Why I Keep Returning to the Fethiye Region

Why I Keep Returning to the Fethiye Region

I’m not a sun worshipper. I don’t spend hours stretched out on a lounger. But my favourite little hotel in the Fethiye region has a way of slowing me down more than anywhere else. With its relaxed atmosphere, exclusive chill out pool, and amazing food, it gives me space to unwind in a way I rarely do.

And yet, whenever I fancy a change of scenery, it’s incredibly easy to get out and about. Travel is cheap and straightforward, and as a neurodiverse family, that flexibility is invaluable, it means we can explore on our own time, without being tied to tour schedules. While there are plenty of excursion companies (and one specific one that I’d happily recommend), having the option to move independently makes this destination even more appealing for us.

Hisarönü: A Surprising Base

On paper, Hisarönü doesn’t sound like “my kind of place.” It’s a mainly British tourist resort, with a main street lined with bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops. We don’t drink, we’re not partygoers, and so the nightlife isn’t something that appeals to us.

But here’s the thing: Hisarönü works. A wander down the main street is a nice way to fill an evening, and yes, the shopping is exactly what you’d expect if you know Turkey, what makes Hisarönü special for us is not the nightlife or the shops, it’s the fact that it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the incredible surrounding areas.

Hisarönü itself also has its hidden gems. Among the bustle of bars and shops are some genuinely great eateries, dessert spots, and coffee shops. The people here are lovely too, I always feel safe, and I so often hear stories of locals helping visitors when they didn’t need to, they always go above and beyond. Top Tip: if heat is not your friend, Hisaronu is always a few degrees lower than the resorts along the coast, being surrounded by the forrest helps to keep it cooler and more enjoyable.

The Shadow of Babadağ

The resort sits on the slopes of the majestic Babadağ mountain, and from certain viewpoints the scenery is so dramatic it reminds me of the Alps. Look closely and you’ll notice little wavy specks drifting down from the peak, they’re not birds, but paragliders, as Babadağ is world-famous for the sport.

When we first visited, the only way up the mountain was by car or bus, a hair-raising experience, but very unforgettable. With the right driver/guide, you’d learn so much on the way: how the terrain changes as you climb, about the local flora and fauna, the bee-keepers working along the hillsides, and of course the incredible honey they produce. At the top, a small traditional taverna welcomed you with blankets against the cool air, and served simple food as you watched one of the best sunsets in the world. It was that special, that we’ve even seen a marriage proposal whilst there.

Now, a modern cable car whisks visitors to the summit from just outside Hisarönü. It’s far more convenient, but also far more commercialised. The taverna has been replaced by a large restaurant that’s hugely popular (book in advance if you want a table). The views are still jaw-dropping, but gone is the guide explaining the mountain’s secrets, it feels less of a hidden gem than it once was.

Kayaköy – The Ghost Village 👻

Just 5 minutes away by taxi or dolmuş is Kayaköy, a traditional Turkish village with a very different feel. The village was once home to a thriving Greek community, but after the 1923 population exchange between Greece and Turkey, it was abandoned. Today, the stone houses and cobbled streets stand silent, giving it its “ghost village” nickname, a hauntingly beautiful place to wander.

It has a handful of places catering to tourists, but most of its restaurants serve delicious local cuisine. One of my favourites is Izela Restaurant, which is stunning both in food and location. Nestled in beautiful grounds that feel straight out of a film set, it’s the perfect spot for a Turkish breakfast. Three generations of my family, along with friends, have visited, and every one of us has had the same wonderful experience.

The restaurant sits in the shadow of Kayaköy’s abandoned village, now a national park that you can explore for a small fee. Hiking to the top is a highlight: the views stretch across the countryside towards the coast and Ölüdeniz.

Fethiye Town

A 20-minute taxi or 30–40 minute dolmuş ride takes you to Fethiye town, the main working hub of the region. It has all the facilities you’d expect in a modern town, but alongside that you’ll find a charming marina lined with restaurants, a lively weekly market, and plenty of family-friendly touches like parks and bike hire along the seafront.

The old town is full of character, with narrow lanes, traditional shops, and plenty of atmosphere. A visit to the fish market is a must, you can buy fresh seafood and have one of the surrounding restaurants cook it for you. Overlooking it all are the Lycian rock tombs, including the impressive Tomb of Amyntas.

From Fethiye’s harbour you can also take the water taxi to Çalış, a short 20-minute ride across the bay. Approaching Çalış, the reeds rising from the water make you feel like you could be in Vietnam or Thailand. On the return journey, after sunset, the Fethiye coastline is illuminated beautifully, and you even spot the Lycian tombs perched above the town. It’s a magical way to end an eveningi

Ölüdeniz and the Blue Lagoon 💙

Just down the hill from Hisarönü lies Ölüdeniz, a bustling resort famous for its sweeping beach, iconic Blue Lagoon and the landing paragliders. The main strip is busy with bars, restaurants, and shops, but the appeal here is the sea.

I’ve swum in the lagoon in late October, with the water still warm and the sun shining at 27°C. You can choose between the public beach or one of the private beach clubs dotted along the lagoon. It’s not white-sand Maldives perfection, but it has a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere. Many of the beach bars and restaurants now stay open into the night, with beanbags, live music, and a chilled vibe that’s worlds apart from the noisy clubs of the main street.

From Ölüdeniz you can also join boat trips, although most require you to wade into the water to board. For easier access, Fethiye Marina is the better option.

Exploring Further

The region is full of day trip opportunities:

• Dalyan – riverboat rides past the Lycian tombs, famous mud baths, and unspoilt natural scenery.
• Saklıkent Gorge – a dramatic canyon with hiking, water fun, and optional adrenaline activities.
• Gizlikent Waterfall – beautiful waterfalls and trails, perfect for a refreshing escape.

You can reach these by public transport, join an organised tour, or hire a driver and guide to explore at your own pace, which is exactly what we usually do.

A Destination for Everyone

If you love walking or running, the Fethiye region is paradise, with countless trails and routes to explore. My husband has already tackled a few, and is determined to hike Babadağ mountain one day, personally, I’ll stick with the cable car and meet him at the top for cake!

We’ve visited this area as a couple, with our son as a teenager, and with our daughter, who was six months old on her first visit and is now six. We’ve also shared it with my mum and friends. Each visit has worked for us in a different way, and every time, we’ve loved it.

I’m not usually one to return to the same destination, but for a short week away without the long flight, Fethiye has become our go-to.

Want to Discover Fethiye for Yourself?

If you’d like to experience the Fethiye region and stay in one of my favourite little hotels, or explore any of the hidden gems I’ve shared, I’d love to help you plan your trip. From tailored accommodation recommendations to personalised advice on excursions and transport, I can make sure your holiday is as relaxing, adventurous, or family-friendly as you want it to be.

📞 Call or WhatsApp me: 0161 223 5176
📧 Email: Michaela.peters@travelcounsellors.com