The Lycian Way is Turkey’s most famous long-distance hiking trail, stretching 540 kilometres from Fethiye to Antalya along the ancient Lycian coast. Named one of the world’s top 10 long-distance walks by The Sunday Times, it passes through pine forests, ancient ruins, remote villages and stunning coastal scenery. Here’s everything you need to plan your trek.
Route Overview
The trail is waymarked with red and white blazes and runs from Ovacık (near Fethiye) to Hisarçandır (near Antalya). Most hikers complete it in 25–30 days, though you can easily walk individual stages as day hikes. The path alternates between coastal stretches, mountain passes, and descents into ancient Lycian cities. Elevation varies from sea level to over 1,800 metres.
Best Time to Hike
The ideal seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Wildflowers bloom in spring; autumn offers warm swimming after a day’s walk. Summer (June–August) is too hot for comfortable hiking. Winter is possible on lower coastal sections but mountain passes may be snowy.
Key Stages
Fethiye to Faralya (Days 1–3)
Starting from Ovacık, the trail climbs through pine forests before descending to the famous Butterfly Valley viewpoint. The path continues along dramatic clifftop paths to Kabak Beach and then to Faralya. Challenging sections with steep ascents but incredible views of the turquoise coast below.
Patara to Kalkan (Days 8–10)
Walk through the vast Patara sand dunes and ancient Lycian capital, then follow coastal paths to the charming town of Kalkan. The Patara ruins — including a parliament building, lighthouse and colonnaded street — are highlights. Swimming at Patara Beach rewards the effort.
Kaş to Kekova (Days 11–14)
From the vibrant town of Kaş, the trail winds along the peninsula before descending to the sunken city of Kekova. You’ll pass Lycian rock tombs, tiny fishing villages and swim in the clearest water on the trail. Consider a boat trip to see the underwater ruins.
Olympos to Çıralı (Days 22–24)
The ancient tree-house city of Olympos leads to the peaceful beach of Çıralı. A highlight is the night hike to Yanartaş (Chimera) — natural gas flames that have burned since antiquity. The mythology says this is where the Chimera monster was slain by Bellerophon.
Accommodation
Options range from village pensions and family homestays to wild camping. Most villages along the route have at least one pension offering half-board (dinner and breakfast). Expect to pay €20–40 per person for a pension with meals. Wild camping is generally tolerated but ask locally. Carry a tent if you want maximum flexibility.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support — the rocky terrain demands them
- At least 3 litres of water capacity — water sources can be far apart
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, lightweight long sleeves
- Headlamp for early starts and the Chimera night visit
- Swimming gear — you’ll pass irresistible beaches daily
- A lightweight sleeping bag if camping or for cool mountain nights
- Kate Clow’s guidebook “The Lycian Way” — the definitive trail guide
Practical Tips
- Download offline maps — mobile signal is patchy in remote sections
- Start early each day to avoid midday heat
- The red-and-white trail markers are generally reliable but occasionally faded
- Stock up on food in towns — village shops have limited selection
- Turkish hikers often walk the route in reverse (Antalya to Fethiye)
- Dogs guarding livestock can be intimidating — carry a stick and move calmly
