Karatavuk Cottage

About this property

Characterful three-bedroom Karatavuk Cottage is a hillside haven, surrounded by lush greenery, near Kayaköy in south-west Turkey. Tucked away in the rural countryside, it boasts spectacular views over the valley and the famous abandoned Greek village below. Mediterranean features abound, from the rustic stone walls to the brick-red terracotta tile roof and colourfully patterned Kilim rugs.

Inside, the large open-plan living space has natural wood underfoot and a mixture of classic and contemporary furnishings, including a TV and CD player and two cosy sofas dotted with cushions. The walls are whitewashed for a light feel, while the vibrant fabrics add a playful pop of colour. For a real home-from-home experience, there’s a bright, modern kitchen equipped with an oven, fridge and dishwasher. There’s also a utility room with a washing machine, iron and ironing board.

The villa is set over two beautiful floors, and all the bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms and cooling air conditioning. Perfect for families, friends and couples alike, choose from the master with a king-size bed, second bedroom with a king bed or the third room with two single beds. All rooms are equally seductive, stylish and roomy, and have plenty of space for storing your holiday wardrobe.

Stepping outside, you’ll find a lovely patio dotted with potted plants and a table and chairs under cover for al fresco dining. The private swimming pool has panoramic views of the mountains and several cushioned sun loungers and umbrellas for a relaxing afternoon basking in the sun or chilling in the shade. A high stone wall, alongside trees and flowers, ensure the villa is entirely private.

While the days away on the roof terrace, soaking in the peaceful ambience on a wicker or bean bag chair, or you can explore the local surrounds. There are characteristic local restaurants and access to public transport (the Dolmus bus) 60 metres from the villa. The nearest sandy beach is also only 4km, and you’re within walking distance of the ghost village of Kayaköy with plenty of serene walking routes.

Fethiye, in the Muğla province in southwestern Turkey, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean due to its lush vegetation and soft sandy beaches. It’s a charming place where yachts and cocktails cohabit happily with quaint winding streets. Karatavuk Cottage is in rural and sleepy Kayaköy, 8km south of Fethiye, where there’s a famous abandoned Greek village.

Nestled in the mountains and overlooking Kaya Valley, it’s an idyllic spot where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Head to the atmospheric ghost village – the inspiration for Louis De Bernier’s ‘Birds without Wings’, novel – and explore the ruined buildings, or visit one of the local restaurants to try a Turkish delicacy like Menemen, scrambled eggs cooked in sautéed vegetables.

You’ll also enjoy a serene and bohemian atmosphere, and if you enjoy walking, there are plenty of routes. Stroll under the canopy of trees and check out Lycian Way – a series of paths from Kayaköy ghost village to remote beaches like Cold Water Bay (a family-friendly coastline with turquoise swimming waters and a sandy shoreline) – or cultural sites like Afkule (around 4km away). They’re monastery ruins dramatically perched on cliff ledges above the Aegean Sea.

In livelier Fethiye Town to the north, visit ancient rock tombs such as the 4th-century B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, carved into the mountains. For foodies, there’s a fish market and other markets that sell everything from rugs to fresh produce. You can sample delicious gözleme (thin dough crepes) here and then visit one of the Turkish Baths for a relaxing treat.

Accommodation

The Villa

Ground floor
- Fully fitted modern kitchen
- Open-plan living room patio doors to the pool terrace
- Dining Table and stools
- Utility room
- Twin bedroom with en-suite shower room

First Floor
- Large queen bedroom, en-suite shower room,  access to balcony.
- Large king bedroom, en-suite shower room,  access to balcony.

Outside
- Pool
- Sunbeds
- Umbrellas

Other
- Oven
- Fridge/freezer
- Hob
- Dishwasher
- Toaster
- Kettle
- Hairdryer
- Washing machine
- Iron & ironing board
- Clothes airer
- A welcome hamper is provided on arrival