Climb every Mountain
This feature is from reader Leslie Joy-Rhodes.
Wanna see the best view around Bodrum? Then come and climb the highest mountain! Located on the north-eastern part of Bodrum peninsular are two peaks, close in both proximity and height. Kara Dağ (Black Mountain) and Oyuklu Dağ (mountain with caves?) rise up to modest elevations of 609 and 690 metres. These offer not only panoramic views but an interesting and beautiful journey. Taking narrow trails through pine forests, it takes about two hours to reach the summit of Kara Dağ. As long as you are reasonably fit, these mountains are a feast for the senses, a sanctuary for the soul, and a hearty physical workout. Forget the gym – come and conquer a mountain instead, and enjoy the unspoilt beauty of this serene and protected part of the Bodrum peninsular. It’s recommended that you follow a guide on your first time up, since it’s quite easy to get lost.
Places of interest along the way include the remains of a Byzantine church; the ruins of a Lelegian settlement near the peak of KaraDağ, circa 500BC; and for a complete contrast, the village of Girel,
abandoned only 30 years ago (on the Oyuklu trail). The first resting point is under the shade of a huge bent oak next to a large traditional sarnıç (water cistern) where a cool breeze always blows. Local shepherds come here to water their stock and take rest. Opposite is an overgrown cemetery, with many old and unmarked headstones, indicating these hills were once more populated than they are now. The heady scents of wild herbs such as thyme, sage, oregano and lavender greet your nostrils as you climb. Nature sings her songs along the way - the birds, the bees, and the breeze through the trees. From the summit there are stunning views across the Aegean to the west and the Mediterranean to the south, dotted with Turkish and Greek islands.
What does it mean to climb a mountain, literally or metaphorically? It’s more than putting one foot in front of the other. What does it mean to come to the moment when we can see the world clearly in a 360 degree panorama? Thoreau speaks of the magic mountain, the religious ascent, the sacred summit. Climbing becomes the spiritual journey we all travel, dealing with those questions that call out to us, our need for meaning. And it is from the summit that we might glimpse the answers. The mountain itself is a symbol of power, wisdom, timelessness and stability – a tonic in these days of frenzy and insecurity.
Farilya Farm is the ideal place to start the trek. And a good place to leave friends or family who don’t share your mountain dream. Set in a peaceful and charming valley at the base of KaraDağ, it stables many happy horses under the care of hoca Aykut. Simple fare is available, served at teak tables with a stunning view of the imposing KaraDağ, poised like a lion above. Enjoy a sage tea from the mountains, or a cold beer, a barbecued meal, or delicious village breakfast.
Children can be led around the ménage on the very safe and sedate gelding Marco, and birthday parties (or any other celebration) can be catered for.
For those who prefer horse riding to hiking, take a one or two hour guided safari up into the clean cool air of the surrounding hillsides. With spectacular views, shady pine forests and happy horses, it’s an experience to be treasured. Beginners are welcome on safari, or lessons are available in the ménage. Or just snooze the day away in a hammock – this is a no pressure kinda place far from the madding crowd with only the sounds of nature. Open every day of the year.
Contact: Aykut, 0536 3888900, http://www.farilyafarm.com/
Location: On the main Gündoğan-Torba road, about 2km outside Gündoğan (map)
Farilya Farm Horseriding have been recommended by our readers - read the reviews and add your recommendation HERE!