Aerial view of colorful boats in the Mediterranean Sea in Ölüdeniz, Turkey

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A beach of many colours. Ölüdeniz, Turkey

Whether you love snorkelling, scuba-diving, swimming, paragliding, or simply soaking up some sun, Ölüdeniz on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast will fit the bill. The village and beach resort are named for the Blue Lagoon that’s set off from the ocean by a long sandbar. (The literal translation of Ölüdeniz is ‘Dead Sea,’ reflecting the calm water, but for marketing purposes, the gorgeous colour is more complimentary.) Much of the area is protected inside a national park, and the Ölüdeniz beach proudly holds the Blue Flag certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education, which recognizes high environmental and quality standards.

When you’re all beached out, head for the hills. Ölüdeniz is one of the best paragliding spots in the world, so launch yourself from the impressive Mount Babadağ—just 4.8 kilometres from the seaside—and enjoy spectacular views of the lagoon, the beach, the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, and the scenic hills and valleys fading into the distance. Once you’re back on solid ground, take a trip to the marvelous Butterfly Valley—it’s easy, just jump on a taxi boat or drive the lovely local road that hugs the coast. Hopefully you’ll spot a variety of butterflies as you hike through the natural canyon. Whether you go by air, land, or sea, there are so many ways to celebrate nature and diversity in this gorgeous part of the world.