Are you looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of outdoor sports with the beauty of travel? Look no further than the Lycian Way, an ancient coastal footpath in Turkey. This route spans over 500 kilometres and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea as well as an opportunity to explore the historic sites of Lycia.
With its wide variety of terrain and breathtaking scenery, the Lycian Way is sure to satisfy both experienced hikers and those who are just beginning their outdoor journey. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan a successful trip along the Lycian Way.
Overview of the Lycian Way
The Lycian Way is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches along the southwestern coast of Turkey. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The trail covers a distance of approximately 540 kilometres (335 miles) and is considered one of the most picturesque hiking routes in the world. The Lycian Way takes its name from Lycia, an ancient civilisation that once thrived in the area.
The trail was established in 1999 by British expatriate Kate Clow, who was inspired by the region’s captivating landscapes and wanted to promote sustainable tourism. Since then, it has gained popularity among hikers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The trail offers a diverse range of experiences, from walking through fragrant pine forests to ascending rugged mountain peaks and descending into picturesque coastal villages.
Hikers can witness breathtaking views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, explore ancient ruins, and encounter traditional rural communities along the way. The Lycian Way provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in nature, history, and local culture.
Some of the most popular sections of the Lycian Way include Kabak Beach to Alinca, with its panoramic views of the coastline; the ancient city of Olympos, known for its well-preserved ruins and stunning beach; and the rugged terrain of Geyikbayiri to Antalya, which offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience.
The Likya Way Itinerary
The Lycian Way is a famous trekking trail in Turkey that covers about 540 km along the Mediterranean coast. A challenging and breathtaking journey is full of history, natural beauty, and adventure. To complete the whole trail, it would take around 25-30 days. However, for those who do not have the luxury of time, there are shorter routes available as well.
One of the popular routes is the Fethiye to Antalya itinerary, which covers approximately 230 km in 11–12 days. Here, you can find the cheap tickets to Dalaman which is one of the closest airport to Fethiye and start your journey toward Fethiye, a beautiful town that offers stunning sea views, turquoise waters, and sandy beaches. From there, the trail leads you to Ölüdeniz, a paradise for paragliders, and then to Kabak Bay, where you can take a refreshing swim in a natural pool.
Continuing on, the trail passes through the ancient city of Patara, famous for its long sandy beach and historic ruins. From Patara, the path takes you to the picturesque village of Kaş, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and take in the beauty of the Turkish coastline. After Kaş, the route leads you to Kalkan, where you can see a mix of traditional Turkish architecture and modern hotels and restaurants.
As the trek ends, the last few days will take you to the Taurus Mountains, where you will witness stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Finally, the trek will end in Antalya, a popular tourist destination, famous for its beaches, waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
How long is the Lycian Way?
The Lycian Way is a 540-kilometre trail that runs along the coast of southern Turkey. The trail begins in Ölüdeniz, a popular tourist town in the province of Muğla, and ends in Geyikbayırı, a village near Antalya. It passes through the Taurus Mountains and follows the coastline, offering hikers a chance to see both natural beauty and ancient ruins.
The length of the Lycian Way can be intimidating, but it is important to remember that it is not necessary to complete the entire trail in one go. Most people break it up into sections and hike different parts over several days or even weeks. The trail is divided into 23 sections, each of which can be hiked in a day or two. The length of each section ranges from 10 to 25 kilometers, depending on the terrain and the level of difficulty.
The time it takes to complete the Lycian Way will depend on a variety of factors, including your level of fitness, how much time, you have available, and the pace at which you hike. Some hikers choose to complete the entire trail in four to five weeks, while others may take several months to complete it. It is important to plan and have a realistic idea of how long it will take you to hike each section of the trail.
In summary, the Lycian Way is a long and challenging trail, but it is possible to break it up into manageable sections and hike it over several weeks or even months. It is important to plan and be realistic about how long it will take you to complete each section of the trail.
How to Get Lycian Way?
Getting to the Lycian Way can be a bit of a journey, but the stunning landscapes and historical sites that await make it all worth it. The trail is located along the southern coast of Turkey, starting in Fethiye and ending in Antalya.
If you are traveling from overseas, the closest airports are Dalaman and Antalya. From there, you can either rent a car or take a bus to get to the starting point in Fethiye.
For those already in Turkey, a few different bus companies make the trip from major cities like Istanbul or Ankara. By watching the beautiful scene, you can get cheap flights to Antalya . Just keep in mind that it is a long journey, so be sure to pack some snacks and entertainment for the ride.
Once you are in Fethiye, you can begin your hike along the Lycian Way. Make sure to bring a map or GPS device, as some parts of the trail can be difficult to navigate.
Alternatively, you can also join a guided tour or hire a local guide to accompany you on the trail. This is a great option for those who may not feel confident hiking alone or want to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
No matter how you choose to get to the Lycian Way be prepared for a breathtaking journey through some of Turkey’s most beautiful landscapes.
