MUĞLA BUTTERFLY VALLEY
MUĞLA BUTTERFLY VALLEY
Butterfly Valley is located in Faralya Village (Uzunyurt Neighbourhood) of Fethiye. Located at the foot of Babadağ Mountain, this region was called Perdicia in ancient times and this valley has been in existence for centuries. There are nearly 90 butterfly species, many endemic plants and waterfalls flowing from meters high in the valley. For this reason, this area is carefully protected and the effects from outside are minimized. Since Butterfly Valley is a natural protected area, only camping and bungalows are used for accommodation in this region. In this way, its naturalness has been preserved for many years, and the ecosystem has not changed.
Especially in the spring months, it is possible to see butterflies taking off in harmony with each other when viewed from the top of the valley. Seeing the butterflies, which are the most difficult to observe, in groups in this valley adds a completely different pleasure to those who see them. Thanks to its geographical conditions and the waterfall that flows through it and pours into the sea, the valley has an air that cools you with a warm wind even in the most oppressive summer heat, and where autumn passes like summer.
There is also a legend of this valley, which dates back to BC. According to the rumor, the Greek woman Despina, who was left behind while migrating in the Turkish-Greek population agreement, continued to live in this valley. After the valley was opened for business, Despina disappeared and it is said that her spirit still haunts the Butterfly Valley.
WHERE IS MUĞLA BUTTERFLY VALLEY? HOW TO GO?
Butterfly Valley is located in Fethiye-Ölüdeniz.
The distance between Fethiye and Butterfly Valley is about 32 km, but the time varies as the roads are bumpy and mountainous. A personal vehicle or boat can be used for transportation. It is possible to go to Ölüdeniz by personal vehicle, and then to the valley by boat. Another option is the walking path that can be used by nature walk lovers. You can have a challenging but enjoyable journey by getting off at the beginning of the valley with the buses departing from Faralya Village.
The prices of boat tours providing transportation to the valley, camping and bungalow accommodation fees are updated every year.
WHAT CAN BE DONE IN MUĞLA BUTTERFLY VALLEY?
It will be very easy to find an answer to the question of what we can do in a location where the sea, nature and fresh air exist. During the season, activities are organized in order to increase the awareness of nature protection.
- Yoga or meditation can be done collectively,
- You can take a nature walk either free of charge or accompanied by a tour guide.
- You can have the opportunity to examine the endemic plants and butterflies in the vicinity, and take lots of photos. It is important for butterflies to live, to try to speak in a low voice while observing butterflies and taking pictures, and to interfere with their habitats as little as possible.
- Mountain climbing can be done,
- You can dive in the sea,
- You can swim down the valley and camp. The sea is stony at first, but as it progresses, it becomes quite enjoyable with its fine sands and warm sea.
- In addition, if you can reach the valley by boat, Kabak Bay and Tlos Ancient City should be added to the list of places to visit.
VISITING HOURS
Butterfly Valley is open to visitors at certain times of the year. According to the list determined by the World Heritage Foundation, Butterfly Valley has been one of the protected areas. The region can be visited from the beginning of spring to the end of autumn, that is, from March to November. There is no restriction on visiting hours, but it is forbidden to stay in the valley outside of these dates.
