LYCIAN WAY HIKING TOUR OVERVIEW

🌟 Unlock the Journey of a Lifetime Hiking the Enchanting  Lycian Way in Turkey! 🌟

Are you ready to embark on an epic adventure that’s rich in both natural splendor and ancient wonder?

Discover the Lycian Way—a world-class hiking trail that follows the ancient trading routes of the Lycians along Turkey’s awe-inspiring Mediterranean coastline with the intoxicating mystery of its 18 ancient cities.

The 509 kilometer-long Lycian Way trail runs from Fethiye to Antalya, and in 1999, it became Turkey’s first marked long-distance trail that met international standards. 

✨ How the Lycian Way Was Created: ✨
Conceived by British trailblazer Kate Clow in the 1990s, her plan for the 509 km hiking trail won her a grant, turning her blueprint of the interconnected ancient cities into a trail of international acclaim. In just two years of dedicated labor, the Lycian Way was born—a hiking marvel so profound that it quickly earned its place on the prestigious British Sunday Times’ list of the world’s top hiking trails!

🏆 We’re pleased to offer two self-guided hiking tours that are the best sections of the Lycian Way, in our opinion. 🏆
 

1️⃣ The West Lycian Way:

Unearth the coastal gemstones and archaeological jewels between Kayakoy and Patara. The hikes are shorter but steeper than on the East Route, and the terrain is more rugged, making it absolutely breathtaking.

2️⃣ The East Lycian Way:

You’ll hike the best sections of the Lycian Way from Kekova to Tekirova. The hikes are longer but with less ascent than on the West Route. The trail is also closer to the sea, so it’s a great choice if you want to stop to cool down with a swim in the sea while hiking. One day is also an optional hiking day so if you want a rest day, this tour is a good choice.

🛏️ Your Comfort, Your Choice: From Basic to Bliss 🛏️
We offer two types of accommodation packages, standard or comfort so that you can choose according to your budget and travel style. 

🌐 Navigate with Ease: We’ve Got Your Back 🌐
When you book your self-guided Lycian Way tour with us, you don’t just book a hike; you book a hassle-free, well-curated journey of discovery. Included in your package:

• 🛰️ Real-time GPS routes so that you won’t get lost
• 🗺️ In-depth hiking notes with drawings
• 🚐 Complimentary to-and-from hike transfers (when required)
• ✈️ Airport transfers
• 🧳 Seamless bag transfers, you’ll arrive at your accommodation to find your bags waiting for you

When you’re hiking the Lycian Way you’ll simply carry your water, picnic lunch and a swimsuit; we make your navigation a breeze!

🔥 Step into the extraordinary. Book your Lycian Way adventure today and savor a lifetime of memories! 🔥

WEST LYCIAN WAY

Day 1: Transfer from Dalaman to Kayakoy

We’ll pick you up at Dalaman airport or at the bus station in Fethiye and take you in a private transfer to Kayakoy, a valley nestled in the hills above Fethiye.  If you arrive early, you can wander around the village sampling delicious Turkish cuisine or relax on the spacious grounds of your accommodation, complete with a swimming pool! 

• Hiking Details: 0 km
• Ascent: –
• Driving: 1h 15m
• Included food: –
• Hotel Grade: Choice of Standard or Comfort
• Hotel Amenities: air conditioning and a swimming pool

Day 2: Hike to the Ghost Town of Kayakoy – Oludeniz

Today is a short day of hiking, so you can enjoy a leisurely relaxing breakfast by the pool. Then, you’ll walk to the hauntingly beautiful ghost town of Kayaköy, an abandoned Greek village where ancient stone houses and chapels whisper tales of a bygone era, set against a backdrop of lush hillsides and azure skies—truly an ethereal retreat for history buffs and nature lovers.

After your visit to Kayaköy, your hike begins from the top of the hill where you’ll start to descend towards the sea with stunning sea views as your companion.

You’ll arrive at Ölüdeniz, a coastal paradise, where the blue lagoon meets golden sand, offering a dreamlike setting for paragliding, snorkeling, and relaxation under the Mediterranean sun. Here, you’ll have time for a leisurely swim and soak in the sea views with a cold drink before taking a local bus back to Kayakoy at your leisure.

• Hiking Details: 7 km (4.35 miles), 300 m (984.25 ft) ascent
• Driving: Bus from Ölüdeniz to Kayaköy, 5 km (3.11 miles)
• Included: Breakfast
• Hotel Grade: Standard or Comfort

Day 3: Hike From Ovacik to Faralya ( Butterfly Valley)

Leaving  Kayaköy, you’ll take a private transfer that we’ve arranged for you to the official start of the Lycian Way above Ovacik.  The hiking trail is a gradual ascent that gets steeper but the views become even more breathtaking so you’ll hardly notice. 

You can refill your water bottles at the gushing spring at Kabaagac village, the site of an amazing rockfall. From here, you’ll start your descent to Faralya, a serene Turkish village perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the turquoise sea.

At your accommodation, cool off with a well-deserved swim in the pool, enjoy a cocktail and the sunset view before enjoying dinner in your friendly guesthouse.  

• Hiking Details: 14 km (8.7 miles), 800m (2624.67 ft) ascent
• Driving: 12 min
• Included: Breakfast and Dinner
• Hotel Grade: Standard or Comfort

Day 4: Faralya – Kabak Coastal Route

Today, your hike starts straight from your accommodation with the Lycian Way following pristine coastal cliffs and coves between Butterfly Valley and Kabak Beach.  For a lot of the route, you’ll be protected by the shade from the natural red pine forests.

Cool off with a swim in the sea at the remote cove of Aktas, a hidden gem with a gorgeous beach with large, flat, white stones. 

• Hiking Details: 7,5 km (4.66 miles), 500m (1640.42 ft) ascent
• Driving: None
• Included: Breakfast, Dinner and Picnic
• Hotel Grade: Comfort

Day 5: Hike From Kabak – Alinca – Gey. Walk of the Seven Capes

While today is your most difficult day of hiking the West Lycian Way, the gradual ascent makes it seem easier, and there are interesting rest stops along the way.

Your hike starts in the valley of Kabak and soon, the trail turns into a well-marked gentle mule track that weaves its way gradually up through the forest and escarpments to the village of Alinca, which has a population of just 39 people. 

Here, you’ll get absolutely stunning views for lunch or a coffee that are arguably among the best that you’ll get on the entire Lycian Way. 

As you descend, you’re treated to non-stop sea views before arriving in the village of Gey, an untouched Turkish village where time seems to stand still. You’ll see the authentic charm of rural life amidst rolling hills, and fertile farmlands,  in a scenic location.

• Hiking Details: 16 km (9.94 miles), 1300m (4265.1 ft) ascent
• Driving: None
• Included: Breakfast, Dinner and Picnic
• Hotel Grade: Basic or Premier

Day 6: Hike From Gey to Sidyma, then transfer to Patara, optional visit to Xanthos

You’ll hike directly from your accommodation in Gey, ascending over the hard karstic pass, you’ll enter a lush valley that takes you all the way to the village of Sidyma.

From there, it’s just a short walk to the ancient city of Sidyma, where you’ll find centuries-old ruins, tombs and temples amidst olive groves. This historic site is definitely a must-see.

After visiting, return to the main village and enjoy tea with the locals opposite the mosque. From there, your driver will pick you up and take to to the town of Patara.

Ask your driver to stop at Xanthos. It was the ancient capital city of the Lycian Federation and its greatest city for most of Lycian history. It’s also a UNESCO site and is one of the highlights of the Lycian Way. History buffs will love it.

After your visit to Xanthos, you’ll continue on to Patara where you’re free to choose a restaurant of your choice or eat at your accommodation.  

• Hiking Details: 9 km (5.59 miles), 380m (1246.72 ft) ascent
• Driving: 40 min
• Included: Breakfast and Tea
• Hotel Grade: Comfort

Day 7: Aqueduct Walk to the Lycian Capital City – Patara

Day 8: Leave Patara and Transfer to Dalaman For Your Flight

Depending on when your flight is, we’ll arrange a pickup time from Patara and take you to Dalaman Airport.

If you have more time in Turkey, contact us for extensions.  

• Driving: 2h 15m
• Included: Breakfast
• Hotel Grade: 

WEST LYCIAN WAY SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOUR INFO: Prices and Booking

We offer two choices for accommodation: standard or comfortable.

Standard Accommodation Package:

Price per Person: €510 per person based on double occupancy.   

Price for Solo Travellers: €892 per person in a single room 

Below are samples of the accommodations we frequently use. Please note your accommodations may differ depending on availability but will be similar. 

Click the names to see the reviews. 

• Kayaköy – Muzzy’s Hotel 2 nights BB
• Faralya – Keyif Hotel 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Kabak – Shiva Camp 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Gey – Ramazan Pansiyon 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Patara – St. Nicholas Pansiyon 2 nights BB

Comfort Accommodation Package:

Price per Person: €730 per person based on double occupancy.   

Price for Solo Travellers: €1234 per person in a single room 

• Kayaköy – Villa Rhapsody 2 nights BB
• Faralya – Montenegro Motel 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Kabak – Shiva Camp Lux Room 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Gey – The Lighthouse Hotel 1 night FB (Dinner, breakfast and picnic lunch)
• Patara – Dardanos Hotel 2 nights BB

When Is The West Lycian Way Hiking Tour Offered?:
While the Lycian Way can be hiked at any time of the year, the best time of year to hike the Lycian Way is in March – May and Sept- November. 

Booking Conditions:
Once we’ve confirmed your accommodations, you only have to make a 10% deposit. The remainder is due 30 days before the start of your trip – some of the best booking conditions in the travel business.

To bring you the Lycian Way, we’ve partnered with the trusted local company Amber Travel, who’ve been in business for 25 years. They’re located in Kaş Türkiye. 

You’ll book your trip directly with them, and they’ll handle your trip details, but of course, we’re here to help. This ensures that more of your money benefits the local community where you’ll be hiking.

You can see the booking terms and conditions here. 

EAST LYCIAN WAY

Day 1: Arrive Antalya Airport

You’ll be met by your driver at the arrivals airport of Antalya Airport, where you’ll be taken to your accommodation in the old walled town of Antalya.  You’ll find your detailed Lycian Way hiking notes in your hotel room.

Depending on when you arrive, you may have time to explore Antalya’s cobbled stone streets or prepare your muscles for the hiking ahead with a traditional Turkish Bath. There are many bars and restaurants to enjoy your first night in Turkey.  

• Driving: 30 min
• Included: –
• Hotel Grade: Standard/Comfort

Day 2: Hike From Tekirova to Cirali via Maden Beach

Day 3: Hike From  Ulupinar-Chimera- Cirali

Day 4: Hike From Cirali – Adrasan Bay

Day 5: Optional Hikes or Relax in Adrasan Bay

Day 6: Hike from Adrasan to Melanippe via the Gelidonya Point and Lighthouse

Day 7: Your C hoice of the Historical Sites of Demre followed by a Hike via Istlada to the Ancient City Of Simena, then a Boat Ride to Kekova (Kaleucagiz)

You’ll have the opportunity this morning to visit the Church of St. Nicholas –  named after the famed Father Christmas.  Nicholas was a Lycian bishop of Myra, the one-time capital of Lycia.

He was known for his kindness to orphans and the poor, frequently giving anonymous gifts by throwing money down chimneys of people and children in need. He was also a serious theologian and was at the council of Nicea in 325 AD, when the tenets of the Christian church were agreed upon.  

You’ll have time to visit his church and also the ancient city of Myra, with its impressive theater and rock tombs, which are some of the most impressive Lycian tombs in all of Turkey.

Then, you’ll take a transfer to the start of your last hike. It starts from the village of Kapakli, passing the castle ruins of Simena, a Byzantine-era castle that offers stunning views. 

You’ll then descend through the protected ancient city of Simena. It’s a small Lycian coastal town that’s been inhabited since the 4th century. Today it is called Kaleköy. It’s known for having the best homemade ice cream in Turkey, which you can enjoy will exploring the ruins. Of particular note are the  300-seat theater, temples and Lycian tombs. 

From here, your boat driver will take you to Kaleucagiz, your village for the last night.

• Hiking Details: 8.5 km (5.28 miles), 150m (492.13 ft) ascent
• Driving: 15 min
• Included: Breakfast
• Hotel Grade: Comfort/Basic

Day 8: Boat from Simena to Ucagiz village. Transfer to Antalya or Dalaman Airport

Depending on when your flight is, we’ll pick you up with a boat and bring you to the village of Ucagiz. From there, we’ll transfer you to the airport in Antalya or Dalaman.

• Driving: 3 hours
• Included: Breakfast

EAST LYCIAN WAY SELF-GUIDED HIKING TOUR INFO: Prices and Booking

We offer two choices for accommodation: standard or comfortable.

Standard Accommodation Package:

Price Per Person: €663 per person based on double occupancy
Price for Solo Travellers: €1060 per person in a single room

Below are samples of the accommodations we frequently use. Please note your accommodations may differ depending on availability but will be similar. 

• Antalya – Atelya Art Hotel 1 night BB
• Cirali – Irmak Hotel 2 nights BB
• Adrasan – Arykanda River Garden or Deniz Hotel 2 nights BB
• Demre – Beymelek Stone Houses 1 night HB (Dinner, breakfast)
• Kekova – Ekin Pansiyon 1 night BB

Comfort Accommodation Package:

Price Per Person: €740 per person based on double occupancy
Price for Solo Travellers: €1275 per person in a single room

• Antalya – Minyon Boutique Hotel 1 night BB
• Cirali – Odile Hotel 2 nights BB
• Adrasan – Papirus Hotel 2 nights BB
• Demre – Beymelek Stone Houses 1 night HB (Dinner, breakfast)
• Kekova – Baba Veli Hotel Deluxe room 1 night BB

When Is The East Lycian Way Hiking Tour Offered?:
While the Lycian Way can be hiked at any time of the year, the best time of year to hike the Lycian Way is March – May and Sept- November. 

Booking Conditions:

Once we’ve confirmed your accommodations, you only have to make a 10% deposit. The remainder is due 30 days before the start of your trip – some of the best booking conditions in the travel business.

To bring you the Lycian Way, we’ve partnered with the trusted local company Amber Travel, who’ve been in business for 25 years. They’re located in Kaş Türkiye. 

You’ll book your trip directly with them, and they’ll handle your trip details, but of course, we’re here to help. This ensures that more of your money benefits the local community where you’ll be hiking.

You can see the booking terms and conditions here. 

FAQS ABOUT HIKING THE LYCIAN WAY IN TURKEY

When is the best time of year to hike the Lycian Way?

While the Lycian Way can be hiked at any time of the year, the best time of year to hike the Lycian Way is March – May and Sept – November. 

In summer, it’s too hot, and in winter months, it can be quite rainy and many of the accommodations aren’t open. It will also be too cold to swim. 

How well-marked is the Lycian Way?

In most sections, the trail is well-marked and is marked with red and white lines. You’ll also see Red X to warn you that you’re going the wrong way. 

However, as the route is subject to construction work or new paths, you’ll also want a GPS of the path. I used mine a lot in a few sections and found it very helpful to have it. 

Is it safe to solo hike the Lycian Way?

While it’s possible, we don’t recommend solo hiking the Lycian Way. In a few places, you may encounter sheepdogs, which can be aggressive, and it’s better to be with someone else should you encounter any.

I only heard one while hiking the West Lycian Way, and we just diverted our route so as not to encounter him. We can also arrange guided hikes if you want to join a group. Please contact us for dates. 

What to do in case of an emergency on the Lycian Way?

You’ll want to ensure that your smartphone is charged, I recommend a solar charger in case you need to make an emergency call. Note: A signal won’t be available in all locations. 

Call 112 for medical emergencies and 115 to call the police. You’ll see markers along the Lycian way with numbers. Remember these as they serve as location markers to make it easier for help to find you. We’ll provide you with GPS tracks so you can also report the coordinates to emergency services.

And remember to always carry a first aid kit, as depending on your location, it can take a while for rescuers to reach you. 
 

PHOTOS OF THE WEST LYCIAN WAY IN TURKEY

PHOTOS OF THE EAST LYCIAN WAY IN TURKEY