Villa Besh is near Kaya, a sleepy village 8km south of Fethiye in southwestern Turkey. Nestled in the mountains and overlooking Kaya Valley, it’s a quiet spot and is an ideal place to go walking or hiking. The famous and atmospheric Kayakoy Ghost Town is only 1.1km from the villa – with abandoned Greek houses and buildings – and you’ll find traditional restaurants and shops in the area too.
For keen walkers, there are a myriad of trails from Kayakoy Ghost Town, which lead to remote beaches like Cold Water Bay (around 5.5km away) – a stunning family-friendly bay with turquoise swimming waters and a soft, sandy shoreline – or to the monastery ruins of Afkule (around 4km away), dramatically perched on a cliff ledge above the sea.
The town of Fethiye is a 15-minute drive to the north. It's best known for its natural harbour and ancient rock tombs including the 4th-century B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, carved into the mountains. You can browse the markets in Fethiye and pick up fresh produce or sample the local delicacy – delicious gözleme (thin dough crepes). Then, finish off the day with a treatment at one of the Turkish Baths. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars for a drink or bite to eat.
Near-shore islands are popular for day trips by boat. 20-minutes to the south is the sandy beach at Ölüdeniz, which is sheltered by a lagoon and is prime swimming and water sports spot due to its crystal-clear and calm waters. You can also head 24km to Butterfly Valley – a designated nature reserve, which is a (you guessed it) valley home to diverse butterfly species.
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.
