The Lycian Way is a 540-kilometer thru-hike on the Turkish coast in the southeast of the country. The trail takes you from Ölü Deniz, near Fethiye, to Geyikbayırı, just below Antalya. Along the way, you walk in a kind of semi-bowl on old trade routes, donkey paths, and stony mountain trails that lead you past ancient ruins, cliffs, beaches, mountains, and forests. With the turquoise sea always in sight, it is a stunning trail.
Leave the seaside resorts behind and discover the real old Turkey on this trail. Exactly what Kate Clow, the creator of the trail, wanted to show you. With this first long-distance walk in Turkey, she hoped to give the region a new impulse, build bridges and preserve old roads. And it seems to work well because the Lycian Way is well-known worldwide and many thru-hikers walk (at least part of) the trail every year.
About old trade routes
Lycia is the historical name of the Tekke peninsula on the south coast of Turkey and means “country of light.” Due to the strategic location of the area, Lycia has been conquered many times over the centuries. To name a few of the conquerors, the Persians, Alexander the Great, and the Romans. Therefore the region has great cultural wealth. The path leads you past many ruins, monuments, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The trail starts in Ölü Deniz, which is two hours from Dalaman airport. From here, you will walk 540 kilometers and about 30 days to the endpoint. You follow the recognizable red and white marking and make your way over the narrow, sometimes steep stony roads. Along the way, you sleep in small pensions or hotels or take your tent with you to camp.
Highlights along the Lycian Way
The trail will amaze you with its versatility and surprises again and again; both in culture and nature. A few highlights along the trail:
Mt. Olympos, or Tahtali Dagi
The highest point on the Lycian Way. Here, you climb its 2366 meters and have a unique view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another thing that is unique here is that you can walk down to the coast from the peak to cool off in the water.
Patara
Most of the ancient ruins can be found in Patara. This historic site played a major role in the ancient Roman Empire as a holy site and pilgrimage site. So, it’s no surprise that these ruins and ancient temples are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kekova
The drowned city of Kekova surprises you on the Lycian Way. Directly on the route, you will find the sunken ruins and you can even snorkel to see the remains underwater. However, much of the old town is largely still above water and is one of the absolute highlights of the trail.
More about the trail
Do not forget
For thru-hiking we have put together a large packing list. Additionally, there are a few items that you should remember for the Lycian Way:
- Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- Camping gear for magical sunrises and sunsets along the trail
- Insect repellent and a mosquito net
- Poles can offer a solution for many ascents and descents
Best time to visit
If you want to walk the entire trail in one go, it’s best to do it in spring from March through May or in the fall from September through November. In summer, it is way too hot and in winter it can get quite cold. And if you go in the colder months, bring a warm sleeping bag and be prepared for a lot of rain in November and December.
Good to know
You can hike the trail in approximately four weeks. Along the way, you can camp or stay the night in the small accommodations along the trail. Despite the good signage on the trail, it is smart to take a good map and GPS. Finally: make sure to bring enough water! On some parts of the trail, there are not many water points and the temperature can rise drastically.
Happy trails!
Useful links
More info: Lycian Way
