Patara is famous for its wonderful beach which is one of the Mediterranean's best. There are also the remains of ancient Patara – an important Lycian city and the birth-place of St Nicholas, a 4th century bishop whose habit of secretly helping poor families spawned the myth of Santa Claus. Wander round the amphitheatre and then climb to the top of the hill behind for a great view.
If you're feeling adventurous horse riding or canoeing trips down the Xanthos river, which meets the sea half way along the beach, are on offer locally.
There are small hotels and restaurants 3 km inland from the beach at the small resort of Gelemis.
Getting There
There are regular dolmus from Fethiye, Kas and Kalkan in summer