An eco holiday on the Mediterranean coast Fethiye in south west Turkey lies in the midst of the ruins of ancient Lycia, is surrounded by natural beauty and still offers the opportunity to sample a genuine, regional lifestyle – definitely a ‘must-see’ place.

Yonca Lodge lies on the beach in Yanıklar village some 15km west of Fethiye. From the beach the eye is drawn to a line of islands, big and small. On one side of the garden there is a river which flows into a pond, the other side is bounded by a forest. The main occupation in Yanıklar village is citrus growing, with irrigation from the Kargı River which rises in the Western Taurus Mountains before passing through the village. İt is an area of outstanding natural beauty with protected groves of liquid ambar orientalis and loggerhead turtles nesting on the beach.

A quiet beach. Natural surroundings. Breathtaking views. Hammocks in the shade of trees, gazebos for shade on the sand. The only movement comes from ducks in the pond and chickens in the garden.

Eat picnic-style in the garden

Traditional, regional home-made specialities are available at the small cooking area set up next to the river. Here you can try a savoury meat porridge called ‘keşkek’; Turkish ravioli; homemade stuffed pancakes; and the salty yogurt drink called ‘ayran’; you may also get to taste corn cooked on the wood fire. Each day we offer a different menu.

Special, enjoyable, quiet, noisy

Free activities

Fishing with a line Nature walks Table tennis Kite flying on the beach

Handmade, Eye Catching

The women of this region make eye catching textiles: embroidered handkerchieves, hand-printed cloth, hand woven covers. Traditionally these were produced for a dowry chest and we are pleased to have a selection of such textiles on sale at Yonca Lodge. You are unlikely to find similar products elsewhere – they make excellent souvenirs of your holiday or gifts for friends and family at home. Photos: Faruk Akbaş