Fethiye is a beautiful and interesting place to wander around, it is steeped in rich history that dates back to the 5th Century BC. There is an eclectic mix of incredible ancient ruins and modern statues and monuments honouring those that made an important contribution to the evolution of...
Read moreFethiye is a beautiful and interesting place to wander around, it is steeped in rich history that dates back to the 5th Century BC. There is an eclectic mix of incredible ancient ruins and modern statues and monuments honouring those that made an important contribution to the evolution of Turkey, making it what it is today.
On your travels around Fethiye have you ever noticed just how many statues there are? They are fabulous to look at, with detail and excellent craftmanship, but more importantly, do you know who they are and why they are so important that a statue was dedicated to them?
As you wonder through the big park at the bottom of Fethiye, the centre piece statue (although now lacking his wings, which were the victim of the storms earlier in 2021) is a momument to Fethi Bey (also the namesake of the beautiful park). Fethi Bey was a fighter pilot in the early 1900’s, who tragically died during the First World War in a plane crash. He was the first Turkish aviation martyr and in honour of his bravery, Atatürk renamed the then named Megri to Fethiye. Very appropriately in 2005 the statue was then erected to honour his life and sacrifice.
When in the main square in Fethiye town, by the harbour, on the kordon, there are also several other statues/memorials
These include the Fethiye Martyrs Memorial, this piece is fabulous, it is well worth a visit and to take time to look and really appreciate the detail.
The memorial honours the martyrs of the Turkish War of Independence, The Battles of Gallipoli, The Cyprus Peace Operation and the Korean War.
Each year, Fethiye holds a ceremony to commemorate the many lives that are honoured by this memorial
In the centre of the square taking pride of place, is a statue of Atatürk holding a child’s hand, this statue honours Turkeys youth. What I personally like about this statue is its accessibility. When wandering around you will see families taking photos by it, but also climbing it via the steps to the side. It is real interactive piece. The statue states “Ne mutlu Türküm diyene.” (How happy is the one who can call himself a Turk.)
Further round on the kordon in the park, towards the direction of Umbrella Street/Paspatur is the monument to Atatürk seated high above everyone on his rearing horse.
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was a military officer and established the Republic of Turkey. He served as the country’s first official president. Atatürk came to prominence for his role in securing the Ottoman Turkish victory at the Battle of Gallipoli (1915) during World War I. Under his leadership, the Republic of Turkey was declared in 1923, and he was honoured with the name Atatürk (“Father of the Turks”) by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 1934.
However, the statue(s) that we at Turkish Coast Homes, perhaps refer to the most is the ‘heads statue’. it’s located across the road from our office, so given regularly as a reference point when giving directions to our clients visiting us for the first time. The interesting thing about this statue though is, not many people, including locals can tell you who all the heads are of and why there are in fact represented in statue form.
So who are the ‘Fethiye Heads’?
Well each head is a representation of a person who has had a noted role in Turkish/Ottoman history.
As you would expect Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, sits proudly aloft in the centre. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk (1881 – 1938) was a Turkish field marshal, revolutionary statesman, author, and the founding father of the Republic of Turkey, serving as its first president from 1923 until his death in 1938. He undertook sweeping progressive reforms, which modernized Turkey into a secular, industrializing nation. Due to his military and political accomplishments, Atatürk is regarded as one of the most important political leaders of the 20th century.
So are you sitting comfortably? In brief, (thanks to the internet and Wikipedia) here is your little history lesson and explanation of who the others are, (in no particular order)
Number 1 – Yunus Emre (1240 – 1320) also known as Derviş Yunus (Yunus the Dervish) was a Turkish poet and Sufi mystic who greatly influenced Turkish culture. His name, Yunus, is the equivaent to the English name Jonah. He wrote in Old Anatolian Turkish, an early stage of Turkish. The UNESCO General Conference unanimously passed a resolution declaring 1991, the 750th anniversary of the poet’s birth, International Yunus Emre Year
Number 2 – Mevlana Celaleddin -I Rumi (1207 – 1273). Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi is an Anatolian holy man who gave hope and inspiration to humanity. Mevlana was born in 1207 in Khorasan, and died in 1273 in Konya. He took his first lessons from his father Bahaeddin Veled, who was known as “sultan of scholar”
Number 3 – Hoca Ahmet Yesevi (1093 – 1166) was a Turkic poet and Sufi, an early mystic who exerted a powerful influence on the development of Sufi orders throughout the Turkic-speaking world. Yasawi is the earliest known Turkic poet who composed poetry in Middle Turkic. He was a pioneer of popular mysticism, founded the first Turkic Sufi order, the Yasawiyya or Yeseviye, which very quickly spread over Turkic-speaking areas.
Number 4 – Alparslan (1033 – 1072) whose real name was Muhammad bin Dawud Chaghri, was the second Sultan of the Seljuk Empire and great-grandson of Seljuk, the eponymous founder of the dynasty. He greatly expanded the Seljuk territory and consolidated his power, defeating rivals to south and northwest and his victory over the Byzantines at the Battle of Manzikert, in 1071, ushered in the settlement of Anatolia. For his military prowess and fighting skills he obtained the name Alp Arslan, which means “Heroic Lion” in Turkish
Number 5 – Caka Bey (? – 1093) was an 11th-century Seljuk Turkish military commander who ruled an independent state based in Smyrna. Originally in Byzantine service, he rebelled and seized Smyrna, much of the Aegean coastlands of Asia Minor and the islands lying off shore in 1088–91. At the peak of his power, he even declared himself Byzantine emperor, and sought to assault Constantinople in conjunction with the Pechenegs.
Turkish Naval Forces officially consider 1081, the capture of Smyrna by Tzachas, as its founding date.
Number 6 – Bilge Kagan (684 – 734) is one of the khans of the Second Göktürk Khanate. He is considered as one of the most important figures in Turkish history.
Number 7 – Atilla (400 – 453) frequently called Attila the Hun, was the ruler of the Huns from 434 until his death in March 453. He was also the leader of a tribal empire consisting of Huns, Ostrogoths, Alans and Bulgars, among others, in Central and Eastern Europe. During his reign, he was one of the most feared enemies of the Western and Eastern Roman Empires.
Number 8 – Metehan (? – M O 174) was the ruler of the Great Hun Empire, which ruled between 209 BC and 174 BC. It is thought that he is the same person as Oguz Kagan in the Oguz Kagan epic.
Number 9 – Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa (1466 – 1546) is a famous sailor. With the campaigns he carried out in the 16th century, he consolidated the Ottoman dominance in the Mediterranean. So much so that this sea was referred to as a Turkish lake by some historians. He also regulated the maritime policy of the Ottoman Empire and the Tersane-i Amire (Golden Horn Shipyards).
The real name of Barbaros Hayreddin Pasha is Hızır Reis. Sultan Yavuz Sultan Selim gave him the name Hayreddin, which means “benevolent of religion”, because of his service to the Ottoman Empire.
Number 10 – Kanuni Sultan Suleyman (1495 -1566). Suleiman I commonly known as Suleiman the Magnificent in the West and Suleiman the Lawgiver (Ottoman Turkish) in his realm, was the tenth and longest-reigning Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1520 until his death in 1566. Under his administration, the Ottoman caliphate ruled over at least 25 million people.
Number 11 – Yavuz Sultan Selim (1470 – 1520 ) Known as Selim I, Selim the Grim or Selim the Resolute was the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1512 to 1520. Despite lasting only eight years, his reign is notable for the enormous expansion of the Empire, particularly his conquest between 1516 and 1517 of the entire Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt, which included all of the Levant, Hejaz, Tihamah, and Egypt itself. On the eve of his death in 1520, the Ottoman Empire spanned about 3,400,000 km (1,300,000 sq mi), having grown by seventy percent during Selim’s reign.
Number 12 – Fatih Sultan Mehmet (1432 – 1481) also known as Mehmed the Conqueror, Fatih or with his Western nickname Grand Turko (Great Turk) was the 7th sultan of the Ottoman Empire. In historical sources, his name is mentioned also as Muhammed. He reigned first for a short period between 1444 and 1446, then for 30 years from 1451 until his death in 1481. He conquered Istanbul at the age of 21,putting an end to the Eastern Roman Empire, the heir to the 1480-year-old Roman Empire, and this event is considered by many historians as the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the New Age.
Number 13 – Osman Bey (1258 – 1326) also known as Osman I or Osman Ghazi was the leader of the Kayi tribe and the founder of the Ottoman dynasty. The dynasty bearing his name later established and ruled the Ottoman Empire (first known as the Ottoman Beylik or Emirate). This state, while initially a small Turkmen principality during Osman’s lifetime, transformed into a world empire in the centuries after his death. It existed until shortly after the end of World War I.
Number 14 – Mehmet Akif Ersoy (20 December 1873 – 27 December 1936) was a Turkish poet, writer, academic, politician, and the author of the Turkish National Anthem. Widely regarded as one of the premiere literary minds of his time, Ersoy is noted for his command of the Turkish language, as well as his patriotism and role in the Turkish War of Independence.
Number 15 – Haci Nektas Veli (1210 – 1271) was a mystic, scholar and Islamic philosopher. He is one of the intellectual and name pioneers of Alevi-Bektashism. Those who follow his path are called Bektashi
These are just a few of our important statues and monuments, however dotted about the park, the kordon and the streets are so many more. So what are you waiting for? Put on those walking shoes and get exploring for yourselves.
As we welcome the cooler months of Autumn and Winter in Turkey, the colours and selection of fresh fruit and vegetables in the local markets change. The cooler weather always makes me want to stay in and cook, healthy, but homely food. One popular and staple fruit making its...
Read moreAs we welcome the cooler months of Autumn and Winter in Turkey, the colours and selection of fresh fruit and vegetables in the local markets change. The cooler weather always makes me want to stay in and cook, healthy, but homely food.
One popular and staple fruit making its appearances at the markets (yes, I said fruit, how many of you knew that?) is Pumpkin or Kabak as it’s known here. Pumpkins, normally associated with Halloween are about more than just spooky artistic carved lantern. In Turkey they provide a staple food that lends itself easily to both savoury and sweet dishes.
If your worried about Pumpkin overload, don’t be, you can easily freeze it, however its best to keep it frozen for just a couple of months and plan the dishes that you intend to make with it afterwards as it won’t look like it did when you froze it, when you defrost it. Soups are ideal. Try a simple pumpkin soup or try combining it with vegetables such as carrots or even add some lentils. To make it a little more interesting try some chillies, herbs or even a few pumpkin seeds There are lots of recipes and ideas available on the internet.
And what better than to accompany a lovely hot bowl of soup, but freshly made bread. With a nutty flavour and orange colour, how many of you have heard of or tried Pumpkin Bread?
And what goes with freshly baked bread, of course a lovely jam, ideal to add to a Turkish Kahvalti (Turkish Breakfast). Again how many of you have every heard or thought of having Pumpkin Jam? If you don’t want to freeze you pumpkin, this is a good way of using it up and preserving it for the coming months. For a bit of ‘zing’ include some orange, lemon and ginger too, again there are lots of recipes available on the internet.
Most of us when we think of pumpkin in a dessert, think of pumpkin pie, especially in November, the month of American Thanksgiving. How many of you though have tried the Turkish pumpkin dessert? (Kabak Tatlisi). A basic dish of candied pumpkin. It’s not a dish that can be knocked up instantly as it’s the sugar sprinkled over that pumpkin, that works its magic over a matter of hours, creating a syrup. When it’s warmed through the pumpkin then softens and when cooled is ready to serve with either kaymak (Turkish clotted cream), sometimes yogurt or for that extra texture and taste try garnishing with chopped walnuts and some tahini (it will help to balance out the sweetness).
I’m sure there are many recipes out there for pumpkin, so what are you waiting for? Get cooking! Or if you are not too handy in the kitchen it’s a good excuse to go out and support your local cafes and restaurant, obviously in the interest of culinary research!
The Turkish Lake District When you think of Turkey, we all think of the beaches, iconic mosques, historical sites and of course food and shopping! But did you know that turkey boast some 51 natural lakes and 14 reservoir and dam lakes. The largest lake being Lake Van in...
Read moreThe Turkish Lake District
When you think of Turkey, we all think of the beaches, iconic mosques, historical sites and of course food and shopping! But did you know that turkey boast some 51 natural lakes and 14 reservoir and dam lakes. The largest lake being Lake Van in the far east of Turkey. However due north of Antalya, close to Isparta, nestled within the forests and hills of inner Anatolia and the folds of the Taurus Mountains is the Turkish Lake District. The Turkish Lake District, also known as the Turkish Lakeland is an area with a series of shallow tectonic lakes. The major lakes are Acıgöl , Akşehir , Beyşehir , Burdur , Eğirdir , and the smaller ones are Akgöl, Lake Çavuşçu, Eber, Işıklı , Karamık, Karataş, Kovada, Salda , Suğla and Yarışlı.
Did you know the Turkish word for lake is Göl?
Lake Salda
Traveling from Fethiye towards the lake district one of the first lakes you come to is Salda Göl. Locally and affectionally known as the ‘Saldives’ because of its white and like shores and clear blue water. It is the soil on the lake which is rich with soda and magnesium mineral that gives it the stunning white colour. Lake Salda is one of the deepest lakes in Turkey and has first- degree protected area status (SİT).
The journey is approx. 180 km there and takes around 2.5 hours. If to far to travel there and back in a day, there a several hotels available, which provide a comfortable night’s stay and base for onward travel to explore the other and larger lakes.
Lake Eğirdir
One of the largest lakes in the lake district (and the 4th largest lake in Turkey), further east from Lake Salda is Lake Eğirdir (pronounced Eh – ee – deer), although it was called Eğridir (pronounced Eh-ree-deer) until the 1980s. Eğridir means ‘crooked’ or ‘bent.’ The locals became tired of the jokes, so they renamed their city, Eğirdir. This means ‘spinning’ and ‘flowers.’ However it seems some old habits can die hard as many Turkish still use Eğirdir’s pre-1980s name. Lake Eğirdir is often a popular rest or overnight stopping point for those travelling on towards Cappadocia.
If you didn’t know you were inland, you would be excused for thinking the lake was a coastline, with its sand beach scattered along its edges.
Lake Eğirdir also has two islands, connected to the mainland by a long causeway into the town of Eğirdir
The town of Eğirdir has a patchworked history, originally founded by the Hittites and was a regular stop on the King’s Way, between Ephesus and Babylon. It was this position on the trade route, that made the city flourish. In 1200 BC Egirdir was taken by the Phrygians, then the Lydians, before being captured by the Persians and conquered by Alexander the Great. In Byzantine times the town was known as Akrotiri, meaning ‘Steep Mountain’. The Ottomans finally took control in the 14th century, but the population of the island of Yesilada remained mainly Greek, until the population Exchange in 1923. Today the sights of Egirdir can easily be visited in just over an hour.
These include the ruins of a castle, which was thought to be built in the 5th century, the crumbling walls of an old han, the remains of the ancient city of Prostanna and the Turkish army’s commando base. There are some other places that are worth a visit including: –
Many people have heard of the Lycian way, a marked long-distance trail (500km/310 mile) in southwestern Turkey around part of the coast of ancient Lycia which stretches from Hisarönü (Ovacık), near Fethiye, to Geyikbayırı in Konyaaltı about 20 km (12 mi) from Antalya. But how many have heard of the Saint Paul Trail?
The Saint Paul Trail is the second long distance trail exploring more remote mountains and lakes of southern and central Turkey.
Saint Paul Trail offers trekking enthusiasts’ insight into the countryside that Paul travelled on his first journey through Anatolia.
The route starts at either Aspendos or Perge, both close to Antalya and finishes at Yalvac, near Lake Egirdir. The trail is a 500 km 27-day waymarked footpath from Perge (10 km east of Antalya province) to Yalvac (northeast of Lake Egirdir)
Saint Paul Trail is over Roman roads, footpaths and forest tracks; the western branch of the route is mainly suitable in places for mountain bikes. It starts at sea level and climbs up to 2200 m, with two optional peaks at around 2800 m. Some parts of the route run through ancient and natural cedar forest, unique around the Mediterranean. The east branch of the trail runs through the beautiful Koprulu Canyon National Park. The west branch, which is more historically accurate, follows aqueducts and original roads as far as possible.
Lake Tuz
Not strictly in the Lake District, but further North on your way to Ankara lies Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake). It’s worth a visit as it is the second largest lake in Turkey with its 1,665 km2 (643 sq. mi) surface area and one of the largest hypersaline lakes in the world.
During the summer the lake dries up exposing an average of 30 cm thick salt layer in August. This mechanism is used as a basis for the process of the salt mines in the lake. The three mines operating in the lake produce 63% of the salt consumed in Turkey. The salt mining generates industrial activity in the region, mainly related to salt processing and refining.
In 2001, Lake Tuz was declared a specially protected area, including all of the lake surface and surrounding waterbeds and some of the important neighbouring steppe areas. The Salt Lake wetland is now one of the worlds most important flamingo nesting grounds, due to the algae’s presence in the lake.
The algae that the flamingos feed on also gives the lake it’s spectacular pink colour in May, June and July.
These algae produce beta-carotene red in the summer months when the weather is hotter and the salt level of the lake water rises to protect them from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. In turn this kills off a large portion of the plankton that eat the colour-changing algae in the lake. As the algae’s population grows it causes the water to change to its bright red or pink colour.
We’ve just visited 3 of the lakes Turkey has to offer. There are so many beautiful places to visit and explore, so what are you waiting for?
When people consider relocating to the Fethiye or one of the surrounding areas, one of the many considerations is how to get from A to B. Whilst Fethiye and Calis, including Babatasi, Tuzla, Akarca, Foca areas etc are all pretty flat, some of the other areas whilst having fabulous...
Read moreWhen people consider relocating to the Fethiye or one of the surrounding areas, one of the many considerations is how to get from A to B. Whilst Fethiye and Calis, including Babatasi, Tuzla, Akarca, Foca areas etc are all pretty flat, some of the other areas whilst having fabulous views are on the side of, or the other side of a hill/mountain. In the Fethiye and Calis area, walking and cycling are very popular, due to the beautiful kordon and cycle paths available.
The areas are also served by an excellent dolmus (mini bus) service. To use these services you have to have a HES code (Turkeys version of track and trace) which you link to your bank card for payment, or buy a kent card (similar to an oyster card) and link it to that. You can download the Mugla Kart app, which provides information on routes and online purchases of a card, via a Turkish mobile telephone number.
To travel further a field there is the otogar (bus station) in Fethiye where you can access the larger style coaches, these go to many places, including the airports, Antalya, Izmir, Istanbul infact pretty much anywhere.
Bringing in your own vehicle to Turkey or buying in Turkey
Many people relocating consider the option of purchasing a car in Turkey and some consider bringing their own vehicles over, especially if they have relocation items the want bringing to their new homes. The car journey can be a fabulous adventure, driving through Europe, before starting your new lives.
Having a car, also allows you to get out and explore the history rich, beautiful country. It opens up a whole world of possibilities.
However there are certain considerations, that are important to know before making your decision on whether to bring in your own vehicle or buy a car when in Turkey.
Driving Licences
If you are driving on your driving licence from your home country, there are certain rules you need to be aware of: –
If you are a holiday maker or entering Turkey with an evisa there is no need to have a foreign licence translated or notarised. However if you hold a Residence Permit you can legally drive with your foreign licence but it must be translated and notarised.
** After driving in Turkey for 6 months (without leaving the country), your foreign licence will no longer be valid. You will need to leave the country and re-enter to get a new passport stamp, transfer you existing licence to a Turkish driving licence or take a Turkish driving test.
The penalty if you are caught using a foreign driving licence after the 6 months allowance (From last passport entry stamp) is 500tl, but also remember your insurance will also be invalid. For anyone driving with an expired driving licence (UK licences need renewing every 10 years) if caught the licence will be confiscated and sent back to the issuing body.
If you are a Turkish citizen or a foreigner holding Turkish citizenship, you are able to drive for up to 2 years with your foreign licence, before having to use the passport stamp rule, taking your Turkish driving test, or applying for a driving licence conversion.
Bringing in your own car to Turkey
So you’ve decided to bring your car into Turkey with you? Then assuming you have not got residency the border police will issue you with 90 days permit. When you have applied for your short-term residency permit (STRP) you then must go to your local customs office (Gumruk) to get them extended inline with the 1 or 2 years of your STRP.
To get the extension you will need
There is no cost to do this, however most of the officers speak Turkish so it is advisable to have a Turkish speaker/translator with you
When you initially arrive at the border in Turkey you will need to get a visa/permit for your vehicle. To get this you will need
As of October 2015 the law is you can keep your car in Turkey for up to 2 years on a foreign plate. After the 2 years you will need to leave the country with the car for a minimum 185 days, should you want to return with the car or another car. If you do not want to return with a car, then you can leave the country with the car and return as soon as you want to.
Should you not leave the country with your vehicle after 2 years then your car can be confiscated and you could be heavily fined.
There is an exemption to the 185-day rule if the importer is retired with pension (state pension, not early private pension) and it is the first time they have imported a vehicle into Turkey, the 185-day rule is waived)
Any vehicle that is imported temporarily for private use can be driven by the vehicle’s owner. There spouse or children who are residents abroad (e.g. not a resident permit holder or citizen of Turkey) are also allowed to driver it, as long as the owner is present in the vehicle during use.
Should the owner of the car want to leave Turkey without the car then the customs must be notified of this in advance of any intention to travel. If the owner if out of Turkey, this does not extend the time the car can stay in Turkey. Whilst the owner is out of Turkey no one else is allowed to drive the vehicle.
You also have the choice of keeping your car in the country, but to do this you would have to pay tax on it, which is very expensive – you would need to talk to the customs office if you were considering this option.
As you can see it can be quite complicated to bring your car here, so the other option to consider is buying a vehicle here. To buy you will need to be a residency permit holder or citizen.
Buying a car in Turkey
Cars in Turkey are expensive; however they hold their value. They will need in most cases a TUV (equivalent of an MOT) every 2 years (with van style vehicles e.g. FIAT Doblo requiring them annually). Vehicles are also subject to car tax; this can be paid annually or in January and July each year.
The buying process is very simple. You find the vehicle. You can do a damage enquiry in the vehicle to see it’s repair history and you may wish to take it for an inspection at an impartial garage. This is the choice of the buyer.
(To check the history via a Turkish mobile, you put the registration plate number and send it to 5663) You can check via Web ile Sorgulama – Sigorta Bilgi ve Gözetim Merkezi (sbm.org.tr) )but you will need to understand Turkish or use google translate.
If you are buying a new car, then the dealer will help coordinate this process, it will be pain free. There are many dealerships in and around the Fethiye area.
If you are buying a second-hand car, you will need to go to the notary office with the seller of the vehicle. You will also need to take an official translator with you. It is customary for the buyer to pay all the fees; however this can be negotiable.
The noters office will enter names and ID numbers of the buyer and seller, along with the vehicle registration details and agreed sale price onto the online system. The system then produces a sales agreement which is signed by both the buyer and the seller. A document will then be issued to enable the new owner to have produced and buy new number plates for the vehicle (if buying from a non-Turkish Citizen then new plates are not needed. If buying form a Turkish Citizen new number plates will be needed. All non-Turkish citizens drive M plated vehicles) ** PLEASE note it is illegal for a Turkish Citizen to drive an M plated car.
A new ‘log book’ will also be printed and issued. The noters office will check there are no debts against the vehicle, including unpaid fines or tax and that the vehicle has a valid TUV certificate. The buyer must have insurance for the vehicle before driving it.
For the purchase process the buyer will need a translated and notarised copy of their passport (and the original and valid residency permit (or work permit).
Turkish Number Plates
Did you know that the first 2 numbers on a Turkish number plate indicate where the car is from (area registered to)? 48 is the code for Mugla Province, which you will see the majority of car in Fethiye and surrounding area having. Have a look at the map below to see the other regions, in total there are 81.
NB : All information contained in this article is correct as of 1/11/2021
Last week saw the return of the Ölüdeniz International Air Games (20th – 24th October). This spectacular event is held every October, but sadly due to Covid 19 restrictions, last year it had to be cancelled. The Fethiye region is famous for it’s paragliding from Babadağ (father mountain), with...
Read moreLast week saw the return of the Ölüdeniz International Air Games (20th – 24th October). This spectacular event is held every October, but sadly due to Covid 19 restrictions, last year it had to be cancelled.
The Fethiye region is famous for it’s paragliding from Babadağ (father mountain), with those brave enough to take part gaining the most spectacular views of the iconic Ölüdeniz Beach and Blue Lagoon.
Up until this year, access to the top of Babadag was only possible via a somewhat frightening, but very worthwhile, drive up via the mountainside road. However, the long-awaited cable car (teleferic) opened early this year at a cost of approximately 350 million TL. (see our earlier blog on the teleferic). Babadağ cable car has made the journey that used to take approximately 35-40 minutes by car possible now in just 16 minutes. The cable car stops at 1200 metre and again at 1700 metres, and then you can get a further chair lift up to the very top summit. There are fabulous restaurants, a koi carp pond and it is the best place to watch the sunset, however make sure you take a jacket as it can get chilly quite quickly after the sun goes down.
The air games was started in 2000 as a way of extending the paragliding season. Would you believe that in 2020, 73,910 people flew by paragliding from Babadag.
This years air games saw over 1500 people take part, from all over the world. There were several competitions held including World Spot Landing and World Acro Competition. In addition there were paramotors, microlights, paragliders, base jumpers, winged suits and aerobatic displays. Displays were not just isolated to Ölüdeniz, Fethiye town also saw hot air balloons, microlight and paramotor displays. On Sunday, for the grand finale there was a stunning display from the Turkish Stars – THK (Turk Yildizlari), the Turkish Air Force aerobatics team. The Turkish Stars were formed in 1993 and is currently stationed at the Konya airbase. Eager spectators took to Calis Beach, its restaurants, bars and even boats, to get the best view of the display by the 6 NF5 fighter planes.
This new contempory design Bungalow is a brand new Project we are delighted to offer to our property portfolio here at Turkish Coast Homes. It is an ideal property Project for anyone seeking to relocate to a more peaceful way of life with all the luxury of todays modern...
Read moreThis new contempory design Bungalow is a brand new Project we are delighted to offer to our property portfolio here at Turkish Coast Homes.
It is an ideal property Project for anyone seeking to relocate to a more peaceful way of life with all the luxury of todays modern living. The location is in the village of Kabaagac surrounded by beautiful countryside views. It is 20km away from Seydikemer town center.
The Project has been thoroughly thought about and taking in to mind the needs of everyday modern lifestyle. It has a private plot of land 700 sqm, car parking, private swimming pool, seating and bbq area within the garden.
A one storey open plan property the house comprises of
3 bedroom 3 en-suite – 140sqm
Entrance hallway has utility room and convenient w.c. To the right is spacious open plan living with high wooden beamed ceilings, stylish fully fitted kitchen with plentiful units and work surface, dining room going through to main lounge with full lenght patio doors providing plenty of light into the house. Doors open out onto covered terrace area where you can enjoy al fresco dining.
Down the hallway leads to the bedrooms. Each of the bedrooms has its own en-suite with roof windows and patio doors which also open out onto the decking area surrounding the pool.
Key features :
Private swimming pool
Large plot 700 sqm
Car parking
Seating & BBQ area
High ceilings
Open plan modern living design
Peaceful location
New Bungalow Project for sale price 199.000 GBP
If you are interested in having a dream home built in Turkey please get in contact with us today here at Turkish Coast Homes as we can assist with the whole process from locating the right land and designing the best project suitable for your needs seeing the construction take place and being completed with you being the owner of your dream property in Turkey
Fethiye Skylift cable car up to Babadag Opened earlier in the year this magnificent new edition to Fethiye is the Skywalk cable car that lifts you up to the heights of the spectacular Babadag mountain. This new project has made a huge effect to Fethiye and will accelerate the...
Read moreFethiye Skylift cable car up to Babadag
Opened earlier in the year this magnificent new edition to Fethiye is the Skywalk cable car that lifts you up to the heights of the spectacular Babadag mountain.
This new project has made a huge effect to Fethiye and will accelerate the tourism sector bringing it to the highest level.
The views from the cable car journey vow to be stunning, from the turquoise waters of Oludeniz to the snowy summits of Babadag Mountain.
From the highest point, those looking for an exciting adrenaline rush can enjoy paragliding down to the beach below. The paragliding community on Babadag Mountain is one of the most well known centers in the world.
The Skywalk cable car is set to convey a million individuals per year and will make a great contribution to tourism in the area. In only one hour 500 passengers can be conveyed from Ovacik to Babadag and when the current pandemic eases the one million passengers per year can be accomplished.
The journey from the base to the height of Babadag Mountain is said to takes a 10 minute ride. The cable car will begin its journey from Ovacik and advance to 1.700 meters where bistro will be and where the primary paragliding platform is found.
This cable car is expected to increase the tourism capability of Fethiye by 30-40 percent.
The sublime Skywalk cable car will have lines that will serve at 1700m-1800m and 1800m-1900m and will likewise incorporate ski lift lines.
The cable car will in addition be a great help to decreasing motor vehicle traffic up to the highest point of Babadag Mountain, and as people who have travelled up via car, this trip can be pretty hair raising. It is said that Skylift will not only boost tourism yet will likewise boost rental and property demand greatly in Fethiye.
At the time of this publication the skylift has proved very popular even with the locals taking firstly to try the exciting cable car ride up to the beautiful Babadag mountain.
The cable cars starts running from 07.00am until 20.00pm every day and expected to run throughout the year.
The cost is only 80 TL return per person. Each of the cable cars seats 10 people there are a total of 61 cable cars constantly going round.
There is a choice of two platforms to alight at 1200m or 1700m both of which have restaurants and provide stunning views of over Oludeniz and the surrounding coast.
If the 1700m isnt high enough for you there is also the option to take a separate chair lift up to the very top of the mountain, on a clear day you can even see Rhodes from here.
This year the open air Oludeniz games festival will take place from 20th – 24th October so expect this to be a very popular time !
A selection of great apartments ideal for all year round residential living in Fethiye. If you are thinking of relocating to Fethiye and searching for a nice town residence located apartment then we have just the right choice of these property portfolios which are new to our listings. One...
Read moreA selection of great apartments ideal for all year round residential living in Fethiye.
If you are thinking of relocating to Fethiye and searching for a nice town residence located apartment then we have just the right choice of these property portfolios which are new to our listings. One of these could be the ideal property for your needs !
Nice Fethiye apartment for sale 2 bedroom town views
This residential property is ideal for anyone looking to take a first step into the Fethiye property market it is located in the quite residence of Hidirlik. Situated within a small block of apartments it has spacious modern living throughout with nice balconies overlooking the surrounding town.
New on the property market for sale with Turkish Coast homes this is a good property for all year round living and close to all local amenities including road transport links and shops.
Apartment in brief: 2 bedroom 1 bathroom + w.c – 90sqm
Located on the first floor of the block entrance hallway is wide having separate toliet & wash basin . Leading onto large open plan main living area offers nice comfortable lounge with door opening onto nice balcony with wonderful views over the whole town. A stylish fully fitted kitchen with plentiful units built in oven hob and extractor fan plus black worksurface.
There are two good sized bedrooms one has balcony. Shared main family bathroom with shower .
All in all this property is well cared for furniture is neogotiable
Key features include:
Modern fully fitted kitchen
Spacious rooms
Nice balconies with wonderful town views
Laminated floors throughout
Air-condtioning units
Double glazed Windows & doors
New water boiler
New on the property market for sale with Turkish Coast Homes Fethiye apartment for sale price 59.900 GBP
This spacious 3 bedroom apartment is for sale in Fethiye, Turkey. The apartment is in a smart looking, small block of well looked after apartments. Due to its elevated position it benefits from spectacular views of Fethiye and the surrounding mountains. It is in the residential area of Tasyaka which is a very popular location due to its close proximity to all local amenities and public transport links.
The apartment is situated on the 1st floor and is all on one level. On entrance you are immediately greeted with a spacious hallway with room for plenty of storage. Off of the hallway there is access to all of the rooms. There is a good size separate kitchen with modern kitchen units, a spacious lounge, 3 double bedrooms, a shared family bathroom and a separate WC. All of the bedrooms have access to a balcony. Off of the lounge and kitchen is access to a large enclosed balcony with a built in barbecue. The property has been well looked after by its current owners; it is well decorated, tiled throughout and has UPVC windows. The apartment comes partly furnished, including white goods, curtains and blinds, light fittings and air conditioning units throughout. This apartment is an excellent opportunity for anyone wanting to make a permanent move to the Fethiye area. It would also make an ideal investment opportunity.
This apartment is only a short walk to a main dolmus (minibus) station where you can find buses to Fethiye, Ovacik, Hisaronu and Oludeniz. It is in a very convenient location, close to many shops, supermarkets and restaurants. There is even small supermarket just a stone’s throw away! The beautiful harbour town of Fethiye can be reached by car or bus within 15 minutes. The charming beach resort of Oludeniz and the famous blue lagoon is also just a 15 minute drive away. The popular holiday resorts of Ovacik and Hisaronu are even closer!
Some of the key features of this property
This apartment is priced at £79,000
Fethiye centre apartment for sale duplex property 3 bedroom
This is an ideal property for investment in Fethiye a brand new high quality stylish duplex apartment located in an central area with all amenities close by, within walking distance to many shops, banks and schools.
An ideal apartment for all year round living set within a nice residence block which has shared landscaped gardens.
Situated on top floor of the block the property comprises of :
3 bedroom 2 bathroom ( 1 – ensuite ) – 120 sqm living
Entrance level has hallway with main bathroom suite and first double size bedroom with balcony. Off the hallway infront leads to spacious modern open plan living with stylish fully fitted kitchen units and marble worktop, lounge area has spotlighted ceilings and patio doors open onto nice size balcony.
Upper floor has Master bedroom with en-suite facilities and further double bedroom .
Features :
Laminate floors, double glazed patio doors, electric shutters, underfloor heating system, intercom, smart home system
A first class Fethiye property for sale as new price 1.500.000 TL – 125.000 GBP ( Please note price may change slightly due to Exchange rate )
Get in contact with us today and let us know what your exact property requirements are , we are here to assist you in finding the right property for you ! We will work together for you I aim is to provide you a plesant knowlegable fullfilling experience .
Moving to Turkey Many people will question is it feasiable for them to live in Turkey permanently. The answer is yes many other people have already taken this route in life and are living excellent an lifestyle here in Turkey and enjoying the retirement years here. However like most...
Read moreMoving to Turkey
Many people will question is it feasiable for them to live in Turkey permanently. The answer is yes many other people have already taken this route in life and are living excellent an lifestyle here in Turkey and enjoying the retirement years here.
However like most major decisions in life potential expats should ask themselves many whole hearted questions whether living in Turkey is best for you.
A Guide to living permanently in Turkey
1: Non – working expats
Most non-working expats either relay on private and state pension. In addition some will sell there property in there home country to exchange money into the Turkish Lira and deposit into high interest savings accounts which they then will withdraw the monthly interest after paying Tax. This allows for people to lead a productive lifestyle without ever touching the net value. You have to take into account that the interest rates can also go down as well as up therefore keep this in mind for your monthly budget.
2: Cost of living in Turkey
This oh course depends on the type of lifestyle you intend to live. If you are not on any budget as an expat you can lead a luxury life to the full, travelling, eating out, wine and dine, enjoy many fun days and evenings out. Most of us will stick to a budget in the Medditerain coast of Turkey you can enjoy a good life on 5.000 Turkish lira a month with careful budgeting and not owing a car. Taking into account for other expenses such as medical bills, health insurance, residency these will all be extras.
3: Money mistakes
You have to take control of Money management and remember as mentioned earlier interest rates can go down. Likewise the the Turkish Exchange rate is high, giving expats more for their Money then ever before, although the Turkish government is working hard to lower it. Therefore if you are receiving and income in foreign currency allow for fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Before moving here make a financial budget for each month and stick to it. Do not compare prices to the UK because you will get a better bargain when thinking of the Turkish Lira.
4: Residency permit and Health insurance
A residency permit is a must to live here permanenty, applicants need to prove two things. Firstly is you can financially support yourself. The second is adequate health insurance if you are under 65. Most foreigners will choose to use the government run SGK insurance system which operates for couples and singles. Residency permit for expats on first application will receive a one year permit, which then can be moved to two and three years on subsequent applications.
5: Benefits of living in Turkey
So Fethiye gloats of the most staggering landscaped scenes, a simplicity of living, minimal cost of living, resonable property costs and it is easy to settle in, however indeed, the typical Mediterranean lifestyle charms by far most back to the region. A respected reputation on both the travel and expat scenes could be credited towards various parts, be that as it may, yet the relaxed and outdoor life genuinely sums up what Turkey is all about.
Non-working expats quickly embrace Turkish culture and stop clock watching, they live in the moment. Regardless of whether or not they relax by the pool or beachside or get themselves involded into good cause and get togethers social events, rushing about, hustle and bustle is non-existent.
Expats like alfresco dining, late mornings, and a healthy eating routine that makes them feel ten years more youthful, consequently they’ve been there for a long time and will undoubtedly continue for many more years to come. For them, their Turkish property is something other than just a house or real estate investment, it is presently a place they call home.
10 Best places to visit in Fethiye on the Turquoise coast Fethiye located on the South West coastline of Turkey, is one of the most favorite travel destinations in Turkey. Each year the resort town of Fethiye draws a huge number of local and foreign tourists. With its wonderful...
Read more10 Best places to visit in Fethiye on the Turquoise coast
Fethiye located on the South West coastline of Turkey, is one of the most favorite travel destinations in Turkey. Each year the resort town of Fethiye draws a huge number of local and foreign tourists.
With its wonderful sea shores, valleys, bays, islands and beaches along with its historical past, charming old cobbled streets with shaded eating places and beautiful butik shops near to the vast marina and sea fronts. These natural beauties of Fethiye make it the perfect place for those wanting to escape the city life and enjoy the fresh air and delights that Fethiye has to offer.
Here are some of the places to visit if you are planning a break here in Fethiye.
Oludeniz
Also famously known as the Blue Lagoon, Oludeniz is a popular beach resort and proberly one of the most photographed beaches in Turkey. Thousands of tourists visit Oludeniz each year to enjoy its magnificent scenery and clear blue sea. The Blue Lagoon offers shallow waters therefore great for families you can spend hours relaxing or enjoying more actitives for those brave of heart such as paragliding and for extreme sports lovers there are water sports and kitesurfing on offer
Calis Beach
This wonderful long stretch of beach is 4 kilometers long it is a popular place for family holidays the beach here always offers a wonderful breeze. As well as its natual beauty Calis offers water sport activites, as well as its natural beauty. Along the beach fronts there are many nice places to eat for evening entertainment and a wide choice of restaurants and shops . Calis is great spot for watching the magnificent sunsets a visual feast for those who want to walk in the warm summer breeze.
Butterfly Valley
Announced a first-degree natural protected area on Turkey’s western coast of Fethiye, Butterfly valley is perhaps the most intriguing natural wonders in this area of Turkey. Any type of development is prohibited in the area, and the valley’s location is hidden away, you can visit the valley by boat you will encounter nature, the wonderful blue sea ,fresh air, colorful butterflies flying above a hidden valley waiting to be explored.
12 islands boat tour
Perhaps of the most mainstream boat tours in Fethiye is called “12 Ada Turu,” which signifies “Tour to 12 islands” in Turkish. Try not to be tricked by the name however, as the tour typically just visits five to seven islands – including Kızılada, Delikli, Yassıca, Tersane and Pig. The last stop is Knight Island, which is the one toward the end of Fethiye. The tour is a great day out as the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the mesmerizing view have quite an impact.
Babadağ (ancient Mount Cragus)
You cannot come to Fethiye and visit Oludeniz beach without noticing the Paragliding. For the very brave of heart you can tandem paraglide from the foothills of Babadag and fly over the magnificent Oludeniz. You don’t really need to have any kind of special training for paragliding in Fethiye as there will be a professional coach with you the whole time. It is a famed sport and must be the one with the most adrenaline!
Dalaman River
The Dalaman River is another objective in Fethiye for extreme sport lovers. Viewed as quite possibly one of the most energizing rafting routes in Turkey, the Dalaman River offers extraordinary boating encounters for local and foreign adrenaline enthusiasts.
Saklikent Gorge
Saklikent Gorge is situated 45 kilometers away from the popular holiday district of Fethiye and located in the middle of the Saklikent National Park. The magnificent greenery there takes you into the core of nature. At the entrance of the national park at the point of paying the entrance fee, you cross over a bridge with the water from the Saklıkent River streaming under your feet. Amazing nature and fresh air is great for the soul and such a peaceful place a perfect day out.
Cennet Bay and Katrancı Bay
Cennet Bay or Balartı Bay, appropriatley named Paradise Bay, is quite possibly the most popular bay in Fethiye after Butterfly Valley and Kabak Bay. The bay accepts visitors with its wonderful nature and is encircled by great mountains, with delightful turquoise sea and sand. Katrancı Bay is a perfect choice if you want to enjoy peace, clam and beautiful nature.
Fish Market
Fethiye is also famous for the central Fish Market, where you can purchase a selection of seafood to your choice and have it cooked for you at some of the adjoining fish restaurants. The fish market comprises of a round fish counter in the middle with restaurants set around it. The spot, which permits you to have any kind of seafood accompanied by a beverage and Turkish mezes, it is also a frequent destination for holidaymakers.
Paspatur
At the heart of Fethiye is the historical Paspatur Market, it takes it’s visitors on an mystical journey with its souvenir shops, boutiques, carpet shops, cafes, rug shops, and jewelers. The narrow shaded cobbled streets with many unique stores make you literately plunge into the Turkish culture.
