Butterfly Valley — Faralya, Turkey
The Butterfly Valley near Fethiye is a hidden gem of Turkeys Turquoise
Coast. Deep, steep and accessible only by boat or via the Lycian Way
walking trail, which is advised against. The Valley has only been
visited in the last twenty or so years before that it was reletively
untouched and unknown. Luckily due to the valley being inaccessable it
has kept intact and pure.
The valley is located at the base of Babadag mountain and is protected
by the World Heritage Foundation. It gets it's name from the unique
butterfly species, who have up until recently been the only residents in
the valley for thousands of years. There are over 60 different species
of butterfly in the valley some appearing in the day time and others
only venturing out at night. There are many rare butterflies and for
those who are entusiasts there is a small museum located in the valley
dedicated to giving more in depth information about the species that can
be found there.
The unspoilt valley is lush gren and has much vegetation, some of the
land is being cultivated to produce fresh fruit and vegetable to feed
the hungry travellers that are desperate to get away from the hustle and
bustle of the nearby tourist areas. Many of those chosing to stay on
the island are backpackers, who bring tents or stay in the tree houses
provided.
In addition to the clouds of butterflies fluttering by, there are also
two small waterfalls to discover, providing a refreshingly cool shower
after a hike through the secret valley. There is also a small white
pebbled beach on which to relax and paddle in the crystal clear
Mediterranean waters.
Many of the boat trips that leave daily from Oludeniz beach make a stop
at Butterfly Valley. Visitors are asked to refrain from shouting whilst
exploring as the butterflies are very sensitive. Also to preserve the
valley by taking your litter away after your visit.
Faralya Village — In an area so loved by tourists and the
Turkish people themselves, it is a rare treat to find a village so
completely untouched and unaltered by man. Faralya delights all those
who do venture a visit. A small, quiet village set on the steep hillside
just 8km from Olu Deniz, 1200 feet above sea level, Faralya is an ideal
day out for adventurous travelers, or an authentic Turkish hide out for
those who want to stay longer. Because Faralya has retained its Turkish
village status, there is relatively little to do in the village it self
(just a few small hotels and cafes), but it is an ideal starting point
for many nature based activities, including a starting point for the
famous Lycian Trail.
Faralya can be easily reached by dolmus (public minibus) from Olu Deniz,
or by taxi. Those who like a bit more of a challenge can reach Faralya
by way of an uphill hike from Butterfly valley, which can itself only be
reached by boat (or down hill from Faralya!). Be warned, this is by no
means easy ground, and it is not recommended for the faint hearted. The
breathtaking views and warm hospitality of the people of Faralya
however, can be appreciated by everyone.
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