Ovacik Holidays

Ovacik is a relaxed hillside resort in Turkey’s Dalaman region, set between lively Hisaronu and the famous coast at Oludeniz. It is not a beach resort in its own right, but that is part of its appeal for many visitors: you get mountain views, a quieter pace and easy access to some of the area’s best-known places by dolmus, taxi or hire car.

The resort spreads along the road above Oludeniz, with hotels, apartments and villas backed by pine-covered slopes and views towards Babadag Mountain. Days in Ovacik tend to be unhurried, with plenty of time spent by the pool, enjoying long lunches or heading out to explore the surrounding area. Its slightly elevated position can feel fresher than the coast in the hottest months, although summer days are still very warm.

Restaurants in Ovacik are generally informal and welcoming, with a mix of Turkish grills, meze, pide, seafood and familiar international dishes. Many places are family-run, and evenings are more laid-back than in neighbouring Hisaronu. You will find bars for a few drinks, but Ovacik is better suited to relaxed nights than late-night partying. If you want a busier bar scene, Hisaronu is just a short distance away.

For beaches, most visitors head down to Oludeniz, where Belcekiz Beach and the Blue Lagoon are the main draws. The area is also one of Turkey’s best-known spots for paragliding from Babadag Mountain, with landings near the seafront. Boat trips, coastal walks and swimming stops are easy to arrange from Oludeniz or Fethiye.

Ovacik also makes a useful base for sightseeing. Kayakoy, the atmospheric abandoned Greek village, is nearby, while Fethiye offers a harbour, old town lanes, shops, restaurants and a well-known market. More adventurous day trips can include Saklikent Gorge or sections of the Lycian Way walking route. Overall, Ovacik suits travellers who want a calm base with mountain scenery, good local dining and straightforward access to beaches, boat trips and the wider Fethiye area.