Ölüdeniz

Ölüdeniz, which translates to 'Dead Sea' due to its calm waters, is home to the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a protected national park. The long stretch of Belcekiz Beach and the turquoise lagoon are among the most photographed spots in Turkey. A major highlight is tandem paragliding from the 1,969-meter Babadağ Mountain, which provides an unparalleled aerial view of the lagoon and is considered one of the best flight paths in the world. The natural setting is dramatic, with steep mountains cloaked in pines meeting the deep blue Mediterranean. As a protected area, Ölüdeniz has avoided the massive over-development of other resorts, maintaining a relaxed holiday feel. Gastronomy here ranges from casual beach bars to fine dining, offering fresh local produce and international favorites. The area is also a major gateway for the Lycian Way hiking trail. Ölüdeniz is easily reached by a 15-minute dolmuş ride from nearby Fethiye, while Dalaman Airport is approximately 60 km away. The best time to visit for swimming and paragliding is from May to October. For hikers, spring and late autumn are well-suited to explore the coastal trails when the weather is cooler and the scenery is at its most spirited.

Nearby cities

Denizli

Denizli is a center of the textile industry and is located near the famous thermal springs of Pamukkale.

Fethiye

A charming port city featuring impressive Lycian rock tombs and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Marmaris

A sailing paradise surrounded by pine-covered mountains and deep blue bays.

Datça

A pristine peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, famous for its pure air and secluded bays.

Göcek

An exclusive yachting hub in a protected bay, famous for its twelve islands and turquoise waters.

Köyceğiz

Köyceğiz is a peaceful lakeside town surrounded by citrus groves, offering access to thermal mud baths and ancient ruins.

Akyaka

A charming 'Cittaslow' village on the Gulf of Gökova, known for kitesurfing and traditional wooden architecture.

Kayaköy

The famous ghost village of Turkey, an abandoned Greek settlement near Fethiye and the beautiful Gemiler Bay.

Kargı

Kargı is a charming holiday destination in the Fethiye region, characterized by pine forests and quiet bays.

Yanıklar

A tranquil village near Fethiye on the Turkish Riviera, famous for its sweetgum forests and pristine bays.

Saklıkent Gorge

Saklıkent Gorge is a dramatic 18km-long canyon offering ice-cold waters, towering cliffs, and thrilling river walking adventures.

Kapukargın

Kapukargın is a scenic Mediterranean area in Dalaman, renowned for its coastal beauty, natural sulfur springs, and proximity to hidden co…

Patara

Ancient capital of the Lycian League, home to an 18km long pristine sandy beach.

Kalkan

A picturesque harbor town set on steep hillsides, featuring whitewashed houses and world-class dining with stunning Mediterranean views.

Sarıgerme

Sarıgerme is a tranquil Turkish coastal village renowned for its spectacular long sandy beach, clear Aegean waters, and peaceful vacation…

History & landmarks

Pamukkale

An impressive natural wonder in western Turkey, known for its bright white travertine terraces and hot thermal springs.

Nature

Lycian Coast

A wildly romantic part of the Mediterranean coast, characterized by rocky peninsulas, deep gorges, and ancient ruins.

More places

Hierapolis

Hierapolis was an ancient Greek city located near the thermal springs of Pamukkale.

Butterfly Valley

A hard-to-reach, picturesque gorge on the Mediterranean coast known for its diversity of butterfly species.

İztuzu Beach

A pristine strip of sandy beach forming a natural barrier between the fresh water delta of the Dalyan river and the Mediterranean.

Tabuk Castle

An ancient 16th-century castle, now functioning as an archaeological museum.

Jordan India Fertilizer Company (JIFCO)

A joint venture that produces phosphoric acid from local phosphate ores for export to India.