Özdere is a small Aegean coastal town in Izmir located near ancient settlements dating back to 5,000 B.C. In addition to its proximity to important historical landmarks, Özdere's long golden sandy beaches and crystal clear rocky inlets have generated a bustling tourism industry in the summer months. The seaside forests Kamelik Milli Park and Gümüldür Park are popular camping and picnic areas. Small coves nestled in the mountains, such as Ahmetbeyli, Koru, and Zindancık Coves, are favourites of locals and frequent visitors.
In addition to tourism, Özdere residents earn their living from agriculture, fishing, farming. This translates to fresh local produce, like their famous mandarin oranges, mouth-watering seafood, as well as traditional kebab and bread. With a climate typical of the Mediterranean, the town is hot in the summer months and warm and rainy in the winter. The closest aiport, Selcuk Efes Airport, is approximately a half an hour away by car.