Olu Deniz is a small village resort found on the southwestern coast of Turkey, which also goes by the name of 'Dead Sea' and 'Blue Lagoon'. Because of its stunning turquoise waters and golden sand it has become one of the most photographed and popular beaches in the world.
There's plenty going on all over Olu Deniz whether you're into extreme sports, sightseeing or just relaxing on the beach. Hiking and horse riding are both great ways to take in the stunning landscape. Whilst if you fancy something to get your heart pumping head to the top of Babadag Mountain and try some paragliding. However, if you just want a relaxing holiday why not have a spa treatment in a Turkish bath or cover yourself in some rejuvenating mud at the Dalyan Mud Baths.
Walking & Hiking
With its fine sandy beaches, mountainous terrain, flourishing forests and old mule tracks, the South West Coast of Olu Deniz makes an ideal place for walking.
A popular walk with tourists is to trek from Kayakoy to Olu Deniz. The route is marked out by painted arrows and rock cairns left behind by locals and tourists to help you follow the correct path. The reason this is such a popular walk is because it takes you through some amazing archaeological wanders including beautiful views over the ancient ruins of Kayakoy and the Coldwater Springs. If you decide to go on this walk it's wise to bring some sturdy walking shoes and at least a litre of water, especially in the summer months as it can get very hot!
On the other hand if you would rather have a guide to show you the way Guided Walking at Olu Deniz provides a good selection of varied and enjoyable walks through the dramatic coastline and lagoons of Olu Deniz. Some of the highlights on different tours include visiting the Lycian tombs, the Corinthian temples of the ancient ruined cities, and trekking through the Lycian way, one of the world's top ten walks.
Cycling, mountain biking, quad biking and motor biking
One of the best ways to discover Olu Deniz and the countryside of Turkey is to hire out a bike.
There are a number of bike rental shops in the surrounding area that hire out bikes for the day. If you would prefer a more gentle route head up along one of the coastal paths, but if you want something a bit more challenging carry on and the path will lead you up into Babadag Mountain. It's also worth cycling through the villages of Hisaronu and Ovacik, which are both particularly scenic routes. However, it's best to hire out a mountain bike, as a normal bicycle would not be able to handle the rough, mountainous terrain.
On the other hand if you fancy yourself as a bit of an adrenaline junkie why not go on a quad bike safari? Focus Tours provides Quad bike tours through the ghost town of Olu Deniz and Gemile Beach. Whilst if you're a fan of motor biking back home and have always fancied a go on a Harley-Davidson try Route 69, which organizes custom tours from Fethiye. There are a range of tours on offer including travelling to Antalya, Bodrum and Kas.
Horse riding
Horse riding in Olu Deniz is a great way to take in the breathtaking scenery and reach hidden places found off the beaten track.
There are many riding centers found around Olu Deniz and Fethiye which are English owned and cater for all ages and riding abilities. One option to try is Focus Tours, which offers guided tours through the forest in Kaya Village and through the mountainous range to get an amazing bird's eye view of the Blue Lagoon below. Or another option to think of is OluDeniz Guide Tours, which books horse riding tours through the beautiful countryside of the surrounding area for all riding abilities.
Boat Trips
There's a mixture of boat tour operators found in Olu Deniz and Fethiye offering island excursions to Rhodes and remote beach trips around the area.
If you fancy a change of scenery why not go on a day trip from Fethiye to Rhodes in Greece. During the height of the tourist season there are a variety of catamarans that leave from Fethiye Harbour on certain days of the week. On average the journey takes up to an hour and half, so you have plenty of time to spend the day in Rhodes.
Another option to think of is Cherry Tree Boat Tours, which sets sail from Olu Deniz Harbour. If you want to top up your tan then head to the upper deck, or if you fancy some shade head down to the lower deck. The boat stops off at several locations, where you can jump off and have a swim or have a walk around the local area. Or you would always go with Guide Tours Olu Deniz Boat Trip, which takes you past St Nicolas, Camel Bay and Butterfly Valley. It's also worth mentioning they serve a very good lunch with a choice of fresh grilled fish or chicken.
Water Sports
Olu Deniz is the perfect place for a whole host of water sport activities. Take your pick from kite surfing to banana boats.
Seven Capes Sea Kayaking is based in the Kayakoy valley and provides kayaking tours along the Western Lycian coastline. You can either choose to sign up for a day or night paddle where you will discover hidden sandy beaches and navigate your way round St Nicholas Island. Or you could go for a paddle from Olu Deniz to the blue lagoon, where you will come across the Butterfly Valley and a refreshing waterfall.
Adrenaline junkies will love White Water Rafting on the Dalaman River, which is rated as one of the top ten routes in the world. Luckily you don't need any experience at all to take part in this activity, as the boat will be under the full control of a professional guide. If you're interesting in having a go, the Alpine Rafting Company provides professional guided tours along the river. However, for a less strenuous water sports activity why not try canoeing on the Xanthos River, also provided by the same company. You will get the chance to stop off for a cooling dip in the sea at the remote end of Letoon on Patara Beach. A long the way you will also get to try fresh fruit from the local area.
On the other hand you could simply just head to the beach for a spot of water sport activities. On the beach in Olu Deniz there are many different water sports available including parasailing, jet skis, banana boats and rings available to hire. Or you could go to Fethiye Surf Centre, which offers reasonably priced windsurfing, paddle boarding and kite boarding lessons.
Paragliding
Paragliding is one of the most popular activities to do in Olu Deniz and is reputedly one of the best paragliding sites in Europe, if not the world.
Sky Sports Paragliding offers tandem flights and paragliding training from the top of Babadag, otherwise known as (Father Mountain). The height of this jump is over 2000 meters and takes a total of 45 minutes to reach the ground, where you will land safely and softly on the beach of Olu Deniz. This rare opportunity glides you over memorable sites such as Olu Deniz lagoon and a unique look over the beach.
Reaction Paragliding also sets off from the Babadag Range of South-West Turkey. First of all you will be picked up by a tour guide, who will then take you to the top of the mountain in a mini bus. Then when you are ready you will set off with a trained professional who will fly you through the dynamic landscape of Olu Deniz, and on a clear day you can see all the way to the Greek island of Rhodes.
Turkish Baths
Turkey is well known for its stress relieving treatments including the most common 'Hammas'. There are a variety of mud baths and spas found in Olu Deniz to take your pick from.
The Dalyan Mud Baths in Marmaris are a must whilst visiting Olu Deniz, but be warned it can get very busy during the peak times. The best times to visit are in fact early in the morning or in the evening, as many boat tours dock here during midday dropping off hundreds of tourists. The mud baths cleanse your skin to release any impurities and leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
The Sanctuary Day Spa found under the Tonoz Beach Hotel offers a range of treatments and hair appointments to choose from. Choose from a long list of treatments including a classic Turkish Bath (Hammam), a hot stone massage, a deep tissue massage or a seaweed body wrap.
Natural attractions
If you would rather discover Olu Deniz's natural offerings, there are so many places to see from the Butterfly Valley to the Turtle Beach.
The Butterfly Valley near Fethiye is one of Turkey's hidden gems. It is found at the base of Babadag Mountain and can be accessed via the Lycian Way walking trail or by boat. Even though this beautiful location became a popular tourist spot over 20 years ago it is still relatively unspoiled and is thriving with wildlife. At one end there is a small sheltered pebble beach where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters. Or there's also the option of taking a refreshing free shower under one of the two small waterfalls.
Dalyan also known as 'Turtle Beach' is one of the most beautiful areas in Olu Deniz. If you're wandering why it is called Olu Deniz, then wander no longer as this protected area is home to three varieties of turtle, including the Loggerhead and over 100 species of bird. Whilst if you don't want to venture out very far go to the Blue Lagoon, otherwise known as "Olu Deniz Beach." This picturesque beach is famous as a symbol of Olu Deniz and the country of Turkey. Even though it can get crowded during the summer months it's still named as one of the best beaches in Turkey and even the whole world!
However, if you fancy a trip out for the day why not go to Pamukkale "Cotton Castle", which is a natural site made up of hot springs and travertines. Don't forget to bring your swimming costume as the minerals in the water are extremely beneficial for the skin, and a camera will come in handy, as the landscape is simply one of a kind!
Historical sites
If you're into visiting archaeological sites of wonder and discovering UNESCO World Heritage Sites then Olu Deniz is definitely for you!
Kaya Village (Ghost Town) is an ancient fortress and village found just a few kilometers away from Fethiye. The reason why it is now known as a ghost town is because the village was deserted in 1923 when it was finally agreed the Greek people in Turkey would return back to Greece. The Levissi village is a must to walk around, as well as the fortress and the Tomb of Amyntas which is carved into the rock face. You don't have to worry about the heat as a welcoming breeze blows down from the mountains.
The ancient Lycian capital city of Xanthos was discovered in the 19th century and has existed since the days of the Iron Age. Now it is a popular tourist site and has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its significance. There's plenty to do and see here from taking pictures by one of the many pillar tombs or sitting in the historic amphitheatre.