Villa Karatavuk: Woodland Walks

There are many beautiful walks in the woods from the very doorstep of the Villa Karavatuk. The wooded slopes above the villa provide plenty of shade to keep cool as you stroll through the trees, perhaps looking for the ideal picnic spot.

This is also the area where a famous local delicacy can be found - the tasty Morel mushroom. The fame of the Morel attracts people from far and wide to the annual Mushroom Festival each Spring in Uzumlu, for three days of music, dancing, and of course - mushrooms!

Exploring the rock tombs appeals to the Indiana Jones in us all. Unfortunately, the treasures are long since gone, but the rich imagination of a small boy was some compensation. Many other hidden riches can be found in the woodland glades if you keep your eyes open. Patches of wild orchids can be found in sheltered spots, but do watch where you put your feet - it's very easy to damage these rare beauties.

Several ancient rock tombs can be found scattered around the hillside, just a few minutes walk from the villa. They date from the Lycian period, and were carved from the local rock perhaps 2500 years ago or more.

Close by is the famous Hector tomb, elaborately carved to show the tomb's owner in life at work and at play. As you will see from the carving, his work consisted mostly of merciless slaughter of barbarians from horseback.

Less pretty than orchids, but perhaps more entertaining as they search for a quiet sunny spot for lunch, are the local tortoises, which are quite common in this part of the world.

Only about 20-30 mins walk from the villa is a cragtop with a magnificent panoramic view across the whole Uzumlu valley to the mountains beyond. This is ideal place for a picnic, with one of the best views in the whole area. Just head for the large Turkish flag which flies from this spot. And if you are feeling really energetic, you can continue up the slope to visit the ancient ruined city of Cadianda, transporting you back to a time over 2000 years ago.