Are you looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery, rich history, and diverse culture? Do you want to explore one of the most beautiful and ancient trails in the world? If yes, then you should definitely consider hiking the Lycian Way, Turkey's epic trail that spans over 500 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast.
The Lycian Way is a long-distance hiking trail that follows the footsteps of the ancient Lycians, a mysterious civilization that flourished in southwestern Turkey from the 15th century BC to the 6th century AD. The trail passes through spectacular landscapes, such as turquoise lagoons, rocky mountains, pine forests, and sandy beaches, as well as fascinating historical and cultural attractions, such as ancient cities, tombs, theaters, and temples.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to hiking the best bits of the Lycian Way in 10 days, covering the most scenic, historical, and cultural highlights of the trail. We will also give you some practical information, such as the best time to hike, the equipment and preparation needed, the path markings and navigation tips, the emergency numbers and safety precautions, and the costs and budget of hiking the trail. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will find something to suit your interests and preferences on the Lycian Way.
Overview and Map of the Lycian Way
The Lycian Way is one of the longest and most challenging hiking trails in the world, with a total length of 540 kilometers and an elevation gain of 15,000 meters. The trail starts from Fethiye, a lively coastal town in the province of Muğla, and ends at Antalya, a modern city and a popular tourist destination in the province of Antalya. The trail can be hiked in either direction, but most hikers prefer to start from Fethiye and head eastwards, as this way they can enjoy the best views of the sun and the sea.
The trail is divided into four sections, each with a different character and difficulty level. The first section, from Fethiye to Kalkan, is the easiest and the most popular, as it passes through some of the most beautiful beaches and lagoons in Turkey, such as Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, and Patara. The second section, from Kalkan to Demre, is the most historical and cultural, as it passes through some of the most impressive ancient sites and ruins in Turkey, such as Xanthos, Letoon, and Myra. The third section, from Demre to Finike, is the most remote and rugged, as it passes through some of the most wild and untouched areas in Turkey, such as the Gelidonya Lighthouse and the Olympos Mountains. The fourth section, from Finike to Antalya, is the most varied and diverse, as it passes through some of the most contrasting landscapes and attractions in Turkey, such as the Arykanda ruins, the Çıralı beach, and the Termessos city.
The best time to hike the Lycian Way is from March to May or from September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant, the flowers are blooming, and the crowds are low. The summer months, from June to August, are too hot and humid, and the winter months, from December to February, are too cold and rainy. However, some parts of the trail, especially the coastal ones, can be hiked all year round, as long as you are prepared for the conditions.
Detailed Itinerary of the Best Bits of the Lycian Way
Hiking the whole Lycian Way can take up to six weeks, depending on your pace and preferences. However, if you don't have that much time, or if you want to focus on the best bits of the trail, you can hike it in 10 days, covering about 200 kilometers and 10 stages. This itinerary will allow you to see the most scenic, historical, and cultural highlights of the trail, while also giving you some flexibility and options to customize your trip.
Here is a detailed itinerary of hiking the best bits of the Lycian Way in 10 days:
Day 1: Fethiye to Ölüdeniz
- Distance: 15 kilometers
- Duration: 4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start: Fethiye
- End: Ölüdeniz
- How to get there: You can fly to Dalaman Airport, which is about 50 kilometers from Fethiye, and take a bus or a taxi to the town center. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, or Antalya to Fethiye, which takes about 10 to 12 hours.
- Main attractions: Fethiye is a lively and charming town, with a picturesque harbor, a colorful bazaar, and a historical castle. You can explore the town, visit the Lycian rock tombs, and enjoy the local cuisine. From Fethiye, you can start the Lycian Way trail, following the red and white stripes that mark the path. The trail will take you through pine forests, olive groves, and rural villages, until you reach Ölüdeniz, one of the most beautiful and famous beaches in Turkey. Ölüdeniz is a stunning lagoon, with turquoise waters, white sands, and green hills. You can swim, sunbathe, or try paragliding from the nearby Babadağ Mountain, which offers spectacular views of the coast.
- Accommodation: Ölüdeniz has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from campsites and hostels to guesthouses and hotels. You can also find many restaurants, bars, and shops in the town.
- Personal tips: If you want to avoid the crowds and the noise, you can stay at the nearby Faralya village, which is quieter and more peaceful. You can also hike to the Butterfly Valley, a secluded and scenic cove, where you can camp or stay at a simple guesthouse.
Day 2: Ölüdeniz to Faralya
- Distance: 14 kilometers
- Duration: 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start: Ölüdeniz
- End: Faralya
- How to get there: You can start from Ölüdeniz, or take a dolmuş (a shared minibus) from Fethiye to Ölüdeniz, which takes about 30 minutes and costs 5 TL (Turkish Lira).
- Main attractions: From Ölüdeniz, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you uphill to the village of Kirme, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lagoon and the sea. The trail will then take you downhill to the Butterfly Valley, a secluded and scenic cove, where you can see hundreds of butterflies in the spring and summer. The trail will then take you uphill again to the village of Faralya, where you can admire the views of the valley and the cliffs. Faralya is a small and quiet village, with a few guesthouses and restaurants. You can relax, enjoy the nature, and watch the sunset from the village.
- Accommodation: Faralya has a few accommodation options, such as campsites, guesthouses, and hotels. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to visit the Butterfly Valley, you can either hike down from the trail, which is steep and slippery, or take a boat from Ölüdeniz, which costs 20 TL and takes 20 minutes. The valley has a small entrance fee of 10 TL, and you can camp or stay at a simple guesthouse there. However, be aware that the valley is very popular among hippies and nudists, so you may encounter some alternative lifestyles and behaviors.
Day 3: Faralya to Kabak
- Distance: 7 kilometers
- Duration: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Start: Faralya
- End: Kabak
- How to get there: You can start from Faralya, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Faralya, which takes about an hour and costs 10 TL.
- Main attractions: From Faralya, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you through pine forests, rocky slopes, and wild flowers, until you reach Kabak, another beautiful and secluded beach. Kabak is a tranquil and serene place, with crystal clear waters, golden sands, and green hills. You can swim, relax, or hike to the nearby waterfalls and caves. Kabak is also a popular spot for yoga and meditation, as it has a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
- Accommodation: Kabak has a few accommodation options, such as campsites, bungalows, and tree houses. You can also find some restaurants and cafes in the beach.
- Personal tips: If you want to avoid the hassle of hiking down and up to the beach, you can take a dolmuş from Faralya to Kabak, which costs 5 TL and takes 15 minutes. The dolmuş will drop you off at the top of the valley, and you will have to walk down to the beach, which takes about 20 minutes. To get back to the trail, you will have to walk up to the road, which takes about 40 minutes.
- Personal tips: If you want to experience the nightlife of Kabak, you can join the parties and concerts that are organized at some of the campsites and bungalows, especially on the weekends. However, if you prefer a quieter and more relaxing stay, you can choose a more secluded and peaceful accommodation option.
Day 4: Kabak to Alınca
- Distance: 16 kilometers
- Duration: 6 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Start: Kabak
- End: Alınca
- How to get there: You can start from Kabak, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Kabak, which takes about an hour and a half and costs 15 TL.
- Main attractions: From Kabak, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you uphill to the village of Alınca, one of the highest and most remote villages on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the trail, such as the Sidyma ruins, the Pydnai ruins, and the Gavurağılı pass. The Sidyma ruins are the remains of an ancient Lycian city, with a necropolis, a theater, and a temple. The Pydnai ruins are the remains of an ancient Roman fort, with a watchtower, a cistern, and a wall. The Gavurağılı pass is the highest point of the trail, at 1,800 meters, offering breathtaking views of the coast and the mountains. Alınca is a small and traditional village, with stone houses, a mosque, and a fountain. You can enjoy the hospitality and the cuisine of the villagers, and admire the views of the Yediburunlar (Seven Capes) peninsula.
- Accommodation: Alınca has a few accommodation options, such as guesthouses and homestays. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to shorten the hike, you can skip the Sidyma and Pydnai ruins, and take a shortcut from the village of Bel to the Gavurağılı pass, which will save you about 2 hours and 4 kilometers. However, if you want to see the ruins, you will need to follow the trail signs carefully, as they are not very clear and easy to miss.
Day 5: Alınca to Gey
- Distance: 12 kilometers
- Duration: 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start: Alınca
- End: Gey
- How to get there: You can start from Alınca, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Alınca, which takes about two hours and costs 20 TL.
- Main attractions: From Alınca, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you downhill to the village of Gey, one of the most picturesque and friendly villages on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most scenic and diverse sections of the trail, such as the Yediburunlar (Seven Capes) peninsula, the Boğaziçi valley, and the Belceğiz beach. The Yediburunlar peninsula is a stunning stretch of coastline, with seven rocky capes, each with a different shape and color. The Boğaziçi valley is a lush and fertile valley, with olive trees, fruit orchards, and vegetable gardens. The Belceğiz beach is a long and sandy beach, with clear waters and a view of the Kekova island. Gey is a small and charming village, with stone houses, a mosque, and a school. You can mingle with the locals, taste the organic products, and learn about the village life.
- Accommodation: Gey has a few accommodation options, such as guesthouses and homestays. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to explore the Kekova island, you can take a boat from the Belceğiz beach, which costs 50 TL and takes an hour. The island is famous for its sunken city, which was submerged by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. You can see the remains of the city, such as houses, stairs, and walls, under the water. You can also visit the Simena castle, which is located on a hilltop on the island, and offers panoramic views of the bay.
Day 6: Gey to Bel
- Distance: 12 kilometers
- Duration: 4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start: Gey
- End: Bel
- How to get there: You can start from Gey, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Gey, which takes about two and a half hours and costs 25 TL.
- Main attractions: From Gey, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you uphill to the village of Bel, one of the oldest and most authentic villages on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most rural and traditional sections of the trail, such as the Akbel plateau, the Dodurga village, and the İnceğiz cave. The Akbel plateau is a high and flat area, with grazing sheep, goats, and cows, and a view of the Kekova island. The Dodurga village is a small and simple village, with mud-brick houses, a mosque, and a fountain. The İnceğiz cave is a large and impressive cave, with stalactites, stalagmites, and a stream. Bel is a small and ancient village, with stone houses, a mosque, and a school. You can experience the hospitality and the culture of the villagers, and learn about their history and traditions.
- Accommodation: Bel has a few accommodation options, such as guesthouses and homestays. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to learn more about the Lycian culture and history, you can visit the nearby Patara, which is one of the most important and well-preserved ancient cities in Turkey. Patara was the capital of the Lycian League, the first democratic federation in history, and the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, the original Santa Claus. You can see the remains of the city, such as the parliament building, the theater, the temple, and the lighthouse. You can also enjoy the Patara beach, which is the longest and the most pristine beach in Turkey, and a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead turtles.
Day 7: Bel to Gavurağılı
- Distance: 16 kilometers
- Duration: 6 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Start: Bel
- End: Gavurağılı
- How to get there: You can start from Bel, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Bel, which takes about three hours and costs 30 TL.
- Main attractions: From Bel, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you downhill to the village of Gavurağılı, one of the most secluded and peaceful villages on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most wild and adventurous sections of the trail, such as the Delikkemer aqueduct, the Letoon sanctuary, and the Xanthos ruins. The Delikkemer aqueduct is a remarkable engineering feat, built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, to carry water from the mountains to the city of Patara. You can walk on the aqueduct, and see how it works. The Letoon sanctuary is a sacred site, dedicated to the goddess Leto and her twin children, Apollo and Artemis. You can see the remains of the temples, the oracle, and the inscriptions. The Xanthos ruins are the remains of the largest and the most influential city of the Lycian civilization, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. You can see the remains of the city, such as the acropolis, the theater, the tombs, and the monuments. Gavurağılı is a small and quiet village, with stone houses, a mosque, and a fountain. You can relax, enjoy the nature, and watch the stars from the village.
- Accommodation: Gavurağılı has a few accommodation options, such as guesthouses and homestays. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to visit the Letoon and Xanthos ruins, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 10 TL for each site. You will also need to follow the trail signs carefully, as they are not very clear and easy to miss. Alternatively, you can take a dolmuş from Bel to the ruins, which costs 5 TL and takes 15 minutes. However, you will miss the Delikkemer aqueduct, which is one of the most unique and impressive attractions on the trail.
Day 8: Gavurağılı to Kaş
- Distance: 18 kilometers
- Duration: 7 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Start: Gavurağılı
- End: Kaş
- How to get there: You can start from Gavurağılı, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Gavurağılı, which takes about four hours and costs 35 TL.
- Main attractions: From Gavurağılı, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you uphill to the town of Kaş, one of the most lively and charming towns on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most scenic and diverse sections of the trail, such as the Kaputaş beach, the Limanağzı bay, and the Antiphellos theater. The Kaputaş beach is a small and stunning beach, with turquoise waters, white sands, and red cliffs. You can swim, sunbathe, or take photos of the beach. The Limanağzı bay is a large and beautiful bay, with clear waters, green hills, and rocky islands. You can swim, snorkel, or kayak in the bay. The Antiphellos theater is a well-preserved and impressive theater, built by the Lycians in the 4th century BC, and later used by the Romans. You can see the theater, and enjoy the views of the town and the sea. Kaş is a lively and charming town, with a picturesque harbor, a colorful bazaar, and a historical castle. You can explore the town, visit the Lycian rock tombs, and enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife.
- Accommodation: Kaş has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from campsites and hostels to guesthouses and hotels. You can also find many restaurants, bars, and shops in the town.
- Personal tips: If you want to avoid the hassle of hiking up and down to the town, you can take a dolmuş from Gavurağılı to Kaş, which costs 10 TL and takes 30 minutes. The dolmuş will drop you off at the town center, and you can walk to the theater, which takes about 10 minutes. To get back to the trail, you will have to walk to the harbor, which takes about 15 minutes, and take a boat to the Limanağzı bay, which costs 10 TL and takes 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can hike to the bay, which takes about an hour and a half, and enjoy the views of the coast and the islands.
Day 9: Kaş to Üçağız
- Distance: 16 kilometers
- Duration: 6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Start: Kaş
- End: Üçağız
- How to get there: You can start from Kaş, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Kaş, which takes about four hours and costs 40 TL.
- Main attractions: From Kaş, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you uphill to the village of Üçağız, one of the most tranquil and scenic villages on the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most historical and cultural sections of the trail, such as the Apollonia ruins, the Aperlai ruins, and the Simena castle. The Apollonia ruins are the remains of an ancient Lycian city, with a necropolis, a theater, and a temple. The Aperlai ruins are the remains of another ancient Lycian city, with a harbor, a wall, and a church. The Simena castle is a medieval castle, built on a hilltop on the Kekova island, offering panoramic views of the bay and the sunken city. Üçağız is a small and peaceful village, with stone houses, a mosque, and a harbor. You can enjoy the hospitality and the cuisine of the villagers, and take a boat to the nearby islands and coves.
- Accommodation: Üçağız has a few accommodation options, such as guesthouses and homestays. You can also find some restaurants and shops in the village.
- Personal tips: If you want to visit the Apollonia and Aperlai ruins, you will need to follow the trail signs carefully, as they are not very clear and easy to miss. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Kaş to the ruins, which costs 50 TL and takes an hour. However, you will miss the views of the coast and the islands. If you want to visit the Simena castle, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 10 TL, and climb up the stairs to the top of the hill, which takes about 20 minutes. However, the views are worth the effort.
Day 10: Üçağız to Demre
- Distance: 18 kilometers
- Duration: 7 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Start: Üçağız
- End: Demre
- How to get there: You can start from Üçağız, or take a dolmuş from Fethiye to Üçağız, which takes about five hours and costs 45 TL.
- Main attractions: From Üçağız, you can continue the Lycian Way trail, which will take you downhill to the town of Demre, the end point of the trail. The trail will pass through some of the most challenging and rewarding sections of the trail, such as the Myra ruins, the Saint Nicholas church, and the Andriake harbor. The Myra ruins are the remains of one of the most important and well-preserved ancient cities in Turkey, with a necropolis, a theater, and a temple. The Saint Nicholas church is a historical and religious site, dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the original Santa Claus, who was born and served as a bishop in Myra. You can see the church, the tomb, and the frescoes. The Andriake harbor is an ancient harbor, where the Lycian Way trail officially ends. You can see the remains of the harbor, such as the granary, the bathhouse, and the museum. Demre is a modern and lively town, with a bus station, a market, and a park. You can celebrate the completion of the trail, buy some souvenirs, and plan your next destination.
- Accommodation: Demre has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from campsites and hostels to guesthouses and hotels. You can also find many restaurants, bars, and shops in the town.
- Personal tips: If you want to visit the Myra ruins and the Saint Nicholas church, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 20 TL for each site. You will also need to follow the trail signs carefully, as they are not very clear and easy to miss. Alternatively, you can take a dolmuş from Üçağız to the sites, which costs 10 TL and takes 30 minutes. However, you will miss the views of the coast and the mountains.
Practical Information for Hiking the Lycian Way
Hiking the Lycian Way is an amazing and rewarding experience, but it also requires some preparation and planning. Here are some practical information and tips for hiking the trail:
- Equipment and preparation: You will need some basic equipment and preparation for hiking the trail, such as:
- A good pair of hiking boots, with a sturdy sole and a comfortable fit.
- A backpack, with a capacity of 40 to 60 liters, and a rain cover.
- A tent, a sleeping bag, and a sleeping mat, if you plan to camp on the trail.
- A water bottle, a water filter, and a water purification tablet, as the water sources on the trail may not be safe to drink.
- A stove, a pot, and a spoon, if you plan to cook on the trail.
- A headlamp, a flashlight, and a spare battery, as the trail may not be well-lit at night.
- A map, a guidebook, and a GPS device, as the trail may not be well-marked and easy to follow.
- A first aid kit, a sunscreen, and a hat, as the trail may have some hazards and exposure to the sun.
- A camera, a phone, and a power bank, as the trail may have some amazing views and photo opportunities.
- Some snacks, such as nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate, as the trail may not have many food options.
- Some cash, in Turkish Lira, as the trail may not have many ATM or credit card facilities.
- Path markings and navigation: The Lycian Way trail is marked by red and white stripes, painted on rocks, trees, and poles along the way. However, the markings may not be very clear and consistent, especially in some remote and rugged sections of the trail. Therefore, you will need to pay attention and follow the trail signs carefully, and use a map, a guidebook, or a GPS device as a backup. You can also ask the locals for directions, as they are usually friendly and helpful. However, you will need to learn some basic Turkish words and phrases, as they may not speak English very well.
- Emergency numbers and safety precautions: The Lycian Way trail is generally safe and secure, but it also has some risks and dangers, such as injuries, illnesses, animals, or other hazards. Therefore, you will need to take some emergency numbers and safety precautions, such as:
- The emergency number for Turkey is 112, which can be used for any kind of emergency, such as medical, fire, or police. You can also use 155 for police, 110 for fire, and 118 for ambulance.
- The emergency number for the Lycian Way trail is +90 532 614 52 32, which can be used for any kind of problem or question related to the trail, such as accommodation, transport, or guidance. You can also visit the website www.lycianway.com for more information and support.
- The emergency number for the Lycian Way Association is +90 242 243 51 51, which can be used for any kind of feedback or suggestion related to the trail, such as maintenance, improvement, or donation. You can also visit the website www.lykia.org.tr for more information and membership.
- You should always hike with a partner or a group, and inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time, in case of any emergency or delay.
- You should always carry a first aid kit, and know how to use it, in case of any injury or illness. You should also carry some basic medicines, such as painkillers, antihistamines, and antibiotics, in case of any infection or allergy.
- You should always check the weather forecast, and dress and pack accordingly, in case of any change or extreme condition. You should also avoid hiking in the dark, in the rain, or in the heat, as they may increase the difficulty and the danger of the trail.
- Costs and budget: Hiking the Lycian Way trail can be as cheap or as expensive as you want, depending on your preferences and choices. However, here are some average costs and budget for hiking the trail, based on a 10-day itinerary and a moderate style:
- Accommodation: You can choose to camp or stay at guesthouses or hotels on the trail, depending on your comfort and convenience. The average cost of camping is 10 TL per night, the average cost of a guesthouse or a homestay is 50 TL per night, and the average cost of a hotel is 100 TL per night. Therefore, the total cost of accommodation for 10 days can range from 100 TL to 1,000 TL, depending on your choice.
- Food: You can choose to cook or eat at restaurants on the trail, depending on your taste and convenience. The average cost of cooking is 10 TL per day, the average cost of a restaurant is 30 TL per meal, and the average cost of a snack is 5 TL per item. Therefore, the total cost of food for 10 days can range from 100 TL to 900 TL, depending on your choice.
- Transport: You can choose to hike or take a dolmuş or a boat on the trail, depending on your speed and preference. The average cost of a dolmuş is 10 TL per ride, the average cost of a boat is 20 TL per ride, and the average cost of a taxi is 50 TL per ride. Therefore, the total cost of transport for 10 days can range from 0 TL to 500 TL, depending on your choice.
- Entrance fees: You can choose to visit or skip the historical and cultural sites on the trail, depending on your interest and curiosity. The average cost of an entrance fee is 10 TL per site, and the total number of sites on the trail is about 20. Therefore, the total cost of entrance fees for 10 days can range from 0 TL to 200 TL, depending on your choice.
- Miscellaneous: You can also spend some money on other things, such as souvenirs, tips, donations, or emergencies, depending on your generosity and situation. The average cost of a souvenir is 20 TL per item, the average cost of a tip is 10 TL per service, the average cost of a donation is 10 TL per cause, and the average cost of an emergency is 100 TL per case. Therefore, the total cost of miscellaneous for 10 days can range from 0 TL to 400 TL, depending on your choice.
Based on these estimates, the total cost of hiking the Lycian Way trail for 10 days can range from 300 TL to 3,000 TL, depending on your style and choices. However, you can always adjust your budget and expenses according to your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Hiking the Lycian Way trail is one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences you can have in Turkey, as it offers you a unique opportunity to explore the stunning scenery, rich history, and diverse culture of the Mediterranean coast. By following this guide, you can hike the best bits of the trail in 10 days, covering the most scenic, historical, and cultural highlights of the trail. You can also customize your trip according to your interests and preferences, and enjoy the adventure at your own pace and style.
We hope this guide helps you with your hiking trip, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey. If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know. 😊.
