KÖYCEGIZ
(CAUNOS)
The
town of Koycegiz lies at the northern end of a lake of the same name and
is joined to the Mediterranean by a natural channel. This unique environment
is being preserved as a nature and wildlife sanctuary. A road shaded with
aromatic frankincense trees leads to the tiny village of Dalyan on the
inland waterway. The maze of channels is easily explored by boat as you
immerse yourself in this tranquil dream world. The restaurants which line
the waterways, specialize in delicious meals of fresh fish. High on the
cliff face, at a bend in the river, above the fascinating ancient harbor
city of Caunos, magnificent tombs were carved into the rock. The Dalyan
Delta, with a long, golden sandy beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation
area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and blue crabs. At
Ekincik, a delightful yacht mooring, you can enjoy the breathtaking beauty
of this area. Only a half hour's drive from Dalaman Airport, Sarigerme
has wonderful sandy beaches, and a pleasant holiday village discreetly
situated in a pine forest. The Dalaman River is the best for rafting and
the best time for rafting is between May and October.
FETHIYE
The
road to Fethiye winds up and down hills through a heavily forested region
that offers occasional glimpses of the sea and an islet or two basking
in total seclusion. The Gulf of Gocek and its friendly marina is one of
the Mediterranean's best sailing spots. Dotted with islands and indented
with many coves, its land and seascapes are irresistible. The ruins of
Arymaxa, an ancient city at the southern tip of the gulf, lie at the edge
of the azure waters. Opposite, on Tersane Island, stand Byzantine ruins,
including those of the ancient shipyards. The popular resort Fethiye, 135
km southeast of Marmaris, boasts an important marina at the head of a beautiful
bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the ruins of the crusader fortress
built by the Knights of Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the town,
(called Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing
the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. The Tomb
of Amyntas, which probably dates from the fourth century B.C. , is the
most remarkable. Swimmers head for the popular Calis Beach, four kilometers
west of town, or to Sovalye (Knight) Island, opposite the harbor, which
blazes with flowers in the spring. 
The
road to Belcekiz Bay takes you through the mountains where cozy guest houses
cater to those seeking mountain scenery Ocakkoy is the mountain village
that is a must-see. Stay in one of the lovely guest houses, and enjoy the
numerous hiking possibilities. Hisaronu, also in the mountains, has very
nice hotels. 4 km from Hisaronu, Kayakoy is a picturesque ghost town of
old houses and churches - all empty Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue
Lagoon, Olu Deniz, where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming
and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the
world to do absolutely nothing except soak up the sun amid stunning natural
surroundings. At Mt. Baba (1,969 m), you can paraglide into the Blue Lagoon.
For those seeking accommodation facilities, Belcekiz beach is recommended.
Intoxicating scenery surRounds Kidirak's beach and shady park. On Gemiler
Island (St. Nicholas's Island), Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines. 
South
of Kidirak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat. Beyond the idyllic
beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley filled with hundreds of varieties
of butterflies await the explorer. High in the mountains above Fethiye
a rushing torrent cuts a narrow gorge through the Mountains, creating Saklikent
(Hidden City). A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite
picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. 36
km south of Fethiye, Yakakoy (Tlos) is the oldest city in the Lycian region.
The home of the Lycian Hero Bellerophon, visitors can see the remains of
a castle, agora, necropolis, theatre, Roman baths and a good view of Esen
Valley. 2 km east of the villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picnic. Pinara,
49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city; it is ideal for
hiking and visitors can see the remains of a theatre, agora, rock tomb,
baths and ancient brothels. About 65 km from Fethiye, to the southeast,
near Kinik, are the ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a
splendid natural setting. Letoon, nearby, was formerly an important religious
cult center where three temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis and Apollo stood
in ancient times.
