THEBEACH Summer 2014 | Page 32

30 MAGAZINE | THE BEACH KAYA VILLAGE Former Levissi lies just 10 km from Oludeniz. It was built on the site of the ancient Lycian city of Karmylassos and was known as ‘Levissi’. After the Turkish War of Independence, the Turkish and Greek governments agreed on a population exchange. Greek orthodox believers moved to mainland Greece…. Their houses, churches and chapels still partly intact range panoramically round the slopes of three hills overlooking the Kaya plains. The site is now preserved as a ‘museum village’. The local Turks farm the land, produce apricots and almonds and provide visitors with local foods. KAYA HOUSES scattered on a hill top location overlooking to the valley below K aya is very nostalgic, with its narrow winding lanes, stone cottages; ancient maple trees all verging onto the central teahouse. For those who enjoy walking there are marked paths which lead to Oludeniz, Cold Water Beach and the Afkule monastery among others. Accommodation can be found in superior villas, stone cottages, apartments, and even tents. Barbeques, local wines and herb pancakes are all specialities of Kaya Village. Some of the old houses have been turned into workshops and ateliers which offer courses in painting, photography and pottery. Camels and ponies are available for riding. There is a good dolmus service via Ovacik 6 times daily. KAYA VILLAGE A view of the Kaya Village during a misty morning