📍 Location & Physical Features

The Beşparmak Mountains, known in antiquity as Latmos, are located on the border of Aydın and Muğla provinces in southwestern Turkey. They are situated about 25 km from Söke, a district of Aydın, and stretch along the eastern shore of Lake Bafa. The highest peak is Tekerlek Hill, reaching 1,353 meters above sea level.

🏞️ Nature, Flora & Fauna

• The mountain range is largely covered with kermes oak scrubland and Turkish red pine forests. Higher elevations also feature chestnut and stone pine trees.
• The region is home to many endemic species, including the rare "Latmos fumewort" (Corydalis varolaydinii), which exists only in this area.
• It also supports endangered species such as the black stork, and in the past, Anatolian leopards. Other animals include badgers, caracals, and a wide range of birds and reptiles.

🗿 History & Archaeology

• The mountains contain prehistoric cave paintings dating back to 6000–5000 BCE. More than 170 figures have been discovered, depicting scenes of family life, weddings, and festivities.
• During the Hellenistic period, the mountains were home to a cave sanctuary dedicated to the mountain god Endymion.
• In Byzantine times, the area became a center for monastic life, with monasteries, hermit cells, and cave dwellings carved into the rocks. The Yediler Monastery is one of the most notable landmarks along the hiking route.

🚶 Visiting & Hiking Information

• You can reach Gölyaka (Bucak) Village by minibus from Bafa town, and from there, start a hike to explore the historical and natural features of the mountain.
• The trail includes rock formations, caves, and stone pathways, with a 45-minute walk to the prehistoric cave paintings and another similar walk to Yediler Monastery.

🌍 Geology & Potential Threats

• The region is rich in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss, granite, and quartz, which have eroded over millions of years to form unique and dramatic rock shapes—making it feel like a geological open-air museum.
• However, ongoing mining activities (feldspar, quartz, marble, lignite, and even uranium) threaten the ecosystem and cultural heritage. Conservationists are campaigning to have the area designated as a National Park.

🎯 Why Visit?

• Natural and cultural richness: endemic plants, rare birds, prehistoric rock art, and Byzantine monasteries all in one place.
• Geological uniqueness: massive rock formations shaped over millions of years.
• Myth and history: explore sacred landscapes stretching from the Neolithic era to Byzantine times.

⚠️ Tips & Advice

• Bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection, a map or GPS-enabled device.
• Best time to visit: spring and early summer.
• Be cautious around mining areas — terrain conditions may change or become dangerous.

✅ Conclusion

The Beşparmak (Latmos) Mountains are one of Turkey’s richest regions in terms of nature, history, and geology. With their endemic flora, ancient rock art, and Byzantine monastic sites, they offer a truly unique experience for nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts. Protecting this area is vital for preserving its legacy.