Olympos is famous for one quirky, much-loved style of accommodation: the treehouse camp. Tucked into the pine forest and orange groves of the Olympos valley, just behind the ancient ruins and the beach, these wooden cabins and raised bungalows have been a backpacker rite of passage for decades. Today the scene has grown up a little, with options ranging from basic and budget to surprisingly comfortable. Here is an honest local’s guide to staying in an Olympos treehouse.
🔵 WHAT A TREEHOUSE STAY IS REALLY LIKE
Forget the Pinterest fantasy of a luxury cabin in the canopy. Most “treehouses” here are simple raised wooden huts or bungalows set among the trees, run by family camps. The classic experience includes a bed in a wooden cabin, shared or basic private bathrooms, breakfast and dinner usually included, and a sociable communal area where travellers gather in the evening. It is rustic, friendly, and great value, with the magic coming from the forest setting and the relaxed atmosphere rather than the thread count.
🔵 WHO IT SUITS (AND WHO IT DOESN’T)
Treehouse camps are perfect for solo travellers, couples, and young backpackers who want atmosphere, easy company, and a budget-friendly base near the ruins and beach. They are less ideal if you need air conditioning in every room, a pool, reliable Wi-Fi, or hotel-level comfort. Families and travellers wanting more comfort should look for the camps and small lodges offering upgraded private bungalows, or consider a pension in neighbouring Çıralı instead.
🔵 OLYMPOS OR ÇIRALI?
This is the key decision. The Olympos valley is younger, livelier, and treehouse-focused, with a backpacker energy and some summer nightlife. Çıralı, sharing the same beach just to the north, is quieter and family-oriented, with pensions and eco-lodges. Choose Olympos for the social, rustic camp experience and Çıralı for calm.
🔵 WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BOOKING
Check whether the rate is half-board (breakfast and dinner included is the norm and great value), whether the cabin is a true private room or a shared dorm, and whether there is air conditioning, which matters a lot in July and August. Read recent reviews for cleanliness and noise, as summer nights can be lively. Bring cash, a power bank, and insect repellent, and pack light, since paths between cabins are unpaved.
🔵 FAQ INTRO
Quick answers about Olympos treehouse stays.
Are Olympos treehouses actually in trees?
Mostly no. They are simple wooden cabins and raised bungalows set among pine forest and orange groves, rather than huts built high in the branches. The charm is the forest setting and laid-back vibe.
Is breakfast and dinner included?
Usually yes. Most camps include breakfast and an evening meal in the price, which is part of what makes them such good value and so sociable.
Are treehouse stays good for families?
Some camps offer comfortable private bungalows that work for families, but the basic dorm-style cabins suit backpackers better. Families wanting more comfort often prefer a pension in nearby Çıralı.
Do Olympos treehouses have air conditioning?
It varies. Basic cabins often do not, while upgraded private bungalows may. If you are visiting in the summer heat, check this carefully before you book.