About Olympos

Olympos is now known for its alternative setting in nature with bungalow trea houses along the main road leading down to the marvellous beach. Originally founded during the Hellenistic period, the ruins of the old city are also crossed on your way down to the sea. The city was once one of the six leading federations of Lycia. The city also came under control of pirates, and later the Romans.

In the Middle Ages, Venetians, Genoese and Rhodians built two fortresses along the coast, but by the 15th century Olympos had been abandoned. Today the site attracts tourists, not only for the artifacts that can still be found (though fragmentary and widely scattered), but also for its scenic landscapes supporting wild grapevines, flowering oleander, bay trees, figs and pines.

Besides the beauty of its setting and its historical significance, Olympos is also well known for the magical flames of Chimaera. Springing out from the soil the scientific reasons for the natural lighting of these flames remains unexplained. Some stick to the explanation of natural gas existing in cracks in the ground, others like to think about the legend of Bellerophon who killed the Chimaera spitfire monster. With a full moon above your heads and t he flames springing out from the soil in front of you, the Chimaera flames are is a truly magical experience that many tourists seek to visit when travelling in Olympos.

Olympos is a truly marvellous sport where many backpakers needing to take a break from their journeys and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the area as well as for families who want to just sit back and relax for a week on the beach. Besides relaxing there are also many activities and daily tours organised from Olympos making it impossible for you, your friends, and your family to ever get bored!