From Kaya we caught the bus from Fethiye to the Cirali junction and then a dolmus (mini van) down the steep mountains into Cirali / Olympos National Park. Wonderful forests and walks, the ancient Chimaera (referred to by Homer in the Iliad and still burning to this day) of Greek and Roman legend, the ruins of the city state of Olympos and a sweeping Mediterranean beach which is home to the protected Caretta Caretta (loggerhead turtle).
A very beautiful place and a wonderful hotel to chill out and relax. We walked the steep climb (at night with torches) to see the burning gases alight as they seeped from the rocks. We were surrounded by the fallen remains of a temple to Vulcan. We walked the ruins of Olympos. Not as spectacular as others we have seen, but the setting along a river and surrounded by beach, beautiful forests and some wildlife made it a "ruins" experience to remember.
In between time we kicked back and relaxed, drank and ate and gathered our energies for the coming adventures in Croatia. We pondered how we would miss the friendly people, the openness and genuine hospitality of the Turkish people. We had used their efficient, comfortable bus system and met many locals, a way thet we found we preferred to travel because of that.
Of course, layered on top of that was the amazing Turkish food, its wine and the magnificent Raki. At Kaya and Cirali we had some wonderful evenings as well as days. Jeanne's food in Kaya was unforgettable and Saban's food at the Canada in Cirala was also excellent.
Look out for the pics of the bee and the frogs, I was wrapped to get them. the Olympos environment was brimming with life and very healthy. I want to write more but it will have to wait - a traditional Croatian dinner with Croatian wine beckons. Ash
