Ruins & Relaxation: My Solo Escape to Olympos

#mytraveldiary I just wandered through the mystical, tree-shaded ruins of Ancient Olympos—a once-great Lycian city where Roman temples, Byzantine churches, and wild nature coexist. With its nearby beach, treehouse hostels, and legendary Chimaera flames, Olympos was the perfect solo trip for history, adventure, and laid-back charm. What Makes Olympos Special? · Ancient City in Nature: Ruins scattered along a river valley, tangled in vines and trees—feels like discovering a lost world. · Chimaera (Yanartaş): Eternal natural flames burning from the mountainside—mythical and mesmerizing, especially at night. · Olympos Beach: A long, sandy stretch where the Lycian ruins meet the Mediterranean Sea. · Treehouse Culture: Famous for its eco-friendly bungalows and hostels that attract backpackers and solo travelers. Why Olympos for Solo Travelers? · Social & Safe: Treehouse lodges are perfect for meeting other travelers in a relaxed setting. · Adventure & Chill: Hike, swim, explore ruins, or just read in a hammock—your pace, your choice. · Affordable: Budget-friendly accommodation, meals, and activities. · Magical Vibe: Fire, forests, ruins, and sea—Olympos feels otherworldly. --- My Solo Itinerary Day 1: Ruins & Beach Time · Morning: Explored the Ancient Olympos ruins—followed the river path past Roman baths, a theater, and sarcophagi. · Afternoon: Walked to Olympos Beach—swam, sunbathed, and napped under umbrellas. · Evening: Joined a group hike to Chimaera (Yanartaş) at dusk—watched the flames glow against the dark sky. Day 2: Adventure & Relaxation · Morning: Tried canyoning or rock climbing in the surrounding valleys (group tours available). · Afternoon: Rented a kayak or paddleboard along the coast, or simply relaxed at a beachfront café. · Evening: Enjoyed a communal dinner at my treehouse lodge—grilled fish, meze, and great conversation. Day 3: Lycian Way & Departure · Took a short hike on the Lycian Way—breathtaking coastal views. · Visited the nearby Cıralı Beach (less crowded, turtle nesting site). · Headed out by bus to Kaş, Antalya, or Fethiye. --- Solo Traveler Tips 1. Stay in a Treehouse Lodge: Kadir’s, Bayram’s, or Orange—all are social and fun. 2. Wear Sturdy Sandals or Sneakers: The ruin paths are uneven and rocky. 3. Bring a Headlamp: Essential for the night hike to Chimaera. 4. Cash Only: Most places in Olympos don’t accept cards. --- Final Thoughts Olympos was a dream—a place where I could be as active or relaxed as I wanted, where ancient stones held stories, and where nights were lit by eternal fire. For solo travelers looking for magic and connection, Olympos delivers. #solotravel #olympos #chimaera #treehouselife #lyciancoast