15 UNIQUE VILLAGES

Akçapınar

It is located in the Ula district of Muğla. The road lined with eucalyptus trees in the form of a tunnel is the most important symbol of the village. The trees were planted by the then Governor of Muğla, Recai Güreli, in 1939 to drain the swamp and enable passage from Gökova to Marmaris. It has been used for many years. Today, it functions as a "monumental road" where tourist groups are given special photo breaks.

The village took its name from the spring passing through the village. It is a village that was founded by migrations and whose history is not very old. It is located within a natural protected area. Like other villages in the region, it is also within Special Environmental Protection Areas. For this reason, the zoning rate has remained very low.

Although it is one of the villages on the coast of the world-famous Gökova Gulf, it earns its main living not from tourism, but from fishing, which is another richness of the same gulf. Again, agriculture and animal husbandry take precedence over the tourism sector. Agricultural products grown in the village include sesame, citrus varieties, pomegranate, avocado and kiwi.

In the village, where fishing is the main source of income, dishes made with seafood come to the fore in homes and in 2 restaurants. In addition to steamed fish, stuffed calamari, stuffed shrimp, bulgur pilaf, pepper with yoghurt, keskek, tarhana soup and pickles in the winter months are the main dishes.

The most important reason to visit Akçapınar, one of the frequent destinations of passengers arriving or departing from Marmaris, is short breaks sweetened with toast, ayran or fresh fruit juice. Organic products such as tarhana soup, jam, pickles, honey, oil, dried herbs, dried food, molasses, paste, tomato paste, tarhana, noodles, pomegranate syrup, bulgur, olives and soap sold in the village's grocery stores and markets are also important for visitors.

In order to revitalize village tourism, the headman's office is taking initiatives to make the Akçapınar river suitable for canoeing. It is also expected to be a preferred place for windsurfing and kite surfing in the future, like the adjacent Akyaka town. The beach, called "Long Beach", has important features for those who are looking for a quiet place with its untouched and unknown sandy beach.

"Bird Watching" in Akçapınar, which is located on the migration route of birds, is a tourism movement that has attracted visitors in recent years. The bird species that mostly inhabit the village are storks.

History: It is known that the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent had many stone bridges built for his army to pass through the swampy land in this region, which was on the route of the Rhodes Expedition in 1522. There is not much left of the bridges. The majority of the village people are Taurus nomads. The name of the village was mentioned in official records for the first time in 1944.

Population: 563 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 258

Literacy rate: 95%

Places to see: Eucalyptus road, Uzun Beach (kite surfing), azmak

Main source of income: Fishing, agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping

Plant species: Red pine, eucalyptus

Animal species: Stork, pig, water turtle, wild goose, wild duck, water crab, fish species (grouper, dentex, mullet, squid, shrimp)

Road and transportation: It is 24 km from Marmaris and 32 km from Muğla. It can be reached by mutual flights between Marmaris and Muğla every 15 minutes.

 Gökçe

The village, which is administratively affiliated with the Ula district of Muğla, draws attention with its citrus gardens on the Marmaris-Muğla highway. On the slope overlooking the Gulf of Gökova; White, 2-storey, tile-roofed houses unique to the region give the village an identity. Like the neighboring villages, the origin of the people is Yoruks. The first settlement is located on the southeastern slope, which is today called "Old Village". The people living here have been engaged in animal husbandry for many years, and have been in the plateaus in the summer and in the village in the winter.

With the transition to settled life, people started to engage in agriculture. In 1992-93, the settlement area expanded and the population of the village increased rapidly. Today, the number of households in the village is around 600. The main source of income is agriculture. Citrus fruits, beekeeping and animal husbandry are the basis of life of the village people. It is possible to drink fresh orange juice at roadside restaurants and markets 12 months of the year. Pine honey produced in the village is also offered for sale at roadside stalls. During the summer months, the fish caught daily by the village's fishermen are also sold on the roadside.

The sea of ​​Gökçe village on the Gökova coast is one of the places frequented by windsurfers, like the neighboring Akçapınar village. Currently, 5 villas in the village are in service for tourism purposes throughout the year. If you take a nature walk from the village center towards the sea, you will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of bird species depending on the season.

During the citrus season between November and March, the white village houses among the golden orange and tangerine trees create a real "Mediterranean" picture for photography enthusiasts. If you can make time during your walk or while driving by, you can drink freshly squeezed orange juice and eat pancakes from the stalls on the Marmaris-Muğla highway..

Handicraft and carpet rug weaving courses are constantly held in the village, especially for women. "Keşkek", an indispensable part of village weddings, is more popular here. Among the villagers, "When will the wedding be held?" instead of “When will we eat kashkek?” is asked. Asking for a girl traditionally happens on Sunday or Thursday.

History: The first settlers of the village, Yörüks, came from the Teke region. There were also people coming from Hisarönü, another village in the region, and from Kozdağı in Denizli. The transition from nomadic life to village order was made in 1939. Famous traveler Evliya Çelebi passed through these places on his way to Marmaris and described the frankincense, frankincense and pine forests by saying, "This must be the beginning of heaven." When it was first established, its name was "Ferek", meaning vine pergola. It gained village status under the name Gökçe in 1989.

Population: 1328 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 600

Literacy rate: 99%

Source of income: Agriculture, citrus fruit, fishing, beekeeping

Places to see: Citrus gardens, beach

Road and transportation: It is 22 km from Marmaris and 34 km from Muğla. Muğla-Marmaris highway passes through the middle of the village. It can be easily reached by midibuses that run between Muğla and Marmaris every 15 minutes.

Plant species: Red pine, sweetgum, eucalyptus, bergamot, thyme, sage, black pepper

Animal species: Wild boar, fox, honey bee.

Çamlı

It is one of the most visited villages of the region, where the greenery is abundant, and which brings together its visitors with the concepts of nature and history in the most aesthetic way. "Cleopatra Beach", known as the white sandy beach where Cleopatra and Antonius swam, and Sedir (Kedrai) Island, on which the beach is located, are more well-known places than the village. The village took the name "Çamlı" due to the abundance of pine trees around it. When viewed from a bird's eye view, the valley around which the village is built and the houses on both sides of the stream passing through the middle resemble flowers by the stream.

Çamlı Village has a good reputation at home and abroad with the village breakfast and meals it offers in authentic village restaurants every day of the week. Warm village bread, the region's famous pine honey, butter, pancakes, tomatoes-cucumbers, village eggs and yoghurt-fried potatoes-eggplants-peppers called "yoğurtlama" are the most attractive menus of the restaurants surrounded by greenery. Those who come from hundreds of kilometers away on summer and winter weekends to taste the natural and delicious food of the village cannot complete their tour without taking a pleasant walk in the village after dinner.

Food and beverage establishments that offer playgrounds for families with children, the opportunity to get to know village animals closely, and even horseback riding, attract attention at all times of the year. Organic strawberry gardens, the number of which has increased in recent years, are also places visited by Marmaris residents and tourists to pick strawberries. You can eat them fresh or make jam, but don't leave Çamlı without tasting these fragrant strawberries.

Marmaris Drinking Water Dam is located on the 12th kilometer of the Marmaris-Muğla highway, right across the entrance road of the village. The dam has the capacity to meet the drinking water needs of the entire Marmaris region for 3 years. In the Gelibolu stream, which is one of the streams feeding the dam, mullet and sea bass can be found, although not as much as before, 5-6 kilometers inland from the sea.

Çamlı Village is a village that manages to keep traditions alive. In Hıdrellez, which is celebrated every year on the night of May 5th, stuffed grape leaves, phyllo pastry and dolma desserts are made with care. It is believed that the piece of garbage placed inside one of the stuffed grape leaves made at home will bring luck to whoever finds it. Throwing raw yoghurt before sunrise and obtaining thyme juice have been traditions of the village for centuries.

 The other end of the village ends at Gökova Bay. The world-famous Gökova also contains the most touristic places of Çamlı village. Boncuk Bay, where humans and sharks swim side by side, is one of the most interesting natural areas on earth. Far from harming humans, "sand" sharks, which are afraid of humans, are found in Boncuk Bay at certain times of the year for breeding purposes.

A part of the bay is closed to visitors within the scope of coastal protection works carried out within the framework of the United Nations Development Program for the purpose of the easy breeding of sharks and the proliferation of the sandbar shark, which has become extinct. Outside of these months, Boncuk Bay, decorated with palm trees, serves as one of the most special bays of the Aegean Sea with its clear and relaxing water. Although the bay is privately owned land, it is kept open to the public for a fee by its owner.

Incekum Beach: As you head towards the village from Boncuk Bay, you will come to Incekum Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of the region, from the road branching off to the left. You park your car at the beginning of the approximately 1 kilometer road and are transported to the beach with a rickshaw attached to a tractor. Or you can reach it by sea by boat from Çamlı pier. There is a small cafeteria, toilet, shower and changing cabins on the beach. Those who wish can also have a picnic by bringing their food and drinks. At the beach known as the "Hawaii of Marmaris", you can relax in the shade of the pine trees, on the fine golden sand or swim in the sea. Since the beach is located in a special protection zone, it is only open between 1 June and 1 October and until 7 pm.

Sedir Island and Cleopatra Beach: The most touristic place of the village is definitely Sedir Island. The ruins of the city known as Kedrai in ancient times can be seen on the island. The island can be reached by boat from Çamlı pier and Akyaka town during the day between April and October. The island's beach takes its name from a legend. Locals believe that the Roman commander Antony brought white sands from Egypt to this beach specially for his lover, the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, and that the two lovers swam here together. For this reason, the beach has been called "Cleopatra Beach" for years.

When the sands of the beach were examined scientifically, it was understood that it was formed over a period of centuries due to the geological structure of the sea. It is stated that the sand grains get their white color and crystal appearance from the dense carbonate they contain. The beach is under protection to prevent the destruction of these very valuable sands. Even if you swim in the sea, it is forbidden to lie on the sand or spread a towel. The ancient Roman theater with a capacity of 2,500 people is the most important surviving structure on the island. Apart from this, little remains of the walls and towers surrounding the island and the ruins of the temple of Apollo. The island is visited by approximately 150 thousand people every year.

Date: B.C. Founded as a city of the Carian civilization that emerged in the 10 thousandth year, the city of Kedrai is the first settlement that made the name of the region known in history. Çamlı village was known as "Kallipolis" (Beautiful City in Greek) during the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman periods, and received its current name in the 1960s. During the Ottoman period, the fertile lands of the village were used by the wealthy families of the palace.

Population: 719 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 220

Literacy rate: 94%

Main source of income: Tourism, agriculture, fishing

Places to see: Sedir Island, Incekum Beach, Boncuk Bay, Gökova Bay

Road and transportation: 12 kilometers between Marmaris and Çamlı. It is 45 km away from Muğla. You can reach the village by turning left at the 11th kilometer of the Marmaris-Muğla highway. There are minibus services from Marmaris to Çamlı every hour in July and August, and at 10.00, 14.00 and 17.30 in other months.

Plant species: Pine, sweetgum, sandalwood, wild strawberry, cuttlefish, eucalyptus, plane tree, willow, mulberry, elm

Animal species: Bird species (dove, sparrow, hawk, bird, fisherman, seagull, blackbird, wild pigeon), fish species (grouper, coral, mullet, sea bass, mullet, red mullet, wedge), bee species (snake, hornet, banbus, honey bee), pig, fox, bear, marten

Çetibeli

Çetibeli is one of the smallest villages in the region with its population and number of residences. The main source of income of the village, which cannot get almost any share from tourism despite being very close to Marmaris and Gökova, is animal husbandry. Beekeeping, honey production and agriculture are other important sources of income for the village economy. There are two different rumors about the origin of the name of the village. According to widespread rumor, the village took its name from the gangs that once blocked the roads in the region, and the name "Çetebeli" turned into Çetibeli over time. Another belief is that the thorny "ceti" plant seen in the region gave its name to the village.

The village, which started to form with the Yörük settlement in the 1800s, also has stone houses that have survived from those years. The houses in the village, located on the edge of the Marmaris-Muğla highway, are structured in a scattered manner, reminiscent of rural settlements in the Black Sea region.. 

The most important difference from other villages in the region is that it has a development plan. For this reason, the village has summer residences for many families escaping from the heat of Marmaris in the summer. All kinds of colorful plants can be seen in the gardens of houses that attract attention with their garden arrangements.

The stream passing through the village adds fertility to the village soil. Surrounded by pine and sweetgum trees, the village also offers suitable geographical conditions for those who want to hike.

Sweetgum tree (Liquidamber oreantalis), which is the most important natural value of the Marmaris region, is densely found around Çetibeli. It offers a unique view and a beautiful amber scent from March, when it starts to green, until December, when its leaves turn red and fall.

If those passing through the village have enough time, we recommend that they stop and take a walk in the forest to get to know the sweetgum tree, which is an endemic plant.

Although it is known that Çetibeli does not have a seashore, a wonderful beach is actually located within the borders of Çetibeli. This beach, called Akçakapız Mansion, is not known by foreigners because it is not connected to the village by road. When you cross the hills behind the village and reach the point where it meets the Gulf of Gökova, it is impossible not to be impressed by the sight of these turquoise blue waters. In the village, there is a horse farm that serves tourism and a restaurant located in a historical mill garden on the side of the road. This mill is also known as the oldest mill around Marmaris.

The ruins on the highest hill of the village indicate the existence of a castle or watchtower, but since no archaeological research has been conducted to date, it is not known to which period or civilization it belongs. The most important agricultural plant of the village is leek. In addition to delicious leek dishes, the eggplant dish called “lak lak” is also famous. In addition, mallow, kerdime, gooseberry, radish and curry herbs are consumed in pastries or with olive oil.

Bears, pigs, foxes, hedgehogs, badgers and rare lynxes in the region can be seen in the forests and wetlands around the village. Bird diversity is also high. The villagers complain a lot about the pigs that damage their cultivated grain lands and the bears that destroy their hives where they produce pine trees! The lynx is a closely protected species in the region and its number has increased in recent years, and it is one of the animals frequently encountered by villagers in the forest.

History: While it was a neighborhood of Çamlı village, it later gained village status. The history of the settlement dates back to the 1850s. It was used as a passage for camel caravan routes between Gökova and Marmaris, the port of this plain. Yörük families, the founders of the village, settled around 18 different water sources.

Population: 380 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 120

Read - write rate: 98%

Main source of income: Livestock, beekeeping, agriculture

Places to see: Asartepe, Akçakapız beach, Sweetgum forest

Road and transportation: Marmaris-Muğla highway passes through the village. It is 16 km away from Marmaris and 40 km away from Muğla. Çetibeli can also be easily reached by shuttle services between Marmaris and Muğla every 15 minutes.

Plant species: sweetgum, red pine, wild strawberry, thyme, sage, olive, carob, mallow, currant

Animal species: Wild boar, fox, mountain goat, badger, hedgehog, lynx (caracal)

Karaca

When it comes to the Blue Voyage and the Gulf of Gökova, one of the first places that undoubtedly comes to mind is Karacasöğüt Village. Whether you love or dislike the sea, it is impossible not to be impressed by the picturesque view of the village. While the official name of the village is Karaca, it is known as Karacasöğüt among the locals.

In the 1960s, the traditional fishing boats called "gulets" in Gökova marked the beginning of the Blue Voyage, which is now a globally recognized brand patented in the South Aegean. Karacasöğüt Village has gained significant fame through this. The village forms a natural harbor for yachts, and coastal facilities meet the electricity and water needs of boats. Küfre, Tuzla, Söğüt, Ayın Koyu, and İngiliz Limanı are the most well-known stops for the Blue Voyage in the region. The Presidential Summer Mansion is also located in Okluk Bay, which is connected to the village. Gökova Sailing Club operates within the boundaries of the village, making a significant contribution to Turkish sports by training sailors.

Surrounded by pine trees, the village is located in the Gulf of Gökova Special Environmental Protection Area, keeping construction at the lowest level. Additionally, due to the historical ruins in the vicinity, it is registered as a 1st Degree Archaeological Site. Most of the remnants belong to the Hellenistic period. Although not much remains from the ancient settlements of Amnistos and Euthenna, there hasn't been a significant excavation in the region yet. Along the 13-kilometer road branching off from the Marmaris-Muğla highway to the village, you can see every color of nature.

It's worth mentioning that you will enjoy walking or cycling in this area. Although the village has gained recognition through maritime activities, its main source of livelihood is agriculture and beekeeping. The tomatoes, peaches, and strawberries are particularly delicious. About 70% of the vegetables and fruits sold in markets in Marmaris come from Karaca Village. Villagers engage in greenhouse farming, harvesting produce from their fertile lands throughout the year. Being a seaside village, Karaca and the surrounding coves offer the best seafood in local restaurants. For those interested, there are boats organizing fishing trips in the Gulf of Gökova. The average temperature in the village is 3 or 4 degrees lower than Marmaris throughout the year.

Euthenna (Altın Sivrisi): Located approximately 2 kilometers southeast of the village, Euthenna was an ancient settlement associated with Rhodes in the ancient period. It stands as the highest peak in the surrounding area, reaching an elevation of 580 meters. On the slope before reaching the summit, there is a necropolis (graveyard), and as you approach the peak, remnants of walls, temples, rock tombs, and cisterns become visible. 

Amnistos: Another ancient settlement remains situated on a promontory near the village. Only its walls have stood the test of time until the present day. Along the coast, you can observe the remains of an ancient pier extension and harbor wall. 

İngiliz Limanı: The road continuing from Okluk Harbor passes through the small Ayın Stream and Ayın Cove, reaching the secluded English Harbor, which extends like a corridor at the end of Mal Bükü. Due to its natural structure, this harbor is sheltered from all winds, making it calm, peaceful, and safe throughout the year. During World War II, British submarines escaping from the German navy sought refuge in this harbor, staying here for several months. As a result, the local people named it "İngiliz Limanı" (English Harbor). 

Löngöz: One of the most popular spots for boats, it is highly suitable for setting up tents and camping. The area is surrounded by pine and gum trees. Behind the cove, which is a sheltered anchorage from winds in every direction, there is a protected saltwater lake surrounded by pine trees. The wood-fired fish and stuffed grape leaves prepared at the restaurant in the cove are a top recommendation for tourism enthusiasts. 

Karacasöğüt Waterfall and Karacain Cave: When heading from Karacasöğüt to Okluk Cove, you need to turn right about 2-3 km later. Right below the waterfall, there is a natural pool. One of the main entrances to the two-part cave named Somalıkaya and Suçıktı Cave, called Somalıkaya Düdeni, is located here. Amateur travelers should enter the cave with a guide and stay within 10 meters. Suçıktı Cave, located 1 km west of Somalıkaya Düdeni, has only had a 1 km section explored so far. Efforts are underway to open the cave to tourism, and its underground river can be explored with an inflatable boat.

History: Like other parts of the region, it came under Ottoman rule in 1451 after the dominion of Caria, Rhodes, Egypt, Assyria, Ion, Persia, Memadon, Rome, Byzantine, Arab, Seljuk, and Mentese Beylik. A significant earthquake is known to have occurred in the region in 226 BC. During the Ottoman era, it was connected to the village of Çamlı, formerly known as Gelibolu. The majority of the population is of Yörük origin. In 1933, it gained separate village municipality status.

Population: 630 (2011)

Number of houses: 260

Literacy rate: 98%

Main sources of income: Agriculture, beekeeping, tourism, fishing, maritime

Places to visit: Euthenna (Altın Sivrisi) and Amnistos ruins, Somaklı Kaya Cave, Ayın Cove, Okluk Cove, İngiliz Limanı

Transportation: 23 km to Marmaris, 58 km to Muğla. There are three minibus trips from Marmaris to the village every day throughout the year.

Plant species: Red pine, sage, thyme, laurel, wild strawberry, pine oak, sandalwood, laurel, carob, olive, gum tree, plane tree, oleaster, heather, myrtle (myrtle), lily

Animal species: Wild boar, bear, fox, rabbit, lynx, hedgehog, chameleon, hawk, crow, partridge, magpie, quail, nightingale, finch, fish species (sea bream, red mullet, grouper, pike)

Yeşilbelde

Yeşilbelde took its name from the lush and diverse vegetation surrounding it. Hidden among the greenery, surrounded by red pine, sweetgum and eucalyptus trees. It is a village protected as a natural protected area, so there is no dense construction. All kinds of vegetables and fruits are grown in its fertile soil. Peanuts, which are also grown in other villages of the region, are one of the most grown agricultural products in Yeşilbelde.

The village generates income by supplying organic fruit and vegetables to the yachts that come to the world-famous bays on the Gökova coast. Olive trees, which are the typical vegetation of the Aegean region, are often found around the village, where animal husbandry is also carried out in addition to agriculture. The courtyard of almost every house is decorated with vines.

The ancient tomb, leaning on a small hill next to the village cemetery, is the third unknown "rock tomb" of this region, built in the same style, after Dalyan and Akyaka. The ancient acropolis opposite is waiting to be discovered, without any excavations yet..

The lily-leaf-like plant seen on the hills surrounding the village is the "Island onion". Villagers remove the bulb of this plant from the soil, crush it and apply it to the painful part of their body to relieve their pain. Pine and eucalyptus honey are products sold within the village to visitors. Villagers also earn income by having tourists pick strawberries from the fields.

History: In the past, it was a neighborhood of Karaca village under the name "Darıca", and later it gained village status in 1998 under the name Yeşilbelde.

Population: 212 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 75

Literacy rate: 98%

Main source of income: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping

Places to see: Ancient rock tombs, forest walking paths

Road and transportation: Yeşilbelde, which is 10 km away from Marmaris, can be reached via 2 different roads. The village is reached after 1 km from the road leaving from the 9th kilometer of the Marmaris-Datça road. Or, if you are coming from Muğla, the Karacasöğüt/Yeşilbelde junction at the 44th kilometer of the Muğla-Marmaris highway (after 12 km if you are coming from Marmaris) will bring you to the village. The village is 10 km away from the junction. There is no public transportation to the village, you have to go by private vehicle.

Plant species: Red pine, sweetgum, olive, eucalyptus, wild strawberry, sage, oak, spring oak, sandalwood, hackberry, carob, laurel, briar, rosary tree, stone pine, myrtle, puree, sage, thyme.

Animal species in the village: Wild boar, bear, jackal, fox, rabbit, falcon, partridge, badger, lynx, hedgehog, blackbird, partridge, magpie, red hawk, owl, nightingale, goldfinch.

Hisarönü

It is the richest village around Marmaris in terms of history. During the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods, it was believed that the clean sea and lush nature of the region was good for many diseases. Hisarönü, the largest village of Marmaris with a surface area of ​​76 square kilometers, ranks among the first in the country in this sense. It is a region where important politicians and statesmen spend their holidays during the summer months.

There are ruins of the Kastabos town on the plain called Pazarlık on Mount Eren. This place was the center of worship of the region in ancient times. The ruins that can be seen today in Kastabos belong to the Hemithea Temple. The temple was a health temple where patients were treated in their dreams, especially childless women. It is stated that Hisarönü village is the continuation of the ancient city known as the city of Bybassos in history. For this reason, it is possible to find ruins not only in high places but also in the current beach area used as a port. It is the village where sea tourism is most popular around Marmaris, with its shallow sea and long beaches. The coastline has a length of 115 km. It is known that its always breezy air and clean water are good for those with asthma and heart disease. Breezy weather attracts windsurfers to Hisarönü. It is the best windsurfing area in the region.

The most important geographical feature of the village is that one side of the area where it is located on the Datça-Bozburun peninsula overlooks the Gulf of Gökova and the other side overlooks the Gulf of Hisarönü. For those who vacation with their yachts, İnbükü Bay, Kartal Bay, Tavşan Island and Bencik Harbor are the most suitable places. It should also be said that the sunset around Marmaris is best watched from Hisarönü beach.

There are many accommodation options within the village borders, from Turkey's most luxurious accommodation facilities to the largest tent camping area. Çubucak tent camp with a capacity of 5 thousand tents and the camping areas in Bördübet and İnbükü bays, one of the most beautiful bays in the world, offer a holiday right in the lap of the unique beauties of nature. In addition to many hostels within the village borders, there are also boutique hotels and even accommodation facilities that serve only sailors. Horse farms located in the village center provide training and tours with horses to the beach and into the forest. This is the best way to visit the village surrounded by high hills.

A type of fish dish with vegetables called “Gökçopur” is a traditional dish made at home. We also recommend you to buy corn bread in Hisarönü, which specializes in corn bread. Pine and flower honey are also among the important products of the village.

Date: The village was founded in BC. It dates back to the 7th century. The Kingdom of Pergamum lived under the rule of Rome, Byzantium and Menteşeoğulları, and after 1451, the Ottoman Empire. Suleiman the Magnificent came to Marmaris during the siege of Rhodes in 1522, and after the conquest of Rhodes, some of the soldiers settled in Marmaris and some in Hisarönü village. The old name of the village was Erine, but after the declaration of the Republic, it became Hisarönü.

Population: 2214 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 900

Literacy rate: 97%

Main source of income: Tourism, agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing and beekeeping

Places to see: Hisarönü Castle, Kastabos ruins, İnbükü Bay, Bencik Bay, Tavşan Island, Bördübet Bay, the historical mill in Değirmenyani

Road and transportation: After turning left at the 22nd kilometer of the Marmaris-Datça highway, you arrive at the center of Hisarönü Village, 1 km later.

There is a distance of exactly 6 km between Değirmenyanı District, located at the end of the village closest to Marmaris, and the center. The village center is 23 km away from Marmaris. There are minibus services between the village and Marmaris every hour for 12 months. These trips end at 24.00 in summer and at 21.00 in winter.

Plant species: Red pine, sweet gum, laurel, myrtle, maquis, pyrene, black pepper, sage, thyme

Animal species: Bear, wild boar, fox, hedgehog, badger, rabbit, blackbird, duck, sparrow, small freshwater turtle, fish types (grouper, coral, bream, perch, mullet)

Orhaniye

One of the most important tourism centers on the coast of Hisarönü Gulf is Orhaniye. Yachts coming to the gulf definitely spend the night in Orhaniye. The sea is always like a sheet in the bay. The color of the surrounding pine forests hit the water, giving the sea a color unique to this place. The environment is so calm that when you immerse yourself in the water, you cannot hear any sound other than the sound you make while swimming.

The most important touristic value of the village is Kızkumu, which attracts attention with its mythological story and geographical structure. This interesting natural beauty looks like a submerged pathway consisting of brick-coloured, coarse-grained sand and tiny pebbles in the middle of the sea. Those who walk to the end of the 600-meter sand bar, which is also popular as a beach, are astonished by the interesting structure of Kızkumu, which has been shaped over centuries by the effect of wind and waves. You can find many hostels, motels and even boutique hotels in the village, which hosts 2-3 thousand people a day during the summer months.

Kızkumu Mythology: In ancient times, the daughter of the ruler of the region and a fisherman fell in love with each other. The girl and the fisherman started meeting secretly. The fisherman was coming from the sea, the girl was waiting for him on the beach, pointing to the young man's location with a light. They were playing love games with each other until dawn. The ruler learns this over time and has his daughter followed. One night, he orders his soldiers to capture his daughter and send a signal to the fisherman with a light on the beach. When the young man sees the light, he jumps into his boat and rows towards a squad of soldiers. The girl escapes from the hands of the soldiers and starts running to save her loved one; but it is impossible to reach the other end of the bay. He throws himself into the water. At that moment a miracle happens! Everywhere the girl steps in the water turns into a path, and the soldiers chasing after her sink into the sea as they step on it. The girl runs to the boat. However, an archer targets the young man at that exact moment and shoots an arrow. While the two lovers are embracing each other, the arrow finds the girl. Those sands are dyed red when the girl's blood mixes with the sea. The young man takes his injured girlfriend and leaves. Nobody sees or hears what happens next...

Bybassos ruins: There is an island in the middle of Orhaniye Bay, just off Kızkumu, and there are castle ruins on top of the island. It is thought that the castle belongs to the ancient city of Bybassos, whose ruins have been found in the region. You can go to the island by renting a boat and follow the path to the castle ruins on the hill. The extraordinary view you will encounter will instantly relieve your tiredness.

The people of Bybassos brought water to the castle from the waterfall in the neighboring Turgut Village through arches and underwater pipes. It is thought that today's Orhaniye village was built on the slopes of the hill where the ancient city of Bybassos is located. The ruins of the city walls are located in a scattered area within the forest.

Boat tours are also organized from Orhaniye to Hisarönü Gulf. Bays such as Selimiye, Hisarönü and İnbükü are visited. Dislice Island, one of the stopping places of the tour, attracts attention with its small canyons and interesting rock structure. Coming from Hisarönü, you come across a marina that meets the needs of yachts in the Keçibükü region. The monastery ruins inside and the mosaics in the garden are worth seeing. The sea and surroundings of the village are extremely suitable for diving, water skiing, angling, underwater hunting, cycling and hiking.

Peanuts grown in the village are among the most important agricultural products of the region due to their taste and smell. Likewise, apricots are very delicious, but their production is decreasing day by day. Along with Osmaniye and Hisarönü villages, it is the village where pine honey and thyme honey are produced most intensively. A "honey festival" is held in the village every year at the end of September.

The traditional food of the village is “alahosh”, a fish dish. The fish is half-fried, not whole. Thyme juice and oil, which are used by the villagers in the region for many diseases, the oil of black hellebore, laurel, pomegranate, eucalyptus and myrtle plants, and apple oil obtained from sage, continue to be produced by the people of Orhaniye.

Date: B.C. The village, which was known as the city of Bybassos in the 3rd century, was later named Kırvasil. Bybassos Castle, which was also used by the Knights of Rhodes, was once used as a shelter by pirates. The people of Simi Island, who were exempt from taxes during the period under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, bought land from this region to make investments.

Population: 1056 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 400

Literacy rate: 98%

Main source of income: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, tourism.

Places to see: Kızkumu, Bybassos castle, historical mosque in Kocapınar, fresh water source on the opposite shore of Kızkumu

Road and transportation: After turning left towards Hisarönü at the 22nd kilometer of the Marmaris-Datça highway, follow the asphalt road and reach the village after 8 km. Another route is via Marmaris-İçmeler-Osmaniye village-Bayır village-Turgut Village, but due to the length of the road, it is recommended if you only want to see this line. There are minibus services from Marmaris to Orhaniye every day at 08.30, 10.00, 12.00, 14.00, 15.00, 16.00, 18.00, 19.30 and 21.00.

Plant species: Red pine, thyme, sage, bay laurel, olive, pomegranate

Animal species: Wild boar, fox, badger, hedgehog, hawk

Turgut

Turgut is one of the most well-known villages in the region with its history and natural beauty. It has been declared a "protected area" and taken under protection due to its historical and natural riches. It maintains its virginity and beauty. It is a village whose view, coast, beaches and waterfalls are worth seeing and whose air is worth breathing.

Turgut Village is located on a plain at sea level, surrounded by hills on three sides, between the neighboring villages of Orhaniye and Selimiye. Its surroundings are covered with red pine, the characteristic tree of the region. The gardens of the village are full of olive, orange, tangerine, lemon, almond, fig, walnut, mulberry, pomegranate, avocado, banana and eucalyptus trees. Turgut valley was a sea in ancient times, but over time it was filled with alluviums. Nowadays, it is witnessed that seashells come out of wells opened three kilometers from the sea. The soil is very fertile and crops are harvested three times a year. Peanuts grown in Turgut and surrounding villages are one of the highest quality peanut varieties in Turkey; However, the fact that peanuts could not be sold at the desired price in the domestic and foreign markets put an end to peanut cultivation. In recent years, the people of Turgut have been growing enough peanuts to eat for themselves. It receives a lot of rainfall in autumn and winter.

The beach and bay, 2 kilometers away from the village center, are one of the most untouched and beautiful bays not only in the region but also in Turkey. In this bay, there are ruins of a church and a three-room bath from the Byzantine Period. The right side of the beach is a semi-aquatic and semi-dry area where sea beans grow. Black-eyed peas, which are lush green in spring and summer, turn pink in autumn. The pink of the black-eyed peas and the blue of the sea create a magnificent image.

During village tours, you can sip your tea with the villagers while relaxing under the centuries-old plane tree in the village square, where the mosque, which is the most frequently visited by tourists in the region, is located. Peanuts, handicraft products and various souvenirs are sold at the stalls next to the square.

Turgut Waterfall: The most visited recreation area of ​​the region, but its waterfall is not a big, magnificent waterfall. Pine and amber-scented sweetgum trees surrounding the waterfall, which falls from a height of 6-7 meters, create a calming effect on the body even on the hottest summer days. Immerse yourself in the ice-cold water of the small pond under the waterfall and relax. The waterfall's pancake, trout and ayran offer a delicious lunch. The area around the waterfall is also the breeding area for "tiger" butterflies.

Hydas/Hygassos ancient city: It was a settlement built on the mountains descending steeply to the sea in the southeast of the village. It is in an important position in terms of controlling the trade routes between the Aegean and the Mediterranean. It is only one of the 18 castle settlements on the Bozburun Peninsula whose existence is known, but only half of which has been included in the literature to date. The city, surrounded by cyclopean city walls and containing an acropolis, also had a port.

The settlement was used from the end of the Late Bronze Age until the Late Antique Period. The findings show that the founders of Hydas may have been immigrants who adopted the Minoan-Mycenaean culture. A pyramidal-looking mausoleum that you will see on the slopes on the right side of the road from Turgut Village towards the waterfall is noteworthy. The low entrance of the building has collapsed. B.C. According to an inscription from the 4th or 3rd century, the tomb belongs to a warrior named Diagoras.

Turgut Castle: It is located on a hill of approximately 300 meters, near the village. You can reach up to 300 meters from the castle by car via a dirt road. The remaining part is quite steep and you have to walk. The walls of the castle, which is thought to belong to the ancient city of Bybassos, have been partially destroyed. Above the castle, you encounter the exciting view of Orhaniye and Hisarönü bays.

History: During the Roman and Byzantine periods, the name of the village was Ella. After the declaration of the Republic, it took the name Turgut. In the past, Turgut people have experienced great difficulties with transportation. Before 1950, they could go to Çubucak by boat and go to Datça from there. With the construction of the roads, transportation to Marmaris was provided via the Bayır-Turunç road. After the 80s, transportation to Marmaris via Orhaniye and Hisarönü became shorter.

Plant species: Red pine, sweetgum, plane tree, olive, wild strawberry, carob, blackberry, chasteberry, blueberry, hawthorn

Animal species: Wild boar, fox, badger, porcupine, marten, water turtle, freshwater eel, tiger butterfly

Population: 629 (year 2011)

Number of residences: 250

Literacy rate: 97%

Main source of income: Tourism, beekeeping, agriculture

Places to see: Waterfall, Castle, pyramid tomb, Hydas ruins, beach

Road and transportation: You can reach Turgut from Marmaris in two different ways. The most frequently used route is the Marmaris-Hisarönü-Orhaniye-Turgut line. This road is approximately 33 km. The other option is a road mostly used by those coming from İçmeler and Turunç. You arrive in Turgut after approximately 38 km via Marmaris-İçmeler-Osmaniye village-Bayır village. There are minibus services from Marmaris to Turgut every day at 10.00, 12.00, 14.00, 16.00, 18.30 and 21.00. In winter months, the last trip is at 18.30.

Selimiye

Once you escape from the "sea of ​​greenery" of Turgut Village, you will be surprised and amazed by the crystal blue beauty of Selimiye. The mountains suddenly lose their dark forest texture and turn into typical Mediterranean-Aegean maquis. Almond and olive trees are added to these. Then, Selimiye Village begins to greet you with its picturesque houses scattered from the hillsides to the shore.

The land structure consists of steep slopes and the fact that water is more limited than other villages has forced people to live facing the sea in Selimiye. Although the Turkmen Yörük culture is generally dominant, it is a village settled by Turks of Cretan origin.

Selimiye Bay is one of the most important blue cruise stops between Marmaris and Bodrum. Although the surrounding hills are covered with gray rocks, the coastal part is surrounded by greenery. The sea water is very clean and calm, but there is no sandy area on the coast. The nearest sandy beach is “Sığ Liman”, 2 kilometers from the village centre. The bay, which is a natural harbor in stormy weather, is in the form of a natural pool. In the volcanic region, the sea depth reaches 30-40 meters when it opens 15 meters from the coast. Small restaurants along the beach offer menus focused on seafood and olive oil appetizers.

Thyme, mallow and nettle, which grow in the region, are used abundantly in appetizers. The fish is very fresh and diverse. Depending on the type, it is grilled or steamed. Organic olive oil and bay leaf are used in steaming. Flour fish, fresh black-eyed peas with eggplant, stuffed zucchini flowers, eggplant gallesi are dishes specific to the village.

The village has a peaceful appearance, away from crowds and noise. Small but high-quality hostels, motels and aparthotels attract a lot of attention throughout the summer. Holidaymakers spend their time with various activities such as walking, fishing, canoeing and diving. The almond trees surrounding the village turn into snow-white flowers in early February, creating an appearance as if it had snowed. Due to the abundance of oxygen in the air, many people over 100 years old live in the village.

There are 3 castle ruins around the village. One is on the highest hill of Selimiye, the other is on Sarıkaya hill, and the third is in Kızılköy District. The observation tower, lighthouse, monastery and theater built to guide boats 100 meters off the coast are ruins worth seeing. Remains unearthed from shipwrecks in the region are exhibited at the Bodrum Underwater Museum.

Kameriye (Camellia) Island: It is the first stop of daily boat tours departing from Selimiye. There is a monastery at a height that can be easily climbed from the beach. The mosaic, made of black, white and gray sea stones, adorns the garden of the monastery.

History: Today, it is within the borders of Turgut Village and dates back to B.C. Since it was located close to the Hydas settlement, which was founded in the 600s, it was first called Hidas, and during the Byzantine period it was called Losta. It joined the Ottoman lands in 1391. After the proclamation of the Republic, transportation became easier and the village shifted to its current settlement.

Söğüt

Söğüt is one of the most special villages around Marmaris with its history, culture, food and sea. The old name of the village, "Saranda", comes from the Greeks who were numerous in the region in the past. Agriculture and maritime were at the forefront in the past of Söğüt, whose main source of income today is tourism. It was also used as a trade port due to its proximity to the Greek islands.

Agriculture and maritime were at the forefront in the past of Söğüt, whose main source of income today is tourism. It was also used as a trade port due to its proximity to the Greek islands. Throughout history, education has been given importance and the teachers, doctors and lawyers of the region came from this village. Some of the people, most of whom are of Turkmen origin, came and settled from the Balkans. Since the village is located in a remote part of the Bozburun peninsula for those who want to reach it by road, tourism activity is not very intense. But it is an important port for blue cruise boats. To the southwest of the village, on the hill behind the school, there are ruins of the Thysannos settlement. Since there has been no excavation, not much is visible. Among the ancient ruins, there are wall ruins and traces of foundations.

Cumhuriyet (formerly known as Saranda) District is 3 km away from the center of the village. It is seen as Söğüt's gateway to the sea. As you descend from the slopes towards the shore, you will encounter an impressive view. Although the surrounding and opposite islands appear as gray-coloured pieces of land with little green, they are in harmony with the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The large island seen offshore is the Greek island of Symi. If you have your passport with you and do not have a visa problem, you can cross by boat from the nearby town of Bozburun. This region has also attracted the attention of European tourists who want a rural life. The village houses, which were brought into tourism with the initiative of regional tourism professionals, host guests every season of the year. This tourism movement was designed for those who want to get to know the Turkish villagers closely, have a quiet holiday and eat natural products, and has started to spread to all villages in the region. Söğüt village is one of the villages most ready for tourism, with its single-storey stone houses, clear sea, fish restaurants and clean village air.

In addition to tourism, almonds and carobs also support the economy in the village. Especially the increasing importance of carob for health in recent years has led to the formation of a small sector in the village. Carob molasses produced in the village is in demand even from other cities. Willow broad beans, which were produced in large quantities until the 90s and are sold only to Marmaris and its surroundings today, are also a sought-after vegetable due to their taste. If you can find it in season, definitely try the broad bean dish or appetizer in the village. The village restaurant near Palamut Çeşmesi is also famous for its roasted meat. The most common fish varieties found in restaurants on the beach are sinarit, fangri, sokkan, melanur, istina, takoz, logic, eskina, trança, akya, lahos.

History: The history of Söğüt, together with the nearby Bozukkale (Loryma), dates back to B.C. It dates back to the 4th century. This region, located opposite the island of Rhodes, which was the most important settlement in the region at that time, was called "Rhodes Peraia". It was ruled by Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman respectively.

It is one of the villages in the region where a large number of citizens of Greek origin live and has had the most intense relations with neighboring islands throughout history. Between 1912 and 1940, when Rhodes was under Italian rule, agricultural production reached its highest level and sold fruits and vegetables to the Aegean islands. When trade with the Greek islands decreased after World War II, there was a shift towards sponge diving. It has become particularly prominent in broad bean cultivation. Broad beans, whose importance decreased witx the development of greenhouse cultivation, were replaced by tourism after the 90s.

Population: 1672 (year 2011) Number of residences: 900

Literacy rate: 100%

Main source of income: Tourism, agriculture, animal husbandry, maritime, fishing.

Places to see: Stone houses, ruins of the ancient city of Thynassos, carob and gum trees.

Road and transportation: You can reach Söğüt via Bozburun or Bayır road. Marmaris-Hisarönü-Orhaniye-Turgut-Selimiye-Bozburun-Söğüt line is also used by minibuses. It is approximately 56 kilometers and takes 1 hour. There are minibus services from Marmaris to Söğüt at 12.00, 15.00, 17.00 and 19.30 in the summer, and at 12.00, 14.00, 16.00 and 18.30 in the winter. The other line is Marmaris-İçmeler-Osmaniye-Bayır-Söğüt line. It is a method preferred by those who want to learn by traveling around the region. It passes through winding, steep and deserted slopes between Bayır and Söğüt. This 44 kilometers long road takes approximately 1 hour.

Plant species: Carob, laurel, thyme, sage, almond, fig, olive, gum tree, sandalwood, myrtle, pyrene, wild tulip, daisy.

Animal species: Golden eagle, falcon, hawk, mountain goat, pig, fox, badger, porcupine, porcupine, marten, squirrel, weasel, jackal, raven, blackbird.