Lycian Way hike: routes, what to see and where to go

Lycian Way hike in Turkey: routes

lycian way best tours

The Lycian Way, stretching for almost 540 km from Antalya to Fethiye, embodies the grandeur and diversity of Turkish nature and culture. Discovered by British explorer Kate Clow in 1999, the trail has become one of the most popular hiking routes in the world. 

Hiking schedule along the Lycian Way for autumn 2024 

October 2024
Mountains.Eastern part 12-18.10
Rocks. Western part 19-25.10
Mountains. Eastern part 27.10-2.11
Central. Ancient cities 27.10-2.11

November 2024

Mountains. Eastern part 3-9.11
Author's tour 3-9.11
Central. Ancient cities 3-9.11
Rocks. Western part 3-9.11

Hiking the Lycian Way not only attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its beauty, but also has cultural significance. Included in the list of Great Routes, the Lycian Way offers travelers not only the opportunity to enjoy majestic views of nature, but also to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Turkish life, get acquainted with local customs and treat themselves to fruits straight from the trees. Lycian Way eastern part - an optimal tour that combines the sea and mountainous parts of Turkey

The Lycian Way is usually divided into two parts - Eastern and Western.

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Lycian Way route on the map

Eastern Lycian Way hike

Hiking the Eastern Lycian Way is an adventure that begins in the picturesque Goynuk Canyon and ends at the Mediterranean Sea near the famous Cirali Beach. Although the trail officially begins in Antalya, most people choose to start in Goynuk Canyon, avoiding the long and hot trek. After passing through high mountain peaks and impressive passes, hikers enjoy unique views and discover historical ruins, including artifacts from Roman and Byzantine times, on Mount Olympos.

One of the main impressions of this route is the ascent to Takhtali (Olympos), the highest point of the Taurus Mountains. Although the path to the top can be challenging, hikers are rewarded with stunning views and the chance to have fun on a daunting swing at the edge of the mountainside.

Hike along the eastern part of the route guaranteed to impress with Martian landscapes, wild turtles, beautiful bays with clear seas and even edible cacti.

The Eastern Lycian Way can be walked leisurely in 7 days.

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The attractions of this part of the route are:

— Mount Takhtaly (2365 m) — ascent to the highest point of the Tauride Mountains on foot or using the cable car;
— Goynuk Canyon with the river of the same name flowing through it. Here you can go rafting or just admire the views of the gorge.
— The Fires of Chimera. It is a mountain whose slopes are covered with natural methane emissions that ignite in the air. A flaming mountain, so to speak.
— Ancient cities. Travelers can see numerous ruins of ancient cities and monuments that they encounter along the way.

Western Lycian Way

The Western Lycian Way trek is a trek from Demre or Finike to Faralya and Oludeniz, stretching along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. This section of the route includes beautiful bays, diverse beaches and historical cities of ancient Lycia. Despite the absence of high mountain areas and sharp changes in altitude, there are numerous rocks and cliffs to overcome.

This part of the Lycian Trail is often walked by children and beginners in hiking, as this route is considered easier and more uphill.

Travelers will encounter many historical monuments, well preserved for more than two thousand years, as well as the following famous locations:

- Faralya (Butterfly Valley). A place where you can meet a variety of butterflies, more than a hundred species, in their natural habitat.
- Oludeniz (Blue Lagoon): A beautiful place with crystal clear waters and opportunities for swimming and relaxation. Here you can enjoy the tranquility, watch paragliders and walk along the shore enjoying the turquoise waves.
— Ancient cities. Just like in the east, in the west of the Lycian Way you can find many ancient cities and archaeological sites that reflect the rich history of the region.
— Beaches and bays. The western part of the Lycian Way is known for its beautiful beaches and wild bays where you can enjoy natural beauty and solitude.

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Is it possible to walk the Lycian Way on your own?

Of course, you can walk the route of the Lycian Way on your own. You can choose which part to follow and which locality to start from. The entire route is marked with special red and white markers, and many tourists also leave pyramids of stones as a guide.

Apps on your phone, such as the free Trailsmart and Osmand, will help you stay on track.

To complete the trek, no matter which path you choose, be sure to carefully consider the material equipment: a strong backpack, comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes, trekking poles, navigation aids, a hat and sunscreen, a first aid kit, snacks and water, insurance and local currency. These are just the basic basics.
If you are planning to go tent camping, then of course all the necessary camping equipment will be added to this list. You can read more about what equipment you need to take with you on a hike. here.

Infrastructure of the Lycian Way also allows you to complete it yourself. Along the route, you can buy provisions in towns and cities, where you can also stop for lunch or overnight. The cost of a standard room for two in hotels will be 15-20 dollars for two. Some tourists choose the option of radial hikes: they check into a hotel and go out on the route for a day every day, after which they return back.

In general, you can walk the trail on your own, but our club is still in favor of going on a full-fledged journey with an experienced guide.

It’s safer this way and, believe me, hiking in a group of like-minded people will add to your impressions: they will show you the most unusual places, tell you interesting stories from the hikes and make the journey easier.

You can even choose Hiking the Lycian Way without backpacks, if you have little experience, or option hiking with a focus on sea bays and bays.

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

The classic periods for hiking along the route are April-May and August-September, when it is not very hot or rainy in this part of Turkey.

In the mountains during this period it is about +10...15°С in the mountains and about 20°С on the coasts. During the winter months, people also go hiking along the Lycian Way, but there is a high chance that you will encounter very unfavorable weather and the condition of the track will be dangerous.

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Thus, the choice of route along the Lycian Way depends on your preferences and level of training. If you have any questions, feel free to write to us, we will help you choose a tour and answer your questions.

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