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KAYAKOY
Only 8km from Fethiye, set in the pine clad forests and hills of the ancient historical coastal region of South West Turkey, is the UNESCO World Friendship and Peace Village of Kayakoy. A visit to this beautiful site is one of the highlights of a stay in Fethiye and its surrounding areas. Kayakoy, literally meaning ‘stone village’, is a beautiful living museum and a spectacular step back into the ancient times of a breathtaking hillside village and only a stone’s throw from the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Approximately 500 buildings remain as ruins in Kayakoy and are under the protection of the Turkish government, including two Greek Orthodox churches, a 17th century fountain in the town square and many other homes and schools. The deserted Anatolian village is set in a wild grass and flower filled hillside overlooking the Mediterranean valley and mountains beyond.
Kayakoy is occupied by a small number of residents who choose to live in the fresh mountainous atmosphere, experiencing a purer life at a slower pace. There are small Turkish tea and coffee houses, quaint restaurants with breakfast and lunch served on traditional cushioned wooden seating platforms all welcoming families with children.
Famous to the area are the garden barbeque restaurants serving fresh meze starters and private BBQ’s allocated to each table. The relaxed atmosphere is provided with shading from the grape vines overhead and the views of the surrounding village and stunning distant snow capped mountains. Delicious fresh food and specially allocated children’s play areas ensure guests feel welcomed and peaceful.
As part of the visit to Kayakoy, some of the day can be spent in the nearby beach cove of Gemiler only 7km drive from the village centre. This Mediterranean Sea front cove boasts a beautiful family friendly beach to relax, swim and snorkel with basic facilities to eat and drink provided. The views from the beach are a picture postcard setting of crystal clear sea, pine forest mountains and blue skies, providing a feast for the eyes.
Kayakoy can be visited easily, by using the regions efficient minibus service, from Fethiye, Ovacik and Hisaronu. Many choose to walk from Hisaronu through the fragrant pine forest or join a horse-back trek through the mountains to Kayakoy. Whichever way you choose to get there, it is well worth the short pleasant journey to experience this friendly, welcoming village of outstanding natural beauty.
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