St Nicholas Island

Located right off the coast of Oludeniz, St Nicholas Island remains a popular traveler pilgrimage, abounding with Byzantine ruins and picture-perfect sceneries. If you are on a gulet tour across the Mediterranean, a stop in this history-ladened stretch of land is inevitable. It is allegedly the original burial site for the legendary St. Nicholas, who inspired the story of Santa Claus. But beyond that, its historical significance rests upon the value of the five Greek churches scattered across the island. As you sail towards it, you will see the allure of the crescent-shaped bay that has drawn countless sailors in earlier times.

The five evocative church complexes are not the only archeological wonders of St. Nicholas Island. Around forty sanctuaries pepper the land among them, bringing 4th-century history to this day. Climb up to the island’s highest point for the crowning jewel, a church directly cut from the rock. A truly holy feeling sinks in at the site accompanied by exquisite views of the Mediterranean. Rock tombs, water cisterns, and several other ruins are a dime a dozen, cascading down from the hills. Some of them are also submerged, the traces of which can be followed all the way to the jetty. 

The island is not yet as crowded as other Turquoise Coast destinations. But, it sees its share of visitors during the busiest summer months. Around the anchoring points, there are fishing boats and restaurants on land, serving delicious local appetizers to customers. Grab a Turkish gozleme, enjoy the south coast’s infectious sun, and take a swim break in the sedative waters.