KAYAKÖY
Fethiye’ye 7 kilometre uzaklıkta bulunan Kayaköy, tarihe yolculuk etmek isteyenlerin uğrak yeridir. Karmylasos Antik Kenti üzerine kurulan Kayaköy’ün eski ismi ‘Levissi’dir. Eski bir Rum yerleşimi olan köyün kuruluşu 15’inci yüzyıla kadar uzanır. Bölgede yaşayan Rumlar, Türk-Rum mübadelesi ile Yunanistan’a göç ettikten sonra bölgeye çoğunlukla Yunanistan’dan gelen Türkler yerleşmiştir. 2 kilise ve terk edilmiş 800 kadar taş eviyle ‘Hayalet Şehir’ olarak anılan Kayaköy’ü, her yıl binlerce turist ziyaret etmektedir.
Kayaköy, geçmişe yolculuk etmek, dinlenmek, yürüyüş yapmak ve doğaya karışmak için eşsiz bir cennettir. Coğrafi işaretli ‘Kaya Halısı’ ile de ünlü Kayaköy’de, taş döşeli sokaklarda yürürken tarihin derin esintilerini hissedebilirsiniz.
KAYAKÖY
Located just 7 kilometers from Fethiye, Kayaköy is a must-visit destination for those wishing to step back in time. Built on the site of the ancient city of Karmylassos, the village was formerly known as “Levissi.” This historic Greek settlement dates back to the 15th century.
Following the population exchange between Türkiye and Greece in the early 20th century, the Greek inhabitants of the village relocated to Greece, while Turkish families arriving from Greece settled in the area. Today, Kayaköy is widely known as the “Ghost Town” due to its two historic churches and approximately 800 abandoned stone houses. Every year, thousands of visitors come to explore this unique open-air museum of history and culture.
Kayaköy is an exceptional destination for those seeking to connect with the past, enjoy peaceful surroundings, hike through nature, and experience authentic village life. The village is also famous for the geographically indicated “Kaya Carpet,” a traditional handicraft that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. As you wander through its stone-paved streets, you can feel the echoes of centuries of history at every turn.
Beyond its historical significance, Kayaköy offers breathtaking natural scenery that perfectly complements its tranquil atmosphere. Surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills, the village is an ideal place for leisurely walks, photography, and quiet moments away from crowded tourist spots. As the sunlight filters through the abandoned stone buildings, the landscape creates an unforgettable setting that changes beautifully with every season.
Visitors can also enjoy authentic local cuisine at the charming cafés and traditional restaurants located around the village. Kayaköy serves as an excellent starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as Gemiler Bay and the Lycian Way, making it a perfect destination for a full day of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Kayaköy offers an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
One of the most memorable times to visit Kayaköy is during the early morning or just before sunset, when the soft golden light enhances the beauty of its abandoned stone houses and narrow pathways. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, creates a truly immersive experience that allows visitors to appreciate both the village’s remarkable history and its enduring natural charm.
