While cruising between Fethiye and Antalya, consider adding a stop at Olympos to your itinerary. Visible from the shore, this former Lycian League ancient city was once a thriving trading port and enjoys breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. Here, you can explore the remains of a Roman Theatre, temple, basilica, acropolis, and Roman Baths. You can also visit Chimaera, where eternal flames emerge from the ground. Some say these enchanting flames come from a fire-breathing beast within the mountain – but on the tour, we’ll leave that for you to decide!

The History of Olympos

The ancient city of Olympos dates to the Hellenistic period, with its origins stretching back to the 4th century BC. Over the centuries, Olympos has been home to many great civilisations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, who each left their mark on the landscape.

Olympos’ strategic maritime location helped the city flourish and become a major port in the Lycian League, a confederation of independent city-states. Later, under Roman rule, it became an important commercial trading centre and became known as a centre of politics.

Despite its prosperity, the city began to decline in the Middle Ages and was largely abandoned by the 15th century as other commercial hubs sprung up along the coast. Today, the site lies in ruins, but the remains of many of the highlights are still evident. During a tour, you get a fascinating glimpse into the past. The site is also accessible from the coast, so visiting here makes for an interesting excursion ashore in beautiful surroundings.

Highlights of Olympos

On a tour of Olympos, you’re treated to a walk back in time. The ruins have eroded, but you can still imagine how life may have been during its heyday. Highlights of Olympos include:

The Roman Theatre

Perhaps the main highlight of the ruins at Olympos is the Roman Theatre, which is pretty well preserved and would once have held several thousand people. This theatre hosted public gatherings, social events, and performances, and its tiered seating and stage are still evident.

The Necropolis

The necropolis at Olympos features rock tombs and sarcophagi adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. It gives a fascinating insight into the beliefs of the ancient Lycians. The most notable tombs are carved directly into the cliffsides and hills and would have taken many years to carve.

The Temple of Hephaestus

Although now lying in ruins, the Temple of Hephaestus is dedicated to the God of fire and metal. The columns and foundations suggest this would have once been grand and used as a spiritual centre for religious purposes.

Roman Bath

Located near the old city’s main harbour, the ancient Roman Baths at Olympos would have been used daily. They were remarkably sophisticated for the time and had marble pools and heating systems. On a visit, you can see the remains of the caldarium (hot bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and frigidarium (cold bath).

Byzantine Basilica

The ruins of a basilica lying among the ruins are a reminder of the city’s transition to Christianity. Parts of the apse, nave, and aisles remain, and some inscriptions and mosaics are still visible.

Acropolis

The ruins of the Acropolis, which served as a refuge and vantage point during attacks, are sat atop a hill overlooking Olympos. Although in ruins, some of the defensive walls and structures remain, and from the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the mountains and Med.

Harbour and Defensive Walls

The natural harbour at Olympos was once the soul of the city and a prominent trading centre. Its remains, including the ancient quay and docking areas, can still be seen today. The harbour is surrounded by the ruins of defensive walls that were destroyed and rebuilt during many conflicts until the city was eventually abandoned.

The Eternal Flames of Chimaera  (Yanartas)

The Chimaera near Olympos is a natural wonder often referred to as the “eternal flames”. The flames are fuelled by methane gas that seeps through the earth’s crust, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that has burned for thousands of years.

Many myths and legends surround Chimaera. The ancient Greeks believed the flames were the breath of a mythical fire-breathing monster who was especially active at night, as the flickers look especially impressive after dark.  If you are visiting Olympos, a trip to Chimaera can easily be included, just ask us to add a tour to the itinerary.

Other Things to Do at Olympos

Beyond the ruins of Olympos and the Chimaera, the area also boasts several other highlights. Olympos is understandably popular with tourists, who either choose to visit from local resorts or stay in local treehouses, campsites, and hotels in the local village of Çıralı. Other things to do around Olympos include:

• Spend Time on Olympos Beach: The beautiful beach at Olympos is part of a national park and is remarkably unspoiled compared to many along the coast. It is a breeding site for Caretta Caretta Loggerhead turtles. It is also perfect for swimming and relaxing, with the ruins to the rear offering an Instagram-worthy backdrop.
• Hiking and Trekking: Olympos is in a stunning location surrounded by mountains and nature. It is also close to the Famous Lycian Way walking route, one of the most impressive coastal hiking trails in the world. If you would like to spend some time away from the crowds, we can organise treks along local trails led by a knowledgeable local guide.
• Yoga and Wellness Retreats: Olympos is an ideal setting for wellness activities like yoga and meditation. The serene environment and natural beauty create a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Many local retreats offer yoga and Pilates sessions that blend traditional practices with the tranquil setting.
• Dining and Local Cuisine: Olympos and Çıralı village are laid-back, bohemian, and relaxed, famed for their treehouse and camping culture. While exploring, we can organise a stop to enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine at the various local restaurants serving fresh seafood, traditional mezze, and other regional specialities.

Add a Tour of Olympos to The Itinerary

The coast around Olympos is stunning, with many hidden coves and anchorages, secluded beaches, and picturesque swim stops that are perfect for adding to the itinerary.

If you would like us to organise a bespoke tour of the ruins and the eternal flames to the itinerary, please LET US KNOW.