From your base in Fethiye you are just a small ride from what is well known as “the most photographed beach in Turkey” – stunningly gorgeous Olu Deniz, well-known for the “Blue Lagoon”. Being voted “Europe’s Leading Beach Location 2011″ at the 18th World Travel Awards is one more fantastic accolade for this wonderful natural gem. Olu Deniz is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty and while popularity and commercial development has been remarkably quick, fantastic effort is now taken to ensure the beach and lagoon are cared for sensitively. Olu Deniz literally means “Dead Sea” – possibly a reference to the waters being still – the well-known spit of sandy land that juts out making what is known as the blue lagoon also protects the waters, which are cool and sheltered even during quite severe storms. But, this is Turkey after all and a number of tragic tales and nautical legends clarify a tale of how the “dead” part came about! Olu Deniz is anything but dead these days – it is a thriving, laid back resort with numerous hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. After a hard day on the beach there is plenty of choice when it comes to eating out. Those looking for something a small more (no, really quite a lot more) upbeat can head up the hill to the neighbouring “party town” of Hisaronu. Here the bars and clubs compete for your attention with their music and it really is a place to let your hair down. Olu Deniz is a fantastic destination for couples and families, particularly families with older/teenage children who may appreciate the liveliness of Hisaronu being close by.
Another reason Olu Deniz is well loved – it is the home of the highest paragliding experience in Europe – the launch area is 2000 metres up the mighty Babadag Mountain that forms part of Olu Deniz’s incredible backdrop, the landing area is on the beach itself. This is a unique experience, even for many experienced paragliders. Paragliding 2000 metres means at least 25 minutes in the air, looking down on one of the World’s most stunning beaches and coastlines. Tandem flights can be taken with qualified instructors for anyone, you don’t need to have paraglided at all. You just need to be courageous!