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The stunning Butterfly Valley Turkey is like an enchanted scene from a fairy-tale. Think rolling greenery, towering cliffs, and fluttering butterflies and you've got an idea of what to expect when you visit. It's truly one of the most beautiful places to see in Fethiye and, making it even more special, you'll need to take a boat from Ölüdeniz to get there. You'll also be a stone's throw away from the beach, so you can sink your feet in the soft sands and enjoy a peaceful moment soaking up the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Where is Butterfly Valley?
Butterfly Valley is around 8km from Ölüdeniz and only accessible by boat. But don't let that put you off. The boat ride is a relaxing experience as you get to breathe in the fresh sea air, and you might even get lucky and catch sight of some shimmering shoals of fish swimming beneath the water's surface.
The valley is in Fethiye and it's a key destination along the Lycian Way. So, if you feel like embarking on a coastal trek, you'll eventually reach the Butterfly Valley Fethiye along with some other amazing sights, such as the Lycian Tombs and the remains of the ancient city of Kaunos.
Travelling to the Butterfly Valley is fairly easy as all you have to do is hop on the ferry that leaves regularly from Ölüdeniz. You can also get a boat taxi if you prefer, which usually leaves at around 11am and 2pm. To catch the return boat taxi back to Ölüdeniz, head back to the drop-off point for 1pm or 5pm. Things can change, so make sure you confirm the times there and back while booking your tickets so you don't miss your ride.
What you'll find in Butterfly Valley
The Butterfly Valley in Turkey spans a grand 86,000 square metres and you can find up to 100 different butterfly species fluttering around the valley. It's a truly magical place that's been left untouched, and it features a stunning velvet beach along its coastline. As you explore the Butterfly Valley, you'll come across lots of beautiful natural wonders including an impressive waterfall cascading from a 350m high canyon.
The valley is rich in exotic flowers and plants. It's open to the public throughout the year, so you can visit at any season. In 1987, the valley was declared as a nature reserve which has helped to preserve the natural beauty of its surroundings as well as keeping the butterflies safe. You'll spot lots of different butterfly species as you explore the valley, maybe even the famous tiger butterfly, which is most often seen in early June.
Many hikers and backpackers come to the Butterfly Valley for a relaxing walk through its lush greenery. If you'd like to join them, make sure you put on your comfiest walking shoes and have your camera at the ready. You'll pass dozens of fruit trees and vines, such as oranges, grapes, peaches, lemons, and pomegranates.
There are also a few ramshackle bungalows and tents perched here and there, but for the most part, the landscape has been left untouched. If you like, you can pitch your own tent and enjoy a quiet night beneath the stars.
What can you do in the Butterfly Valley?
Butterfly Valley is the perfect place to visit if you want to unplug and take a break from your smartphone and the continuous stream of notifications. Enjoy days exploring the breath-taking landscape and dining on classic Mediterranean dishes over in Ölüdeniz.
By the shoreline, you can lounge in a swaying hammock or find a quiet spot on the beach to soak up the warm summer sunshine. The water along the bay is clean, warm and inviting, perfect for a spontaneous swim.
Aside from hiking and exploring the region, there's a good range of activities you can enjoy such as canoeing, scuba diving, and even canyoning if you're up for the challenge.
On the beach, you'll also find a small café and shop. There, you can enjoy a few snacks and a refreshing drink before heading back out to explore the countryside. You can also pick up some unique souvenirs and gifts from the shop before catching your boat back to Ölüdeniz.
More Things To Do ideas
Find more Things To Do in Ovacik: Blue Lagoon | Lycian Way