Butterfly Valley
Butterfly Valley in Fethiye, Turkey
Butterfly Valley is located on the coast south of central Fethiye, near Oludeniz and the village of Faralya. It is a narrow coastal valley surrounded by high cliffs, with a pebble beach by the sea and areas of dense Mediterranean vegetation further inland. The area is known as a protected natural site and attracts those who want to see a more secluded stretch of coastline away from urban development.
The valley got its name from the butterflies that can be found here during the warm season. The tiger butterfly is most often mentioned, although the number of insects changes noticeably depending on the time of year, temperature, and humidity. For this reason, the valley is seen not only as a place for observing butterflies, but also as a natural bay with a landscape typical of the region.
Most visitors arrive here by sea, as the descent by land from Faralya is difficult, rocky, and requires good physical fitness. From the beach, a trail leads inland along the stream to small waterfalls, which are usually more noticeable during periods when there is enough water in the valley. For walking in this area, it is better to choose comfortable closed-toe shoes.
Butterfly Valley is interesting for its combination of several features: a seashore, sheer cliffs, seasonal streams, and a relatively undeveloped natural setting. People come here for swimming, short walks, and coastal views, as well as to see a different type of landscape from the beaches and resort areas around Oludeniz.
Butterfly Valley on the map
Butterfly Valley and the trail to the waterfalls
Here, the seashore, cliffs, and seasonal streams come together.
Pebble beach, cliffs, and a trail to seasonal waterfalls
By the shore there is a small beach area with clear water and a rapid increase in depth, which should be taken into account when swimming. The beach is pebbly, so many people find it more comfortable to enter the water in special shoes. The main part of the valley stretches inland from the sea between rock walls, where pines, shrubs, plane trees, and other vegetation typical of southwestern Turkey grow.
The main walk in the valley is the route from the shore along the trail beside the streambed to small waterfalls. In dry months, the water flow may be weak, while after wetter periods the route looks noticeably greener. In places, the path runs over stones and uneven ground, so it is more suitable for a relaxed walk without beach footwear and with a supply of water in hot weather.
From the sea, the almost sheer slopes are clearly visible, making the bay one of the most enclosed and recognizable on this stretch of coastline. Higher up, on the plateau, lies Faralya, from where panoramic views of the shoreline open up; nearby are also Oludeniz and the start of the Lycian Way. These places are often combined in one trip if people are planning a day on the coast and short stops at viewpoints.
The easiest way to get here is by boat or water taxi from Oludeniz, especially in high season, when services usually run regularly. The route by land is possible from the Faralya side, but the descent is considered difficult and is not suitable for everyone.
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