Kayaköy Ghost Village (2025): History, Ruins & Visiting Tips

Kayaköy is a hauntingly beautiful abandoned village near Fethiye, steeped in history and mystery. Once a thriving community, its empty stone houses and churches tell stories of the past. In this 2025 guide, we explore Kayaköy’s history, what to see among the ruins, and practical tips on how to visit this unique ghost village safely and respectfully.

In this 2025 travel guide, you’ll discover the history of Kayaköy, what to see, how to get there, and why it’s a must-visit spot for travelers seeking authenticity, reflection, and timeless beauty.

🏚️ What is Kayaköy?

Kayaköy (ancient Karmylassos) is a deserted village located about 8 km south of Fethiye, made up of over 500 stone houses and several churches. It was once home to a thriving Greek Orthodox population until the population exchange between Greece and Türkiye in 1923.

• Founded: ~11th century
• Population before abandonment: ~6,000
• Current residents: < 100 (around outskirts)
• Declared: Cultural heritage site

Today, Kayaköy is both a symbol of Türkiye’s multicultural past and a peaceful hiking spot.

📜 A Brief History of Kayaköy

📌 Key Events:

• 11th century: Settled by Greeks in the Lycian region
• 19th century: Prosperous community with churches, schools, and artisan shops
• 1923: Entire population relocated to Greece due to the Treaty of Lausanne
• Post-1923: Turkish Muslims from Greece were resettled here but abandoned the village due to unsuitable farming conditions
• Today: Preserved as a “ghost village” and open to the public

🕯️ Many visitors report a strange calm — even a mystical feel — while walking among the ruins.

🎟️ Entrance & Opening Hours (2025)

• 💸 Entrance Fee: ~50 TL
• 🕒 Hours: 08:00 – 20:00 (April–October)
• 🎫 Tickets sold at the gate
• 🧭 Guided tours available but optional

Note: No entrance fee if you’re only walking around the outer trails.

🧭 What to See in Kayaköy

🏚️ 1. Ruined Stone Houses

Most are roofless, with arched windows, fireplaces, and beautiful mountain views.

• Be careful while climbing
• Many still have plaster wall markings
• Amazing photo backdrops

⛪ 2. Church of Panagia Pyrgiotissa

A small but beautifully crafted Orthodox church with stone altars and faded frescoes.

• Interior partially accessible
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Brings insight into pre-1923 life

⛪ 3. Church of Taxiarchis

Larger and more intact than Panagia, this church sits near the top of the hill and offers panoramic views.

• Mosaic flooring and vaulted ceilings
• Best spot for sunset over the ruins

🧗 4. Hike to Gemiler Bay

There’s a marked trail from Kayaköy to the coast — around 5.5 km one way.

• Takes ~1.5–2 hours
• Passes olive groves and stone terraces
• Ends at Gemiler Beach (swim + boat ride opportunity)

See also: Best Beaches in Fethiye

🍽️ Where to Eat in Kayaköy

1. Levissi Garden Restaurant – Traditional Turkish food in a lush garden
2. Izela Restaurant – Modern cuisine, popular with expats
3. Misafir Evi – Small guesthouse serving organic meals (also a lodging option)

💡 Prices are moderate. Many use local produce and traditional cooking techniques.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Kayaköy

Looking for peace, silence, and nature? Stay overnight in a village guesthouse.

• Villa Rhapsody – Charming, rustic, highly rated
• Misafir Evi – Eco-conscious, ideal for couples
• Doga Apartments – Quiet and nature-surrounded

Average nightly cost: ~1500–3000 TL
Perfect for: Writers, digital detoxers, honeymooners

Related: Where to Stay in Fethiye (2025 Guide)

🚍 How to Get to Kayaköy from Fethiye

🚌 By Dolmuş (Minibus):

• Leaves from Fethiye central mosque or Otogar
• Runs every 30 mins in summer (~20 TL)
• Drops you near village entrance

🚗 By Car:

• ~15 minutes from Fethiye town
• Use the Kayaköy road from Hisarönü
• Free parking available

🚶 By Hike:

• Trail from Ölüdeniz via Ovacık/Hisarönü
• Takes ~2.5 hours
• Amazing views, especially in early morning

📸 Photography Tips

• Go early morning or golden hour
• Bring wide-angle lens for interiors
• Wear light-colored clothes for contrast
• Be respectful — no climbing on church walls or ruins

🧠 Insider Tips for Visiting

• 🥾 Wear sneakers or hiking sandals
• 🧴 Sunscreen is a must — little shade
• 💧 Bring water — only a few shops inside village
• 🎧 Visit with an audio guide app if you prefer solo exploration
• 📚 Read about the 1923 population exchange before you go — it adds deep context

🧭 Sample Itinerary (Half-Day)