Fethiye, in the Muğla province in southwestern Turkey, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean due to its lush vegetation and soft sandy beaches. It’s a charming place where yachts and cocktails cohabit happily with quaint winding streets. Karatavuk Cottage is in rural and sleepy Kayaköy, 8km south of Fethiye, where there’s a famous abandoned Greek village.
Nestled in the mountains and overlooking Kaya Valley, it’s an idyllic spot where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Head to the atmospheric ghost village – the inspiration for Louis De Bernier’s ‘Birds without Wings’, novel – and explore the ruined buildings, or visit one of the local restaurants to try a Turkish delicacy like Menemen, scrambled eggs cooked in sautéed vegetables.
You’ll also enjoy a serene and bohemian atmosphere, and if you enjoy walking, there are plenty of routes. Stroll under the canopy of trees and check out Lycian Way – a series of paths from Kayaköy ghost village to remote beaches like Cold Water Bay (a family-friendly coastline with turquoise swimming waters and a sandy shoreline) – or cultural sites like Afkule (around 4km away). They’re monastery ruins dramatically perched on cliff ledges above the Aegean Sea.
In livelier Fethiye Town to the north, visit ancient rock tombs such as the 4th-century B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, carved into the mountains. For foodies, there’s a fish market and other markets that sell everything from rugs to fresh produce. You can sample delicious gözleme (thin dough crepes) here and then visit one of the Turkish Baths for a relaxing treat.
The Region
The "Ghost Town" of Kayaköy was once inhabited by a substantial Greek Orthodox Christian; Artisans who left for Greece in the populations exchange 1923. Many of the old stone houses have been brought back to life and the village is again alive. There is a bohemian feel and a mix of restaurants cater for those enjoying the healthy village air. The cute beach at Gemiler is the closest place for sea swimming here. The area was the inspiration for Louis de Bernieres’ novel Birds Without Wings. Whilst here do try the local Gozleme pancakes.
Local days out include the resort of Gocek along the coast, Tlos ancient site and the Saklikent Gorge. Slightly further afield are Dalyan or going south, Patara for its sandy beach and ruins.
