Çameli (Yaylacık Mountain) has been operating as an official site for around ten years and hosted many successful competitions such as Pre-World Cup and Turkish Nationals. About 90 minutes’ drive from Ölüdeniz, the 2100 m mountain is accessible by road and offers well-kept launches in all wind directions.
It works great from February to November, with the best conditions for XC hounds in May to September. While the majority of big flights have been to the north, it is also possible to fly large triangles to the south or directly to Ölüdeniz and the coast. Çameli holds the titles for Turkish free distance record (356 km) and FAI triangle record (203 km).
During the flying season the thermals are usually active from sunrise to sunset. The best time to have a start window is before noon. This gives a huge advantage for early tasks in case of stormy weather forecast afternoon. In 2022, we had a 53 km task in which the winner made goal just before 13.00 (which is probably the earliest task finish of all times) and more than half of the participants were in goal before it gets unflyable. It is a magical venue for paragliding completions.
Average tasks made are about 70-80 km, yet 120+ km tasks are common too. Cloud base is generally 3000 m and more. In the middle of April, pilots occasionally reach 3500 m. From May to September most flights reach to 4500 m as ceiling.
Main winds are southerly in which tasks are defined as zigzags to the north. Out-and-return and FAI triangle type flights are easily done in light wind and having a goal in Çameli Valley is quite usual.
Landing out is no problem for pilots since the area has a great road networks and friendly local community who are keen on helping you out.
Yaylacik Mountain (36°58’49.12″N 29°18’50.78″E): 2130 ASL
Take-off to all directions
HOW TO GET THERE
By Plane:
Dalaman Airport is 108 km and Denizli Çardak Airport is 145 km. Both airports are about 2 hours drive.
By Bus:
There are scheduled buses from Fethiye Bus Station to Çameli and from Denizli Bus Station to Çameli. There are 5 daily buses between Fethiye-Çameli and Denizli-Çameli. It takes 1.30 hours for both.
By Car:
Rental car companies offer variety of options in both airports. For navigation, you can use Google Maps and ‘Çameli Taş Konaklar’ as destination.