My Honeymoon in Turkey – 1 – Olympos

We made a stop for lunch in this unique restaurant right on the waterfalls. Small waterfalls run below your table with the soothing sound of the water flowing and ducks come to your table to steal food. I can't blame the ducks because the food is amazing, like everywhere else in Turkey and the recommendation is to try the trout which is fresh and very tasty.

After lunch, we headed to Çıralı a tranquil place with natural beaches and crystal clear waters; it is an ecologically protected area which limits accommodation to bungalows and cabins surrounded by lemon and orange orchards that offer a pleasant stay with the convenience of having the beach right in front.

After settling in our bungalow we took bikes available at our place and went for a ride to the little village where you can find some very small shops with clothes, souvenirs, but we were looking for ice-cream and squeezed orange juice. Afterward, we came back and ran to the beach to take a dip in the beautiful sea surrounded by mountains, and enjoyed a chilled beer until it was time to do some sightseeing.

Alper mentioned that we should go for sunset to the most famous natural phenomenon of the place: the eternal flames of Chimera up in Olympos Mountain. The hike up to the flames is quite steep and can be a little bit challenging under the heat of the summer, however, is a unique experience once you are at the top, the landscape is fascinating! There are eternal flames emerging from small vents in the rocks, a phenomenon caused by some natural gas emissions that catch fire in contact with the air. These flames are particularly beautiful during the night.

Çıralı actually means "place with kindling" in Turkish. This is where the name comes from.

While there, we enjoyed a glass of wine that we carried ourselves and sat to watch the sunset.

Çıralı is very low key, quiet, and natural. Alper says, in February through May the flora becomes incredible. Many species of orchids are around apparently. We considered to hike Alper's favorite trail here but it was warm and we were too lazy to hike this time. Instead, we walked the 2K beach to visit Olympos ancient city, one of the 6 major cities of Lycian civilization. It was quite fantastic, not only the ruins but also the way the ruins are taken over by the lush nature here.

Visiting Çıralı is definitely the perfect escape from the noisy and hectic cities and starting our honeymoon in Turkey.