What a Treat!
August 3rd to 6th
Leaving the Dalyan area behind, we set off in the easterly direction towards our last major stop in the area of Fethiye. This is as far as we would be able to go and still make it back to Bodrum in time for Julia to catch her flight in the early morning of August 14th. Our destination was the Gulf of Fethiye which is known for many beautiful bays and little inlets in which we could anchor. The area is frequented by sailing and power yachts of all sizes and styles. In one bay we even saw a super yacht complete with its own helicopter on the top deck! Every time we think we have seen the biggest yacht (sailing or motor), we see another one that is bigger. There certainly are some beautiful boats enjoying the Turkish Riviera.
The Gulf of Fethiye proved to be quite busy and we were not sure we would be able to find space to anchor and tie off to shore, but persistence paid off and we were able to locate a good area in the beautiful water we have come to expect. But, this is the first time I have actually felt that the water was too warm for swimming! It felt a bit like a bathtub. We enjoyed our afternoon and evening there before continuing through the Gulf to the city of Fethiye, a major tourist destination in the region.
To make the most of our day at the Yacht Club Classic Hotel, we decided to anchor in the harbour at Fethiye the day before our reservation so we could arrive early at the dock the next morning. The water in the harbour was not water that looked desirable for swimming so we passed on that in favour of going ashore in the dinghy to take a look around. As we approach the harbour wall to tie up, we were welcomed by a large sea turtle that surfaced at the bow of the dinghy! After a very tasty donair for lunch at cute little waterfront food stand, Neil went off to explore the ruins/tombs at the top of the hill while Julia, Finnegan and I decided to take a look around at some of the shops. It turned out that we were not much in the mood to shop in the heat, so we hit up Starbucks for a cool lime refresher while we waited for Neil.
Hello Hansens! It always boggles my mind to see ancient tombs or spaces carved into cliff-sides. Especially if you think about the technology available at the time they were created!
ReplyDeleteAustralian tips about where to stay? Yes please! What a find! I am so glad you have had such a wonderful time together! Everyone looks well and sun-kissed! Post a picture of the sea turtle if you have one, please!
Carole, a special toast to you as we approach Labor Day weekend, and your FIRST of MANY, not to be starting school! Have a special cocktail and a moment of peace, appreciating your official beginning of retirement! You make retirement look great!
I hope Julia has a great start to her year! What better way to prepare mind and body before work than on a beautiful sailboat!
Safe travels. Happy "first day of school...NOT".