Have you ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and immersing yourself in nature? If so, you might want to visit Yesil Vadi, a nature park and campsite in Fethiye, Turkey. Yesil Vadi, which means "Green Valley" in Turkish, is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil and relaxing experience for nature lovers. Whether you want to hike, bike, swim, fish, kayak, birdwatch, or stargaze, you will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of Yesil Vadi.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Yesil Vadi, including its history, culture, features, amenities, activities, and attractions. We will also give you some tips on how to get there, where to stay, and what to do near Yesil Vadi. Read on to discover why Yesil Vadi is a nature lover's paradise in Fethiye, Turkey.
Overview of Yesil Vadi
Yesil Vadi is a nature park and campsite located in Yanıklar Village, in the Mugla Province of Turkey. It covers an area of 40,000 square meters and is surrounded by pine forests, olive groves, and fruit orchards. The park was established in 1999 by a local family who wanted to preserve the natural beauty and harmony of the area. Since then, the park has been hosting visitors from all over the world who are looking for a peaceful and authentic getaway.
History and Culture
The name Yesil Vadi comes from the lush greenery and vegetation that cover the valley. The area has a rich history and culture, as it was once part of the ancient Lycian civilization. You can still see some traces of the Lycian heritage, such as the rock tombs, sarcophagi, and inscriptions that dot the landscape. The park also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as music, yoga, or art workshops. You can also learn about the local traditions and customs, such as the production of olive oil, honey, and wine.
Features and Amenities
One of the main features of Yesil Vadi is its natural spring water, which flows from the mountains and forms streams, ponds, and waterfalls in the park. The water is clean and refreshing, and you can drink it directly from the source. The park also has a variety of flora and fauna, such as wildflowers, herbs, butterflies, birds, and turtles.
You can also spot some rare and endangered species, such as the Mediterranean monk seal, the loggerhead sea turtle, and the Anatolian leopard. The park offers a range of amenities for its guests, such as electricity, water, toilets, showers, kitchen, barbecue, and Wi-Fi. You can also use the park's bicycles, kayaks, fishing rods, and binoculars for free.
Activities
There is no shortage of activities to do in Yesil Vadi, as the park caters to different interests and preferences. You can explore the park by hiking, biking, or horseback riding, and enjoy the scenic views and fresh air. You can also swim, fish, or kayak in the streams, ponds, or waterfalls, and cool off from the heat. You can also observe the wildlife and the plants, and learn about their names and uses.
You can also relax and unwind in the park's hammocks, swings, or gazebos, and listen to the sounds of nature. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also try some of the park's activities, such as zip-lining, archery, or pottery. At night, you can also enjoy the starry sky and the fireflies, and join the park's bonfires, concerts, or movie nights.
How to Get to Yesil Vadi
Getting to Yesil Vadi is easy and convenient, as the park is located only 20 kilometers from Fethiye, the nearest city. You can reach the park by car, bus, or taxi, depending on your budget and preference. Here are some of the transportation options to the park:
- Car:
If you have your own car or rent one, you can drive to the park in about 30 minutes from Fethiye. The road is well-paved and signposted, and you can follow the directions to Yanıklar Village and Yesil Vadi. The park has a large parking lot where you can leave your car for free.
- Bus:
If you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Fethiye to Yanıklar Village, which runs every hour from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The bus fare is about 5 Turkish liras (0.6 USD) per person, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. You can get off at the Yanıklar Village bus stop, and walk for about 15 minutes to the park. Alternatively, you can call the park and ask for a free pick-up service from the bus stop.
- Taxi:
If you want a more comfortable and faster option, you can take a taxi from Fethiye to the park, which costs about 80 Turkish liras (10 USD) per ride, and takes about 25 minutes. You can find taxis at the Fethiye bus station, the Fethiye harbor, or the Fethiye airport. You can also book a taxi online or by phone, and ask for a fixed price.
Where to Stay in Yesil Vadi
One of the best things about Yesil Vadi is that you can stay in the park and enjoy its facilities and services. The park has several accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets, such as tents, bungalows, or tree houses. Here are some of the accommodation options in the park:
- Tents:
If you want to experience the true camping spirit, you can stay in one of the park's tents, which are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with mattresses, pillows, blankets, and lamps. The tents can accommodate up to four people, and cost 50 Turkish liras (6 USD) per person per night, including breakfast. You can also bring your own tent and pay 30 Turkish liras (4 USD) per person per night, including breakfast.
- Bungalows:
If you want more privacy and comfort, you can stay in one of the park's bungalows, which are cozy, wooden, and furnished with beds, wardrobes, tables, chairs, and fans. The bungalows can accommodate up to three people, and cost 100 Turkish liras (12 USD) per person per night, including breakfast. You can also choose between a shared or a private bathroom, depending on your preference.
- Tree houses:
If you want to have a unique and adventurous experience, you can stay in one of the park's tree houses, which are built on the branches of the pine trees, and offer a panoramic view of the valley. The tree houses are simple, rustic, and decorated with colorful fabrics and lanterns. The tree houses can accommodate up to two people, and cost 150 Turkish liras (18 USD) per person per night, including breakfast. You can also access a shared bathroom and a shower on the ground.
Things to Do Near Yesil Vadi
If you want to explore more of the region and see some of its attractions, you can also visit some of the places near Yesil Vadi, such as Yanıklar Village, Lycian Rock Tombs, or Butterfly Valley. Here are some of the places to visit near the park:
- Yanıklar Village:
Yanıklar Village is the closest village to the park, and it is a charming and authentic place to visit. You can walk around the village and see its traditional houses, mosques, and shops. You can also interact with the friendly locals and learn about their lifestyle and culture. You can also taste some of the local delicacies, such as the olive oil, honey, and wine, which are produced in the village.
- Lycian Rock Tombs:
Lycian Rock Tombs are one of the most impressive and historical sights in Fethiye, and they are only 15 kilometers from the park. The rock tombs are ancient burial chambers that were carved into the cliffs by the Lycians, a mysterious civilization that lived in the region from the 15th to the 6th century BC. The rock tombs are decorated with elaborate facades and inscriptions, and they offer a stunning view of the city and the sea. You can visit the rock tombs by car, bus, or taxi, and pay a small entrance fee of 10 Turkish liras (1.2 USD) per person.
- Butterfly Valley:
Butterfly Valley is one of the most beautiful and secluded places in Fethiye, and it is only 25 kilometers from the park. The valley is a natural reserve that is home to hundreds of species of butterflies, especially the rare and colorful Jersey tiger butterfly. The valley is also surrounded by steep cliffs, waterfalls, and a sandy beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or snorkel. You can visit the valley by boat from Oludeniz, which costs about 40 Turkish liras 5 USD) per person, and takes about 40 minutes. You can also hike to the valley from Faralya, which takes about an hour.
Yesil Vadi is a nature lover’s paradise in Fethiye, Turkey, where you can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The park offers a variety of features, amenities, activities, and attractions, as well as several accommodation options to suit your needs. You can also visit some of the nearby places, such as Yanıklar Village, Lycian Rock Tombs, or Butterfly Valley, and discover more of the region’s beauty and history. If you are looking for a natural and authentic experience in Turkey, you should definitely visit Yesil Vadi and see for yourself why it is a hidden gem. To book your stay or learn more about the park, you can visit their website or contact them by phone or email.
You can also share this article with your friends and family, and let them know about this amazing place. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you soon in Yesil Vadi.
