B U T T E R F L Y  V A L L E Y

Leaving the beach at Butterfly Valley

Until about twenty years ago, Butterfly Valley was a relatively unknown and untouched area. For thousands of years, its inhabitants were only the butterflies and local fauna. Luckily there was (and still is) really no access to the valley by land, except for a small trail that led to villages situated the top of the valley. This near geographic isolation helped to keep the habitat pure and intact. Get to butterfly valley early. Walk to the waterfall in the morning – because in the afternoon several ferries with hoards of people arrive to do the same.

Have a swim in the Mediterranean’s most beautiful waters and relax before your next adventure – look up - you are off to Faralya Village – where you can have lunch. Walk as if you were going back to the waterfall but now take the road that goes to the right to Faralya Village. It is a climb up the mountain. There are four ropes to assist you, but it is a strenuous climb, so if you are not in good shape, do not try it. Follow the red marks on the rocks until you reach the summit (about 1 hour). At the top, past the goats and chickens, you will find George’s House. You will be greeted by George’s sons – Ramazan, Hasan, Mustafa and their families. Take your shoes off and take a seat on the pillows along the perimeter of the open air room. You will be asked to share your meal with other guests, most likely British or Australian. You will be served food – family style and you will be encouraged to eat until you burst. All of the food is grown right at George’s house and is organic.

You meal is about $1.75 per person all inclusive and All-You-Can-Eat. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also rent a bed here – open air for $1.You can get to George’s House by climb from Butterfly Valley, or go by Minibus from Fethiye (7am,11am, 5pm); Oludeniz (7:30am, 11:30am, 5:30pm) Bus back to Fethiye & Oludeniz leaves at (8:40am, 12:40pm, 4:40pm)