Dalaman-Gocek-Fethiye Region travel guide

 

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Dalaman Sulfur and Mineral Thermal Water

In Dalaman district, the naturally occurring sulfurous water, containing 17 minerals and maintaining a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius year-round, is only a 5-minute drive from Dalaman Pension.

The water's mineral content is unparalleled in the world. It contains 17 minerals and can be used in the treatment of psoriasis. It also helps treat muscle and knee pain. Due to its high selenium and calcium content, it is also used directly for skin diseases.

Currently, citizens can spend the whole day swimming in the mud and pools of sulfurous water, which they visit with their families for day trips. Located next to the International Airport, on the road to the azure Sarsala Bay, the naturally occurring sulfurous water, which maintains a temperature of 28 degrees Celsius year-round, attracts a constant stream of visitors.

Göcek 12 Islands boat tour

Göcek 12 Islands tours depart daily at 10:00 AM from the Göcek coastline on daily excursion boats with a capacity of 50-100 people. Arriving at least 30 minutes early will give you more freedom in choosing your table. For a safe tour, excursion boats are strictly prohibited from carrying more passengers than their permitted capacity. Tea service is available from 9:00 AM until departure. You can bring snacks to accompany your tea if you wish. The boat typically departs around 10:00 AM. The tours allow you to see all the Göcek islands, with at least 5 swimming stops and a one-hour lunch break. The excursion boats have a small bar where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Swimming noodles are also available on board. The 12 Islands tour concludes at 6:00-6:30 PM in Göcek, with the final stop being the Yassıca Islands.

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INLICE BEACH

Inlice Beach is a beach located in the Fethiye district of Muğla. Those wishing to reach Inlice Beach by private vehicle should continue from Dalyan towards Fethiye. After passing Göcek, they will see a sign for Inlice. They can reach the beach by following the Inlice sign. After turning at the sign, they can reach the beach after continuing for about 4-5 kilometers. Since the region is mountainous, there are sharp bends on the road leading down to the beach.

For those wishing to reach the beach by public transport, minibuses depart from Dalaman. Similarly, minibuses are also available from Göcek.

Inlice Beach Features

Inlice beach has a very large coastline. To meet the needs of beachgoers, there are showers, changing rooms, toilets, and a cafe operated by Fethiye Municipality. The showers, changing rooms, and toilets are free of charge. Cafe prices are quite reasonable as it is run by the municipality.

The sand at Inlice beach is hard. The sea is generally shallow, but it suddenly deepens in some areas. Therefore, those who cannot swim well should be careful. It may also not be suitable for families with children. Behind Inlice beach, there is an area used as a picnic area. Because it is a suitable area for picnics, it attracts many tourists not only for swimming but also for barbecuing. The area is also suitable for barbecuing.

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Sarsala Bay

With its small pier, sheltered and unspoiled structure, and peaceful waters, Sarsala Bay is located approximately 15 kilometers from Dalaman district of Muğla. With its preserved nature and deep blue sea, this bay truly resembles paradise. It captivates with its beauty at first sight, and swimming in its clear, pristine waters is truly enjoyable.

Sarsala Bay, located within the boundaries of Kapukargın village in Dalaman district of Muğla, one of the settlements in Turkey that is home to some of the most beautiful bays and beaches in the Aegean Region, hides magnificent nature behind its numerous winding hills. Those who reach Sarsala cannot hide their admiration for the unique scenery they encounter. With its calm and peaceful sea, Sarsala Bay is a refuge for boats and yachts. Its beach, bearing the bay's name, is a place where you can enjoy swimming without fear thanks to its calm waters, although it is a little stony. It is a popular beach for both local and foreign tourists, as well as the local people.

Since the water is not cold, it is possible to swim in Sarsala even in the spring months as the weather warms up. After swimming in the clear blue waters of Sarsala, you can explore the region and the magnificent nature of Sarsala by following the paths in the rocky areas surrounding the beach. In addition, in the rocky area, you will also see the old customs warehouse building, which has historical value.

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GÜNLÜKLÜ BAY BEACH

Günlüklü Bay is located on the Göcek highway in Fethiye. Approximately seventeen kilometers from the town center, the bay is about ten kilometers from the town of Göcek.

It is a popular destination for those who want to spend a day trip enjoying both nature and the sea. The bay welcomes visitors with its shaded natural environment, sheltered by dense trees, offering a refreshing escape from the scorching sun.

The name Günlüklü comes from the Günlük trees found in the region. These trees play a significant role in the production of medicines and perfumes. The unique scent that envelops Günlüklü Bay in the early morning and at sunset comes from these trees. You can spend a pleasant day amidst the rare Günlük trees and the uniquely beautiful Günlük Bay, swimming in the azure sea and enjoying the sun to the fullest.

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YUVARLAK ÇAY 

Yuvarlakçay gets its name from the way its water flows in a rolling motion. Its story goes like this: Yuvarlakçay is the name of the river that feeds Beyobası town and many surrounding villages in Köyceğiz district, famous for its lake in the Southern Aegean. About 200 years ago, the river flowing from the heart of Çiçek Baba Mountain to Köyceğiz Lake dried up… The river, which retreated underground, subjected the local people who depended on this water to seven years of drought and poverty.

As the days passed, the waters, emerging from the ground at the "Topgözü" spring where cannons had been fired to bring them forth, began to flow with a gentle murmur, revitalizing the people weary of waiting. Rolling and cascading, these waters, spreading abundance, reached Lake Köyceğiz, where they took the name "Yuvarlakçay" (Round Stream).

Although not very deep, the swing built on this bubbling, rolling stream has made Yuvarlakçay even more famous. Those who see it are terrified, thinking the water is very deep, but it's not at all. Don't be afraid of falling off the swing! 🙂 This is a magnificent place, visually stunning, like a photograph at every turn; the swings and hammocks make you feel like a child again.

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Sarıgerme (Sarçed) Beach

Sarıgerme (Sarçed) Beach is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in Turkey. Moreover, it is one of our Blue Flag beaches. Its long stretch of golden sand, sea lilies, and refreshing breeze make it a favorite for some vacationers. However, it is perhaps unheard of by most people in our country. It's not as well-known as Ölüdeniz or Olympos beach. Yet, it is one of our rare and beautiful beaches that those who know it become addicted to.

How about visiting Sarıgerme to add a different flavor to your summer vacation? Whether you go for a day trip or an overnight stay, be sure to visit Sarıgerme (Sarçed) Beach.

Where is Sarıgerme Beach? | Getting to Sarçed

Sarıgerme Beach is located in the Ortaca district of Muğla province. Situated between the two districts of Muğla, Dalaman and Ortaca, the beach is often associated with Dalaman, but it actually belongs to Ortaca. Because it's closer to Dalaman city center, it's become more closely associated with Dalaman.

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ÖLÜDENİZ  ( BLUE LAGOON )

Ölüdeniz Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in our country. For this reason, it is visited by many people every year.

Ölüdeniz Beach is located in the Aegean Region of Turkey. It is notable for the beauty of its sea. Its easy accessibility also contributes to its popularity among visitors. Furthermore, the natural wonders to be seen in the Ölüdeniz town where the beach is located have also played a role.

Information About Ölüdeniz Beach

Ölüdeniz Beach is famous for the beauty of its sea. In fact, its sea has been awarded the best sea prize. The sand on the beach has a fine texture. Also, the sea is calm. The Lycian Civilization once ruled the town where the beach is located. Therefore, remnants from that period can be found.

Where is Ölüdeniz Beach and How to Get There?

Ölüdeniz Beach is located in the Muğla province of the Aegean Region. Located in the Fethiye district of the city, the beach is known for attracting both domestic and foreign tourists. The Lycians called Ölüdeniz a land of the sun. It is also known that Ölüdeniz is located on the Teke peninsula.

Ölüdeniz Beach Features

• The beach is 3 kilometers long.
• The outer surface of the beach consists of sand, pebbles, and stones. The sand is fine-grained.
• The waterbed consists of pebbles and stones.
• Men and women can enter together.
• The beach is accessible by public transport.
• The beach does not have a Blue Flag certification.
• The average temperature of the beach during the season is 27 degrees Celsius.
• There are accommodation options such as hotels and guesthouses around the beach.
• There are cafes, kiosks, markets, and restaurants on the beach.
• The beach provides changing rooms, sun loungers, parking, and shower services.

AŞI KOYU BEACH

If you're looking for a quiet, uncrowded holiday, Aşı Bay is the perfect destination. This bay, where umbrellas aren't crammed together, also boasts a pier that allows you to enter the sea from further out. This aspect offers significant opportunities for those seeking sun and sea.

The bay is a place you'll love for its water color and depth. Even when you go out about 50 meters, the water doesn't reach chest height. Furthermore, Aşı Bay offers some of the clearest waters in the region. Due to the geography of the area, the sea is never a problem with waves. While the water is relatively colder, it's still an ideal spot for swimming. There is an entrance fee for vehicles.

It is 20 minutes from Dalaman.

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DALYAN IZTUZU BEACH 

Iztuzu Beach is located in Dalyan, a town in the Ortaca district of Muğla. Known for its golden yellow and fine sand, Iztuzu Beach attracts a large number of tourists every year. The beach, which stands out with its lush green nature, is also home to Caretta Caretta sea turtles. These endangered turtles lay their eggs on these beaches. Iztuzu Beach is also known to be 4.5 kilometers long.

Nestled in nature, İztuzu Beach stands out with its natural beauty. The beach, where freshwater and saltwater meet, is also home to Caretta Caretta sea turtles. These endangered turtles lay their eggs on land before returning to the sea.

Caretta Caretta turtles can only lay their eggs on clean and natural beaches. This demonstrates how clean and natural İztuzu Beach is. In this sense, İztuzu Beach is one of the rare areas where Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs. The beach is closed to visitors after 8 PM, and no lights are allowed in the surrounding area.

İztuzu Plajı'nın En Önemli Özelikleri

Iztuzu Beach is a natural wonder with many unique features. Located at a point where fresh and salt water meet, Iztuzu Beach stands out for its natural beauty. The river flowing from the mountainous region behind the beach meets the sea here. Furthermore, the Iztuzu sand is covered with yellow sand, known as golden sand. This beach is generally visited by day-trippers. Those wishing to stay overnight can find accommodation in hotels and guesthouses around Iztuzu Beach. Hotels to suit every taste and budget are also located in this area.

Iztuzu Beach was declared Europe's Best Open Space by the British publication The Times. It was also chosen as Europe's best beach in 2011. Therefore, following these selections, Iztuzu Beach hosts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists every year. Also, Iztuzu Beach, which stands out for its natural beauty, is 5400 meters long. A small entrance fee is charged for entry to Iztuzu Beach. Those who wish to rent can also rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a fee. In addition, there is a parking lot at the entrance to Iztuzu Beach. This parking lot is free for visits of up to 15 minutes; after that, there may be a fee..

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Dalyan and the ancient city of Kaunos

Kaunos, which was an important port city in ancient times, lost its port function over time as the sea filled with alluvium.

According to Herodotus, the father of the ruler of Kaunos, Günlük, and his wife were from Crete, but they considered them to be locals. The geographer Strabo also writes that Kaunos had a shipyard and a harbor whose mouth could be closed. The city was founded by Kaunos, the son of Miletus, who was exiled for having an inappropriate relationship with his twin sister. The rock tombs, which can also be seen from Dalyan, were used in the 4th century BC and later in the Roman period. Inside the Lycian-type tombs, three stones lie on top of the deceased. On the facade, two Ionic columns, a frieze above the columns, and a pediment are visible. One of the pediments has lion reliefs.

The Acropolis is situated on a hill 152 meters high. It dates back to the Middle Ages. It stretches from the long city walls of Dalyan Village to the steep cliffs. It was built during the time of Mausolus. The northwestern part is from the Hellenistic period. The part towards the harbor dates from the Archaic period.

The theater is located at the foot of the Acropolis. It has 33 rows of seats. One of the building remains to the west of the theater belongs to a basilica-type church. The others belong to a Roman bath and temple.

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Our Region's Natural Aquarium: Kadın Azmağı

Kadın Azmağı is like a natural aquarium… Visited by at least 1 million people every year, a trip to Kadın Azmağı clears your mind and calms you down. Let's first look at the origin of the name Kadın Azmağı. Azmak means water source. Because the water is very strong and its flow is turbulent, this place got its name Azmak. The story of Kadın Azmağı, which is the original name of the Gökova-Akyaka Azmak river, is as follows: In the past, since there was no water in the villages, the village women would wash their clothes in this river. It has been called Kadın Azmağı ever since.

The Azmak River, located within the borders of Akyaka, is 2 km long and 8 meters deep, resembling a natural aquarium and home to many species of marine life. "A trip to Kadın Azmağı (Women's Azmak) and taking a boat tour is a must. Especially during the summer months, it's a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists on weekends. The boat tour takes 35 minutes, gliding through trees and reeds, offering the opportunity to experience the unique beauty of nature where green and blue embrace, and to enjoy the coolness of the river.

There are restaurants along the Azmak that serve from morning until late at night, offering breakfast as a treat.

The Azmak's water, with its high flow rate and mineral-rich soda content (60%), varies in depth from 40 centimeters to 10 meters. Home to various fish species, including sea bass, mullet, and eel, the Azmak also provides a habitat for many different bird species, including water hens, geese, and ducks.

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KILLE BAY BEACH

Kille Bay is located within the Dalaman district of Muğla province. This bay boasts a very long beach. The mountains surrounding the wide Kille Bay are covered with pine trees. Nearby are the ruins of a historical church. The presence of a freshwater spring in the bay increases its appeal. There are restaurants offering meals in the bay, and many people visit for day trips. The beach is covered with pebbles, so families with children should be particularly cautious when visiting.

Where is Kille Bay?

Kille Bay is one of the bays located in the Dalaman district of Muğla province. Muğla province has many bays. This bay is situated between Boynuzbükü and Taşkaya. It is quite large in area, and swimming is possible in a large part of the bay.

Is Kille Bay Free?

There is no entrance fee to Kille Bay. However, various services within the bay are subject to a fee. It is described as one of the bays preferred for camping.

How to Get to Kille Bay?

To get to Kille Bay, you need to travel to Muğla and then to Dalaman district. If you are in Dalaman district, you need to turn left after the 13th km of the Göcek-Dalaman road. This unpaved road will take you to the bay after approximately 7 km.

What to Do in Kille Bay?

There are many activities to do in Kille Bay. One of them is surfing. The bay, which has many places to swim, is covered with pine trees. It is possible to walk along the paths in the shade of the pine trees. Kille Bay has clear water and there are also street vendors selling various supplies. There is a restaurant in the bay. This bay is especially preferred for surfing in its wavy waters. It is a bay where day-trippers picnic and have a pleasant time.

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Karaot Beach – Fethiye

Located within a protected area, Karaot Beach boasts a fairytale beauty where green and blue embrace, thanks to its untouched natural structure.

Located in Yanıklar Village in Fethiye, Karaot Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil day. With its natural beauty and untouched landscape, Karaot Beach is a true paradise. The surrounding wetlands, citrus groves, and mud-brick houses, combined with the historical charm of Yanıklar village, make for an unparalleled holiday. Exploring the village's paths, getting lost in the greenery, and then finding yourself in the embrace of the deep blue waters offers a truly unique sense of peace. To the west of the beach lies Akgöl freshwater lake and the surrounding extensive reed beds, home to many species of animals and plants. This area also features citrus groves, while the eastern side is covered by a Liquidambar forest that extends all the way to the seashore.

The sandy section where Kargı Sea ends and meets a hill is known as Karaot Beach. The beach's greatest feature is its untouched natural beauty. It's a legendary place where lush green nature embraces the deep blue sea. The area surrounding the beach has been designated as a protected site. The reason is that an endangered species lives here: the Caretta Caretta sea turtle. Many beaches in Fethiye are the natural habitat of these creatures. It is possible to observe the natural life of these endangered animals here.

The beach and seabed are sandy. In this respect, you can be sure you will enjoy it very much.

We can say that the water is shallow at sea level. This feature makes it a preferred choice for those who aren't very good swimmers and for families with children.

There's nothing to say about the cleanliness and clarity of the water. It's crystal clear and vibrant like an aquarium. I say like an aquarium because you can see many marine creatures while swimming.

Since the beach is a protected area, you won't find any facilities there. You won't even find toilets. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks beforehand.

Attention: You can't place your umbrella wherever you want on the beach. This is because loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) lay their eggs everywhere. Umbrella placement is only permitted beyond a certain point.

There are no facilities on the beach offering umbrella or sun lounger rentals. It's also advisable to bring your own food and drinks beforehand.

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KAYAKÖY

The monumental tombs aiming for eternity: Kayaköy's history dates back to 3000 BC. Among the ancient remains in the city, sarcophagi and rock tombs dating back to the 4th century BC have survived to the present day.

Kayaköy also has 350-400 two-story houses, each about 50 m² in size, designed so as not to obstruct each other's views or light. The lower floors are generally used as storage areas, and the houses have underground cisterns at the entrance to collect rainwater from the roof. Numerous chapels, two large churches, a school building, and a customs building are also scattered among these houses and can be visited.

Babadağ Paragliding

Paragliding Runways in Babadağ

Take-off Runways: There are a total of three runways in Babadağ. The 1700-meter south runway is very suitable for take-off. The 1800-meter north runway is a bit smaller and steeper. The 1900-meter north summit runway has a very comfortable take-off area. Generally, flights are made from the 1700-meter runway because it receives a direct southerly wind for most of the day. Around 20 paragliders can be deployed simultaneously on this fairly wide runway.

Landing Runway:

Belcekız Beach on the Ölüdeniz coast is a very comfortable and safe landing area due to its length and width.

Meteorological Characteristics: The weather is consistent throughout the summer season. Sometimes a northerly wind blows in the morning hours, and take-offs are made from the north runways into the valley. The south runway receives southerly winds of 5-20 km/h for most of the day.

Things to Note: Especially during the transitional months at the beginning and end of the season, rapid changes in weather can occur, and clouds may descend on the take-off area. On the southern runway, the westerly wind coming from the western end of the mountain during the midday hours can create a false southerly wind, causing deception.

Flight Safety

In Babadağ, the Babadağ Paragliding Guidelines must be followed to ensure flight safety and standards for single and tandem flyers.

Babadağ Paragliding Guidelines

Tandem Flights:

Tandem paragliding pilots possess a T2 certificate/license demonstrating their competence. Things to consider during tandem flights:

1) The health and physical suitability of the passenger is important. It is especially recommended that individuals with significant health problems such as heart disease, asthma, epilepsy, physical disabilities, or those exceeding the weight limits should not fly.

2) It is mandatory for both the pilot and the passenger to use harnesses with a T-lock system.

3) Weather conditions must be suitable for flying.

4) Flight attire must be worn. 

5) Before the flight, the pilot provides the passenger with an informative briefing on the flight plan and area introduction, takeoff procedures, and conditions during flight and landing. 

6) Wearing a helmet with chin guard, boots, knee pads, and gloves suitable for flying is mandatory. 

Single Flights: For single flights, at least a P3 certificate/license is required, and for flights conducted under the control and responsibility of an experienced pilot/instructor pilot, at least a P2 certificate/license is required. Single pilots must have a certificate/license.

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General Description of Dalaman River Rafting

After transfers from the designated points, arrival at the main facilities is arranged. Customers sign insurance forms, the purpose of which is to prevent any problems arising from health conditions that may occur during the tour.

Individuals with a history of heart problems, pregnant women, those with asthma, and those who cannot swim are not allowed to participate. Life jackets, helmets, and paddles will be selected and provided according to their size. Meanwhile, boats are loaded onto the second transfer vehicles, and the second, exciting transfer through the mountains with scenic views begins. Customers may only bring small items that fit in our waterproof bags, such as sunscreen, cigarettes, and a lighter. Since there is no possibility of using electronic devices on the river, cameras, photographic equipment, mobile phones, or similar electronic devices should not be brought.

After the second transfer from the facility, the participants arrive at the beginning of the river entry point. Extensive information is provided in Turkish, English, and Russian. This information covers what the participants should do in the boat and on the river.

Then, one by one, the participants, along with their professional guides in the boats, are launched into the water to experience the thrill of the course. This 12 km long course is very fun and high in adrenaline. You will pass through approximately 8-10 rapids, which vary depending on the rainy season. While paddling through the raging waterfalls along the river, you can relax in naturally formed jacuzzis and enjoy nature by swimming in the calmer parts of the river. At the end of the river, the boats are lined up one after another and tied to the tour boat located at the Akköprü dam. After a short canyon trip, you arrive at the facility. Here, guests unwind from the day's fatigue by having lunch and watching the photos and videos taken during the day.

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Scuba diving centers in our region

DALYAN SCUBA DIVING

FETHIYE SCUBA DIVING

OLUDENIZ SCUBA DIVING

In Dalyan, Fethiye, and Ölüdeniz, popular tourist destinations near Dalaman, you can enjoy scuba diving, one of the most popular water sports, with professional teams and equipment. Do you scuba dive? It doesn't matter if you don't. If you're ready to explore the mysterious underwater world, you can take your first step by trying a "discover scuba dive." Whether you're an experienced diver, inexperienced diver, or even a novice diver, Dalyan, Fethiye, and Ölüdeniz offer suitable diving spots. These areas are considered among the most beautiful diving spots in Turkey. Upon reaching your designated dive site by boat, you'll first receive a briefing from your instructors about the spot, then put on your equipment and dive into the water. The rest will be a dream you won't want to wake up from.After choosing the region where you want to experience diving, you can contact one of the diving companies in that area to get detailed information.