Environment

General information about the surroundings of Koycegiz 'The Pearl Of The
Lycian Coast'

On the Lycian coast (south west of Turkey) found between several well known tourist hotspots like Marmaris and Fethiye, an untouched natural area with breath taking beauty. In this area you find large mountains, wild forests within a protected nature reserve. In the big brackish lake with several small villages dotted around, waiting to be discovered by tourists. Koycegiz is one such village.

Koycegiz the village by the lake...

The idyillic Koycegiz nestles against the shore of the 52 sq km water. In Turkish the name is pronounced 'koyjez.' The lake makes a southerly connection to the Mediteranean Sea via a small winding river delta. That is why you find both fresh and slightly salty water. If the sea level rises there is salt water entering the southern tip of the lake. A lot of species enter the lake to spawn. Between the river and the sea there is a 4.5 km beach where the Carretta Turtle famously lays its eggs. There is also another species of freshwater turtle which is also protected living in the lake Koycegiz.

Protected natural areas

the environment around the lake has some rare species of trees which are only native to this area. This is why the area is a 'National Park.' The Turkish WNF in association with other nature organisations have successfully studied the 'Liquid Amber Tree' only found around here. Apart from this you find 931 different types of plants and trees of which 30 of them can be considered unique. Also in the forests you can find 175 different species of birds, wild boar, wolves and wild goats.

Why is Koycegiz so special?

Its well protected by nature organisations. There are restrictions to the building of hotels and other dwellings through strict planning control. This is why you find the skyline of Koycegiz so unique as opposed to other surrounding tourist areas. This is a major attraction giving the area a typical Turkish feel for back packers and people wanting to relax away from the hustle and bustle. In 2000 a German company built a new water purification plant which has further improved the quality of the water within the lake and eco tourism.

Climate

Koycegiz has a mild climate. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of 8 degrees celcius. The hottest mont is July with an average temperature of 38 degrees celcius.

The village of Koycegiz

Koycegiz village was first developed in 1882. The centre has 7600 inhabitants whilst the surrounding area of 21 small villages with a total of 30 thousand inhabitants. Most of the locals both live from the land and the lake. You find around a lot of small farms and produce grown here is sold on the local markets. A well known local market is the one on monday in the centre of Koycegiz. There can be found vegetables, fruit, herbs, handmade clothing and tools etc. In the open tea houses around the bazaar you can enjoy a Turkish tea or light refreshment whilst watching the world pass you by but also keeping one eye on the lake for signs of carp! One speciality that must be tried is 'Tulumba tatlysy' which is a delicious dessert. Dotted around the mountain roads you can see many bee hives from which delicious flower honey is harvested. In the centre of the village there are many bars, cafes and resteraunts where you can sample some delicious local cuisine. This area is also suitable for the adventurous traveller or nature lover.

Flora Hotel

Accomodation is provided at Flora Hotel at which there is beautiful panoramic views from each balcony and is only 25 metres from one of the premiere car fishing locations 'The Boulevard.' Flora Hotel has 16 twin rooms each with en-suite. The hotel is about 300 metres from the centre.

Excursions from the hotel

On request there are many different kinds of excursions. Such as a boat trip or visit to the mud baths. The hotel also provides internet access, canoes and mountain bikes free of charge.

Interesting things to see

Visits to Kaunos city and Tombs which are around 3000 years old and have a rich social history.

The Sultaniye water springs are located on the SW corner of the lake and have a water temperature of 40 degrees which have been in use for around 3000 years. Later on the Byzantine people started using this water source. The modern springs contain several minerals which they say have healing properties for skin conditions etc.

Ekincik

You find this beach very busy in the summer months with tourists but it is quiet in the winter months. There is a Dolmus 'tourist bus' leaving every morning.

Istuzu Beach

This beach is well worth a visit and around 6km long. There are also Carretta turtles found here. Loved by locals and tourists a like.

Taurus Mountains

These are also well worth a visit. Hotel Flora has a mountain house over there which is a great location for a picnic.

Flora Hotel is open all year round and with many budget airlines flying direct from the UK throughout the year makes this a year round fishing location.