FETHIYE & GÖCEK

Fethiye’s natural harbor is the region’s most breathtaking, tucked into the southern end of a broad bay scattered with lovely islands.  Site of the ancient Greek city of Telmessos, today’s Fethiye is a hub for gulet (traditional Turkish yacht) travel, sun, and fascinating history.

Fethiye’s most recognizable sight is the huge Tomb of Amyntas, a temple façade carved into the sheer rock face (south of the modern city center) in 350 BCE and a wonderful spot to take in the setting sun.  Behind the harbor in the center of town are the partially excavated remains of a Roman theater with six thousand seats, dating from the second century BCE.  In town are numerous Lycian stone sarcophagi dating from roughly 450 BCE, stripped bare by thieves centuries ago.  On the hillside above to the south of town and along the road to Kayaköy stands the ruined tower of a Crusader-era fortress, built by the Knights of Saint John at the start of the fifteenth century on ancient foundations.  The excellent Fethiye Museum houses Lycian artifacts from Telmessos (as well as the ancient settlements of Tlos and Kaunos), including pottery, jewelry, small statues, and votive stones.  Its most prized possession is the so-called Trilingual Stele from Letoön, dating from 358 BCE, the key to deciphering the Lycian language with the help of ancient Greek and Aramaic.

Göcek—Kalimche in ancient times—is the western Mediterranean's high-end spot for yachting, with its spectacularly beautiful bay filled with islands and secluded coves.  Legend has it that Icarus landed in the sea near Göcek after his failed attempt at flight.  As in Fethiye, strict building codes have reined in development, and the town retains its old-world charm.  There is a small but clean swimming beach at the western end of the quay, and numerous boat-charter companies scattered throughout the town.  Göcek and Fethiye together offer a true Aegean paradise, with crystal-clear turquoise waters, lushly green forests, and gorgeous beaches.