Yayla Evi Reviews
“Amazing traditional Turkish farmhouse”
Reviewed 3 weeks ago for a stay in July 2016
***** 5 STAR REVIEW
This was our second stay at Yayla Evi, a well restored traditional Turkish Farmhouse set in unspoiled countryside and pine forest. We have been to Turkey over 12 times and have visited many places, including several of the popular tourist resorts. We have watched with dismay the speed of commercialisation and the loss of real character and charm. If you want to see the real Turkey, in a traditional Turkish farmhouse and truly unwind in stunning surroundings, this is definitely for you.
We love it.
Set in mountains about a fifteen-minute drive above the ancient ruined city of Tlos, this farmhouse is a real gem. A car is essential, but the nearby Turkish town of Kemer is within easy driving distance and Fethiye is about 45 minutes away.
There are local restaurants within easy reach, many catering for Turkish tourists. There is a village shop which we used for essential supplies and the supermarkets in Fethiye and Kemer are within driving distance. I particularly enjoyed trying out my limited Turkish when buying food and this was met enthusiastically by the locals trying out their English - really great fun. The villagers are totally welcoming and don’t be surprised if the local farmer's wife turns up and presents you with locally grown vegetables.
For days out, the Lycian city of Xanthos, Saklikent and its gorge, Patara beach and ruins and the ruined city of Pinara are also within easy reach, as are Kalkan and slightly further afield, Kas. However, for much of the time we just relaxed by the very good pool, went for walks through the forest and barbecued our evening meals outside, with an ice cold beer or glass of wine. At night the sky is a marvel to behold as there is no light pollution (something we just don’t get in the UK) and many nights found us simply star gazing, or admiring the beautiful scenery in the silver moonlight.
If you want to get away from the tourist traps and escape from the pressures of work and the demands of the modern world Yayla Evi is right up your street. We love it so much we have already booked to stay again this year.
Stephen and Rachel the owners have a property nearby and are always on hand if help is needed, kind and thoughtful, they are never intrusive and have a wealth of local information to make your stay truly amazing. The house is lovely and it is well appointed to provide the perfect self-catering holiday. The first year we stayed, for some inexplicable reason I welled up when it was time to leave. To sum up, the cottage and surrounding countryside is a find in a million, wonderful in every respect and we will continue to visit year after year.
Would I recommend this holiday rental to my best friend? Yes.