The Babadag mountain range rises out of the Fethiye Plain and stretches south 60km to the west end of the Patara Beach. The highest peak is known as Babadag (Father mountain) and towers some 1,967 Metres (6,450 ft) above sea level and dominates the skyline of Fethiye, Ovacik. Hisaronu and Oludeniz. The view from the peak is breathtaking.

The Babadag Mountain mountain is a popular launch site for paragliders and for walkers who like to bag a peak. However the only way to the top at the moment is by foot or by suitable vehicle via the precarious dirt tracks.

Now the local authorities are planning to open the peak up to everyone by installing a cable car. A delegation of officials including the Kaymakam Hasan Karakas will visit Germany, Austria and Switzerland this week to choose a suitable company to install and operate the cable car. The plans include not only the construction of the cable car infrastructure but also the construction of a restaurant and viewing areas near the summit. It is expected that the cable car could be operational within 2 years subject to contract.

A cable car that was built near Kemer recently now attracts some 250 passengers per day during the season. The local authorities expect similar passenger numbers when the cable car is operational as this will be one of the premier ‘trips’ for people visiting the area.