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A Lycian Dream from Fethiye to Kaю
A Dolphin's Playground
The secrets of the ancient gods of mythology still lie
hidden in the secluded coves and bays around the Gulf of
Fethiye. This is truly paradise for those who want to sail
through history. The resort town of Fethiye has an important
marina and overlooks a beautiful bay strewn with islands.
Above the town, called Telmessos in antiquity, numerous
Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facades of ancient buildings,
were cut into the cliff face. Explore the Belcegiz Bay and
the beautiful Blue Lagoon (Olu Deniz), where the calm, crystal-clear
water is ideal for swimming and other water-sports. On Gemiler
Island, Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines.
Go ashore at Kinik (65 km from Fethiye) where the ruins
of Xanthos, the ancient Lycian capital,lie in a splendid
natural setting. At the holy Lycian center of Letoon, three
temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar
gods of mythology, await the intrepid tourist. Mythology
records that Apollo was born at Patara, a principal harbor
of ancient Lycia, south of Letoon and Xanthos. The ruins
are of course numerous and fascinating. Its twentystwo kilometres
of pure white sand stretch as far as the eye can see, making
it a natural choice for all types of beach sports.
A short sail to the east brings you to Kalkan, a lovely
small hilltop town that overlooks a tiny bay. Narrow, winding
streets lined with souvenier shops lead down to the charming
marina. Every morning, boats busily take tourists to one
of the nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets, it
is Kalkan style to meet on the roof-terraces for a drink
before dinner, and enjoy the comings and goings of the yachts,
the business of the marina and the panoramic view.
Activities
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