Much of Türkiye is steeped in history and intrigue. Along its rugged shores lie stories of ancient gods, shipwrecks, and otherworldly encounters passed down by locals through generations. These myths and legends in Turkiye are woven into the fabric of the coastline, giving each bay a unique character and a touch of enchantment.

As you explore the Aegean and Mediterranean coast, you’ll uncover many tales that blur the lines between history and myth—some so compelling they may just make you look at the landscape in a whole new way.

Whether you’re reading to expand your knowledge or for a little local info to entertain the guests, here are a few local stories about bays along the coast that you may wish to add to your superyacht itinerary.

The Ghost Ships of St. Nicholas Island and Gemiler Bay (Fethiye)

A stop at Gemiler Bay and St. Nicholas Island appears on most superyacht itineraries. It is conveniently located between Fethiye and Oludeniz and is a beautiful location that has always been steeped in history and myth.

You may recall us mentioning St. Nicholas Island in our Christmas articles, as it is here that St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, is said to have resided to escape persecution. It is also believed he was buried on the island before his remains were taken to St. Nicholas Church in Demre, and then finally to his final resting place in Bari, Italy.

Santa aside, St. Nicholas was also the patron saint of sailors and was believed to protect seafarers from high winds, storms, and danger. This is why some say strange, ghostly ships carrying the spirits of long-lost ancient sailors can be seen in Gemiler Bay on dark, stormy nights.

If you have ever taken shelter at Gemiler, you may agree the island does appear spooky in misty conditions—the arches and ruins of the old Byzantine churches and settlements against the horizon can and do create an eerie atmosphere. Although we have yet to see a ghostly ship ourselves, we do believe these old sailors’ tales add an air of magic and mystery to this beautiful, mystical setting!!

Connect with the Gods at Butterfly Valley

Tucked into a stunning turquoise bay just along the coast from St. Nicholas Island is Kelebekler Vadisi, or Butterfly Valley. Only accessible safely by sea, the bay has long been famed for its beauty and butterflies, yet a little-known myth also links it to the ancient Gods.

According to the legend, the valley where over 100 species of butterflies and moths have been recorded was once a sacred place where ancient Gods descended to earth. It is said that the Gods sent beautiful, multi-coloured butterflies as messengers to protect the land.

Butterfly Valley is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque bays along the Turquoise Coast and a favourite with superyachts and their guests. A few tents, treehouses, and a ramshackle bar and restaurant now line the shore, attracting budget travellers and yogis to stay overnight and immerse themselves in nature. It is a tranquil place to anchor, enjoy, and spot butterflies. However, we suggest you do so early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the many daily boats and their crowds of midday passengers.

Oludeniz – The Tragic Love Story of Belcekiz

Oludeniz is one of Türkiye’s most famous and popular bays. Beautifully framed by mountains and home to the famous blue lagoon, the images of its sandbank surrounded by bands of turquoise sea have lured travellers and yachts to the area for decades.

However, a sad love story about a young girl and a sailor surrounds the bay. The legend goes that a young sailor fell in love with a beautiful girl called Belcekiz on visits to the bay with his father. Their love grew each time he visited, but one day, the winds blew suddenly, and a storm entailed, so the boy tragically drowned trying to get to safety and reach his love at the shore. Some say this is why the bay is called Oludeniz, which translates as “Dead Sea” in Turkish and why the main beach is called Belcekiz after the beautiful girl who lost her forever love to the sea.

Gökova Bay – The Golden Sands of Cleopatra Island

The Gulf of Gökova is one of the most beautiful areas on the Turkish coast, and we often suggest that superyachts visit it during their travels. However, it’s also a region steeped in legend.

Gökova Bay is home to Sedir Island, often referred to as Cleopatra’s Island and home to the famed Cleopatra Beach.

It is said that Roman General Mark Antony loved the area, so he arranged for sand to be shipped from Egypt to grace its shores so he could impress his love and enjoy walks with the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra.

Cleopatra was very fussy about where she set foot and only wished to walk on fine golden sand from Egypt. This is why Cleopatra Beach and its spectacular golden shore are how they are today: lined with sand shipped from the Red Sea, with each grain a perfect sphere!

Cennet Koyu (Heaven Bay), Bodrum – Where Ancient Gods Like to Rest

Bodrum is home to many beautiful bays, but one of the most famous is Cennet Bay, which translates as “Heaven Bay” in Turkish.

Located not far from Türkbükü, Cennet Koyu is picture-postcard stunning. Its clear green and turquoise waters lap a pine-clad and white rock beach and make for many good Instagram moments.

Myths and legends in Turkiye suggest that the ancient gods also noted Cennet Bay’s beauty, which led to its Heavenly name. Local stories that Gods favoured the bay’s seclusion and tranquillity, so they used to descend from the heavens and use it as their sanctuary.

Today, there is no denying the beauty of Cennet Bay. Although daily boats and blue cruises also want a glimpse of paradise, especially during high season,  so we suggest you visit early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.

Myths and Legends in Turkiye: Visit These Magical Bays

Our list of the myths and legends in Turkiye could go on and on, as most bays have a fascinating tale to tell.

To know more about any of the bays mentioned or to add a visit to your cruising itinerary, please CONTACT US