Looking to escape the hustle of Türkiye’s sun-soaked Mediterranean coast? Just ten minutes offshore lies a hidden gem: Sovalye Island. Also known as Knight Island, this serene, car-free haven blends timeless history with untouched natural beauty. It’s a place where luxury moves at a slower pace—where ancient ruins rest beside turquoise waters, pine-scented paths lead to quiet coves, and the crowds feel a world away. Sovalye offers a rare kind of seclusion and authenticity, perfect for those who crave peace without compromising comfort.
Whether you're planning a day trip or an extended, peaceful retreat, this guide provides everything you need to know about visiting one of the most enchanting places to visit in Fethiye.
Sovalye Island (Şövalye Adası in Turkish, meaning Knight Island) is perfectly situated in the Gulf of Fethiye, a stunning, deep blue bay on the southwest coast of Türkiye. It lies just a stone's throw from the mainland, set almost directly opposite Çalış Beach and only a short, scenic boat ride from the heart of Fethiye’s bustling harbour.
Geographically, this narrow, elongated island acts as a natural breakwater, almost sealing off the entrance to the Gulf of Telmessos and creating a sheltered harbour for Fethiye. As the largest and most striking of the nearby island cluster, it boasts sweeping, uninterrupted views of both the Fethiye coastline and the open sea. Thanks to its prime location, Sovalye Island is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of the region.
Yes, Sovalye Island is definitely part of Türkiye.
Sovalye Island falls within the administrative boundaries of Muğla Province, under the district of Fethiye. Its historical name, Knight Island, harks back to the Middle Ages when it served as a strategic military outpost for the Knights of Rhodes (Knights Hospitaller), who defended the ancient port of Telmessos—now Fethiye—from seaborne attacks. Though steeped in this storied past, the island has always been part of the region that makes up modern-day Türkiye. Today, Sovalye is the only inhabited island in the Fethiye Bay, home to a small, close-knit community, with a scattering of boutique hotels and private villas offering a peaceful retreat in a truly unique setting.
Generally speaking, there is no entrance fee to Sovalye Island itself, as it is a residential area and a public space.
However, visitors should be aware of a few related costs:
For day visitors, the experience is largely free once you’ve covered the cost of the short boat ride and any optional rentals, such as sunbeds or umbrellas. You’re free to wander, swim, and explore at your own pace, making it an affordable and peaceful escape from the mainland.
Reaching Sovalye Island is an effortless and scenic adventure, distinct from traveling to a mainland destination. The most important thing to keep in mind is that Sovalye Island is completely car-free—no vehicles are allowed—which means the only way to get there is by boat or water taxi. This simple fact is key to what keeps the island so peaceful and untouched. The journey itself is part of the experience, taking just 5 to 10 minutes across the calm, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Fethiye. It’s a short trip, but one that immediately sets the tone for the island’s quiet, secluded charm. If you're staying at one of the luxury accommodations on Sovalye Island, Fethiye, confirm with them, as they often include a complimentary boat transfer service.
Getting the right directions to Sovalye Island requires you to know the mainland departure points. You have two main options, both involving a short, pleasant boat ride:
The short crossing is usually calm, providing stunning first glimpses of the island’s lush greenery and the beautiful Fethiye coastline.
Absolutely, swimming on Sovalye Island is a major draw. The waters around the island are renowned for their crystal-clear, calm, and vibrant turquoise hues—ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving adventures.
Unlike the larger, sweeping beaches of the mainland (like Çalış), Sovalye Island features a mix of smaller, secluded coves and dedicated swimming platforms.
The absence of car traffic also ensures the air and environment remain exceptionally clean, contributing to the pristine quality of the water around Sovalye Island, Fethiye.
For visitors seeking a comprehensive resort experience while keeping Sovalye Island accessible as one of their must-see places to visit in Fethiye, the surrounding area offers world-class accommodations.
Club & Hotel Letoonia is a highly recommended choice in the immediate vicinity. Located on a private peninsula close to Fethiye, it provides a sprawling, all-inclusive, and luxurious base for your holiday. Though it’s on the mainland, its private jetty and extensive facilities—including exclusive beaches, multiple pools, and a wide range of restaurants—guarantee you have everything you need for a perfect day out.
Staying at a large resort like Club & Hotel Letoonia means you are just a quick water taxi ride away from the tranquility of Sovalye Island, Fethiye, offering a perfect contrast between the energetic resort life and the sleepy, historical island charm. With easy access just a short boat ride away, you can enjoy the island as your own exclusive, car-free retreat whenever you need a peaceful change of pace.
The experience of visiting Sovalye Island is truly one of the most distinctive in Türkiye. It’s a peaceful slice of history, beautifully preserved away from the mainland’s fast pace, promising a truly memorable and tranquil escape. Have you decided if you’re planning a quick day trip or considering staying overnight to soak in the island’s peaceful charm?
