Butterfly Valley (Kelebek Vadisi) is a breathtaking Mediterranean "fjord" a few kilometers southeast of Ölüdeniz, near Fethiye (map). The valley takes its name from the large number of butterfly species you can observe between June and September, and is home to a number of fauna and animals. Moreover, Butterfly Valley has been recognized as a nature reserve as a protected area of the first category since February 8, 1995, and any type of construction is strictly prohibited by law. This makes Butterfly Valley a safe haven and a popular excursion destination, especially when visiting Fethiye/Ölüdeniz, or even if you are in the general Mediterranean region.
Popular Activities in Butterfly Valley
For those who love camping, calm beaches, and peaceful retreats into nature, Butterfly Valley is the perfect destination. Also, a charming little restaurant and a bar have meal and drink options during summer, so you won't have to cook if you don’t prefer to. During summer, 200 visitors per day come to Butterfly Valley to camp or stay in the bungalows. Yachts on day cruises drop anchor here for a swim in the quiet cove, and yachters often come ashore to enjoy the sand beach.
1. Water Sports
While you stay in Butterfly Valley, you can swim and sunbathe on the beach to your heart's content. The turquoise warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea are always a treat in the hot summertime, and the valley's waters are remarkably clear. Given the pebbly sand, you may find water shoes a worthwhile addition to your trip.
Water sports such as kayaking, scuba diving, canoeing, and even canyoning are possible. Scuba diving offers a particularly fantastic opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. You can find instructors in the valley or contact an agency in nearby Ölüdeniz to plan in advance.
2. Nature and Hiking
Surrounded by steep cliffs, Butterfly Valley's impressive scenery is best enjoyed through hiking. The Lycian Way, a 500-kilometer (311-mile) multi-day footpath from Fethiye to Antalya, runs along the cliff tops overlooking the valley. So, if you hike the Lycian Way, you'll pass above Butterfly Valley (Kelebek Vadisi) and get this fantastic view of the valley, the beach, and the blue Mediterranean.
3. Butterfly Valley Waterfall
There is even a waterfall in Butterfly Valley, and depending on the recent rainfall levels and season, you might have a very pleasant experience. Make sure to check with locals or your guide so you don’t hike all the way to the waterfall for nothing.
4. Paragliding
If you travel to Ölüdeniz, which is just a few kilometers northwest of the valley, you can paraglide over Butterfly Valley and witness the amazing Mediterranean scenery above the sky. And even if you don’t have any prior experience, you can easily find a skilled instructor to do tandem paragliding.
Accommodation in Butterfly Valley
Since only temporary structures are allowed in Butterfly Valley, the main accommodation options are the tents, wooden bungalows, and a few rustic tree houses that rent beds at rock-bottom prices. There are a few services, such as shared sanitary facilities, but then, the rustic life is the point here.
If you prefer hotel or hostel stays, the nearby towns of Fethiye and Ölüdeniz offer a range of lodging options.
Transportation to Butterfly Valley
There are several transportation options to reach Butterfly Valley:
The easiest way is to first travel to Ölüdeniz. From there, you can take a shuttle boat service from Belceğiz Beach and reach Butterfly Valley within half an hour. You'll find both hourly private shuttles and group tours with set schedules, typically departing in the early morning, all making the trip to the valley quite accessible.
If you prefer to use the land route, you will need to either rent a car/taxi or use minibuses departing from Fethiye. However, you will need to pass mountain roads and cliffs, which will take more time.
Keep in mind, going with a group tour might mean loud music, detours to nearby sights, and crowds. If you want to avoid these, we highly recommend using a private shuttle boat service.
—by İsmail Can Turan
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