Olympos

Olympos, an ancient Lycian city 90 KM southwest of Antalya, lies in a lush valley near Çıralı Beach. Once a thriving harbour and later a notorious pirate stronghold, it flourished under Roman rule before fading into history.

Today, visitors can explore its scattered ruins along the Akçay River, including a theatre, bathhouse, temple gate, and the sarcophagus of Captain Eudemos. The Necropolis church, Acropolis hill, and the Propylaeum of a temple dedicated to Marcus Aurelius also stand among the remnants. Nearby, the eternal flames of Yanartaş (the Chimaera) flicker mysteriously, a site once sacred to Hephaestus, the god of fire.

The Olympos Beach, framed by ancient relics, offers a tranquil retreat, while the surrounding national park tempts adventurers with trekking, climbing, and sea sports. Just a short distance away, the Olympos Teleferik cable car carries visitors to the summit of Mount Tahtalı, where breathtaking views stretch from the coastline to the Taurus Mountains.

For those planning multiple visits, a 10-entry ticket over 10 days provides extended access to this timeless site.

Beydağları Coastal National Park

Stretching 34,425 hectares along Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast, Beydağları Coastal National Park encompasses the ancient ruins of Olympos, Phaselis, and Idyros, as well as pristine beaches, dense pine forests, and towering peaks.

Within the park, the eternal flames of Yanartaş burn atop rocky slopes, a natural phenomenon linked to ancient myths.

Visitors may also encounter rare wildlife, including imperial eagles, caracals, and mountain goats, alongside 865 plant species, 25 of which exist nowhere else in the world.

Tomb of Captain Eudomus

The Sarcophagus of Captain Eudomus, one of the most intriguing finds in Olympos, is located near the river mouth in a rock cavity. It stands out with the relief of a ship, which is notably depicted without sails, masts, or oars. Aphrodite, goddess of love, beauty, and desire, is also depicted on the stone.

This sarcophagus is considered the most interesting among the ruins discovered in Olympos and provides valuable insight into the ancient maritime culture of the region.

(Nearby Olympos) Çıralı

Çıralı is a picturesque agricultural village in southwest Türkiye. Situated within Beydağları National Park, it remains a protected area, free from large resorts and big crowds of tourists. Çıralı is within walking distance of the ruins of Olympos and Yanartaş.

Its 3 KM-long beach, a key nesting site for Caretta caretta turtles, is among the best-preserved shorelines in Türkiye.