Olympos and Çıralı: ruins, beach and the Chimaera flames
Two quiet hamlets south-west of Antalya where ruins sit in a pine forest and flames burn from the mountainside.
By the IONETO Antalya team · Published 8 November 2026
In short: Olympos and Çıralı are neighbouring hamlets about 80 km south-west of Antalya, a short way off the coast highway. Olympos has the ruins of an ancient city in a pine forest and bungalow stays; Çıralı has a long, quiet beach and the Chimaera (Yanartaş), natural gas flames burning from the rock. You can walk between the two along the beach.
Olympos: ruins in the forest
The ancient city of Olympos lies in a wooded valley that runs down to the sea, with temple remains and tombs among the trees. Olympos is also known for its bungalow and tree-house style guesthouses.
Çıralı: a quiet beach
Çıralı is calmer, with family guesthouses behind a long beach. It is one of the gentlest places on this coast to slow down for a few days.
The Chimaera flames
Above Çıralı, natural gas seeps from the rock and burns in small flames that have been alight since antiquity. The walk up from the car park takes a short climb on a stone path; many people go at dusk to see the flames glow. Bring a torch and good shoes.
Getting there and staying
The access roads from the highway are narrow and winding, so a rental car or transfer is easiest. There are few cash machines, so bring cash. Bungalow stays suit nature lovers; ask about mosquito protection and hot water. Compare stays on Antalya hotels & villas.
Combine it
Olympos is close to the Tahtalı cable car and a good base for the Suluada trip from Adrasan. More ideas in things to do in Antalya and Antalya to Kaş.
Quick answers
How far is Olympos from Antalya?
About 80 km south-west, a short way off the coast highway.
What is the Chimaera?
Natural gas flames burning from the rock above Çıralı, known since antiquity.
Can you walk between Olympos and Çıralı?
Yes, along the beach.
Do I need cash?
Yes, there are few cash machines.
Sources
Illustrative images. Mutlu insan dünyayı aydınlatır: a happy person lights up the world.