A Historical Balcony Overlooking the Mediterranean
Located in the north of the Serik district on the rugged slopes of the Taurus Mountains, Ovacık Plateau is not only a place to cool off but also an ancient defensive center. Situated at an altitude of approximately 1050 meters, the plateau is renowned for its bird's-eye dominance over the sea. Its most striking feature is being one of the points where the sharp transition from maquis vegetation to massive pine and cedar forests is most visible. The silence of the plateau is broken only by the whistling of the wind and the bells of the local goat herds.
The Intersection of History and Nature
The ruins of Ovacık Castle, located at the summit of the plateau, prove that this was a strategic point used to observe the coastline in antiquity. Watching the Mediterranean from these castle ruins, which date from the Hellenistic period to the Byzantine era, gives visitors the feeling that time has stood still. The plateau, with its fresh air and untainted water sources, is an indispensable summer refuge for the local people.
Practical Information
- Location: North of Serik, accessed via the villages of Etler and Akbaş.
- Transportation: Approximately 35 km from Serik center. Careful driving is required as some parts of the road are winding and stabilized.
- Activities: Visiting the ancient castle, nature hiking, landscape photography, and camping.
- Food: Local village breakfast and organic fruits grown in the region.
- Best Time: The period from late May to late September is the most refreshing time to visit.
