The Thrill of the Ride

The sun was barely peeking over the horizon as I found myself in the heart of Fethiye, ready to embark on an off-road adventure that promised to be nothing short of exhilarating. As a former extreme sports athlete, I’ve had my fair share of adrenaline-pumping experiences, but the allure of exploring the Kayaköy ruins on a buggy was too tempting to resist. The day began with a quick briefing on how to handle the buggy, a beast of a machine that seemed to purr with anticipation. The guides were friendly and welcoming, and I was thrilled to learn that our group was small, just me and a few fellow thrill-seekers, along with the guide’s sister-in-law and her daughter to make up a convoy.

The initial test drive on Turkey’s largest buggy track was a heart-racing experience. The buggy roared to life beneath me, and I could feel the power of the engine as we navigated the off-road course. The guides warned us that we would get dirty, and they weren’t kidding. Goggles were provided, and face covers were available for purchase. I highly recommend grabbing one unless you fancy a mouthful of dirt—though I must admit, the grin plastered on my face was worth it.

Into the Wild

With the test drive complete, we set off into the lush pine forests, the buggies kicking up clouds of dust as we tore through the trails. The forest tracks were a thrilling challenge, with twists and turns that kept my heart pounding. Every so often, we would stop to take in the breathtaking views, the kind that make you feel alive and grateful for the moment. The camaraderie among the group was palpable, each of us sharing the same sense of adventure and excitement.

Our journey led us to the abandoned Greek village of Kayaköy, a place steeped in history and mystery. Walking through the ruins, I could almost hear the whispers of the past, the stories of those who once called this place home. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the transient nature of life and the enduring beauty of history.

A Refreshing Escape

After exploring the ruins, we made our way to Gemiler Bay, a stunning beach nestled across from St. Nicholas Island. The crystal-clear waters were a welcome sight, and we eagerly plunged in, washing away the dust and grime from our off-road adventure. The hour-long swim was refreshing, a perfect interlude before we hit the trails once more.

As we made our way back, the guide’s wife, who had been riding in the front buggy, captured action shots of us in the throes of adventure. These photographs were available for purchase, a wonderful memento of an unforgettable day. Throughout the trip, she also ensured we stayed hydrated, providing bottles of water that were included in the price.

This family-run business exuded warmth and hospitality, making us feel like part of their extended family. There was no pressure to buy extras, and everything was fairly priced, a refreshing change from the usual tourist traps. As we returned to the starting point, covered in dirt but grinning from ear to ear, I knew this was an experience I would cherish forever. The thrill of the ride, the beauty of the landscape, and the warmth of the people made this off-road adventure one for the books. I can’t wait to return for a full-day tour and dive even deeper into the heart of Fethiye’s wild beauty.