a weekly Monday market in Hisarönü, offering the full range of wares for locals and tourists.
Hisarönü is mostly closed during the Winter months (November to April), but there are always a few bars, hotels, and restaurants open all year round, and Ölüdeniz beach has restaurants open.
Hisarönü village centre, the taxi rank, shops and the supermarket are five minutes walk from the villa.
Club Orka Hotel
Club Orka Hotel is located about 15 minutes walk away, at Ovacik. It comprises hotel, and dining facilities, three swimming pools (one inside, heated), including children’s section with a slide. The hotel facilities, including Turkish theme nights and bar-b-cues are available to villa residents, and a shuttle service is provided to ferry you to and from the villa.