ULA

Although there is no definite information about when Ula was founded, it is estimated to have been established in the 6th century BC. The region where Ula is located was known as Caria in ancient times, except for the areas of Fethiye and Kınık. In the inscriptions found during excavations in Athens, the name “Ola” appears among the cities belonging to the Carians, who made an agreement with the Ionians in 1440 BC. The famous Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi noted in his writings that the name “Ola” was changed to “Ula” after it was conquered by Ulama Bey, one of the Menteşâ Beys. In the 17th century, Evliya Çelebi described Ula as being surrounded by vineyards and gardens, with grapes being sent to Egypt. The city is situated between the fertile lands of the Alicin and Laleli mountains.

Main Historical and Archaeological Destinations

Yedi Delik Cave

One of the significant sites that sheds light on Ula’s history, which dates back to ancient times, is the Yedi Delik and Thera Ancient City located in the city center. Yedi Delik is famous for its early period tomb remains, and this area includes a multi-storey structure encompassing 14 tombs. These caves, located to the east of Ula in the area where Alicin Mountain rises, belong to the Carians and are notable for their tomb chambers carved into high cliffs. According to ancient beliefs, it was thought that the dead needed protection from people upon their resurrection, so these tombs were carved into high cliffs. These structures are the damaged remains of caves from that era, with small chambers and stone beds inside.

Thera Ancient City

Thera, one of the ancient cities in the Caria region, is located to the west of Ula town center in the Okkataş area. In this ancient site, Carian-style rock tombs, temple remains, cisterns, and traces of walls can be observed.

Natural and Cultural Heritage

Ula Canyon – Kapız

Kapız, located to the south of the town, is within close proximity to the town center and can be accessed via the surrounding road. The entrance to the canyon, located 5 km from Ula in the village of Kızılağaç, can be chosen as the starting point. From here, it is possible to reach large and small waterfalls via a 10 km walking trail. This natural beauty, formed by geological fractures and the effects of water, offers a unique experience for nature hikers.

Ula Pond

Located just 2 km from the town center of Ula, the Ula Irrigation Reservoir is a site of natural beauty situated in a wooded area that largely meets the water needs of the Ula Plain. Around the integrated irrigation pond, there are areas for amateur fishing, two restaurants, and a picnic area with a viewing hill. Here, you can taste local dishes as well as seafoods.

Geyik Canyon

Geyik Canyon is a natural wonder that stretches over 20 km and reaches a depth of 600-650 meters. It extends from Karabörtlen Village to the Denizli provincial border. This hidden nature paradise, located in the village of Arıcılar, stands out with its rich vegetation and wildlife. The canyon serves as a passage point for deer, and the impressive stalactites and stalagmites in its caves attract many climbers.

Main Bays and Beaches

Gökova

The settlement takes its name from the Gökova Bay. On the hill to the north, there is the ancient city of Idyma (Idima) belonging to the Carian civilization.

Akyaka

Akyaka, which has been inhabited since ancient times, was a small fishing village hidden from sight until recent years. The recognition of Akyaka by a wider audience occurred with the tourism growth in the 1980s, which followed the small-scale tourism activities that began in the 1970s. As a result, Akyaka gained the appearance of a “touristic town.”

The unspoiled nature of Akyaka, which attracts many visitors from surrounding districts, provinces, and large cities, and its continuous summer breeze, has led these visitors to start building summer houses and tourist facilities in Akyaka. The old houses of Ula have been taken as examples and combined with modern architecture to create a unique synthesis specific to Akyaka. Akyaka offers many nature sports due to its advantageous location and geography. Depending on the season, it is possible to participate in these activities. The use of motorized water vehicles that could harm the rich wildlife is prohibited.

Recommended Activities

Kitesurfing

Rock Climbing

Cultural Arts Festival and Traditional Folkloric Bullfighting – September