Lycian Trail - traveling from Antalya to Fethiye
The Lycian Trail is one of the most scenic and exciting hiking destinations in Turkey. The route is about 540 kilometers long and runs along the Mediterranean coast, from Antalya to Fethiye.
This route offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the magnificent natural scenery, rich history and cultural heritage of the Lykia region.
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General information about the Lykia Trail
The route was laid out and marked by a British woman, Kate Clow. She moved to Turkey in 1989 and fell in love with walking along the southwest coast. This inspired her to connect ancient monuments with the trail and she approached tourism ministry officials with the idea. The officials were not interested in the idea and Clow had to seek sponsors to mark the trail.
In 1999 the trail was opened and a book about it was published in English. The trail is now maintained by a cultural trail society headed by Clow.
The whole trail can be roughly divided into three parts: East, Central and West.
The western part of the trail starts at the Lycian tombs above the town of Fethiye and rises above Oludeniz. It ends at the ancient city of Patara, which is next to a wide and long beach.
The central part runs along the coast from the town of Kaş to Finike, including the sunken ancient city of Simena. It is opposite the island of Kekova and close to Myra of Lycia.
The eastern part of the trail runs from the Güver Uçurumu Canyon to Geykbayırı. This segment has an alternative route that starts before Hisacandırım. It is located next to the cable car to Mount Tünektepe and includes a sharp descent to the sea.
Traveling the entire route will take about a month on average, but many people choose to explore only part of the route.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to go is in the spring and fall. From the end of March to the end of May, there is little rain, many flowering plants, and the air warms up to +20...+25 °C. At the same time, the sun is not as strong as in summer. It is already possible to swim in the sea, although for some people the water may not seem warm yet. But springs and streams are filled with water, unlike at the end of the season.
From June to the end of September is very hot, walking along the trail in such weather is not only difficult, but also dangerous. From the end of September to the end of November is another period suitable for traveling. Going with a backpack is no longer so hot, and the water in the sea has not yet had time to cool down. In addition, at this time is ripe with many fruits: grapes, figs, pomegranates and oranges. It should be noted that by the end of the season many springs dry up and you need to remember to stock up on water.
From mid-November to the end of March is the rainy season in Turkey, and the temperature at night can drop to +5 °C. In the mountains, snow falls and temperatures can be minus. These nuances should be taken into account when planning your trip.
Preparing for a trip
When going on a trip, you should study the route and decide on the most preferable option of hiking. This will determine what you will need to take with you, what you can do without, and what you need to take necessarily.
Hiking options:
1. Self-guided hikes for one day with check-out from your hotel. This is the easiest option, where you check into a hotel and can explore the Lycian Trail at least every day. However, even such day hikes require careful planning. This is necessary to make it back to the hotel before dark, whether on foot or by transportation.
For such a hike, it is enough to take only the essentials: water, snacks and a flashlight.
2. In a tourist group, but with minimal loads. This option is suitable for those who do not want to do the route planning and carry heavy things. Tent, sleeping bag and mat, the total weight of which is about 5 kilograms, is delivered by car. In some cases, it happens that these accessories are not required at all. With a light backpack, the back is not very tired by the end of the day.
Travelers spend the nights in small hotels and their belongings are transported by car. For lunch, the organizers provide food for snacks. Many travel companies have such offers.
3. In a tour group, but using their own belongings. In this case, participants get a unique opportunity to spend time in nature, while remaining within the framework of an organized hike. The tour company takes care of all the organizational aspects, including planning the route, booking overnight stays and preparing the necessary documents. This provides participants with confidence and support as they travel.
Despite this, participants take responsibility for their personal belongings such as tents, sleeping bags and food.
Each member of the group will not only have to carry their own belongings, but also prepare their own food. This creates a special atmosphere of cooperation and mutual help in the team, because the cooking tasks are shared among all the participants.
This camping format allows you to go deep into nature and strengthen team spirit. It also provides an unforgettable experience of communicating with nature and each other.
4. Independent hiking with overnight stays in campgrounds or hotels. In this option, it is important to accurately plan the distance in order to reach the accommodation before dark. All things should be carried with you. However, a tent is not necessary, as it will not be needed in hotels and most organized campgrounds.
These campgrounds, in addition to tents for rent, usually have showers, toilets, refrigerators, wi-fi and the ability to charge your phone. In addition, campground owners often offer breakfast and dinner for their guests.
5. Independent camping with a tent. This option is the most difficult, as you will need to carry a lot of things with you. There are quite a few places in Turkey where camping overnight is allowed, with the exception of coastal reserves and city beaches. An area that does not have camping facilities is called a wilderness area. There is often no toilet or electricity, but you don't have to pay for accommodation.
A successful trip requires good equipment, comfortable shoes and an adequate supply of water. It is also important to consider the weather, as temperatures can be quite low in the mountains. It is also recommended to study the trail map in advance and have navigation aids with you.
What is the correct way to navigate on the trail?
The standard markings on the Lycian Trail are a red and white rectangle that is painted on rocks, trees, posts or fences. The distance between markers is usually about 80 meters. In some places where the trail starts to turn and curve, many hikers make pyramids of stones. If you see such, you are on the right path.
You may also see a red arrow that indicates the direction of the turn.
Sometimes there is confusion in the route because of locals who put false markers. They reroute the trail so that it passes by their cafes or rented accommodation. False trails and roads are often marked with a red cross, which is complemented by a plain rectangle indicating the correct direction.
At important intersections and exits from villages, you may see yellow signs indicating the direction of travel, the next destination and the distance to it in kilometers.
The main stages of the journey
The start of the route is within the city limits of Antalya and can be reached either by bus or cab. The city offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels to hostels, making it a convenient starting point. The starting point can be reached either by bus or cab. The path winds through many picturesque villages and natural attractions.
Travelers can expect varied terrain, from mountainous areas with stunning views to well-maintained paths along the coastline.
An important part of any journey is places to stop, and the Lycian Trail offers many opportunities in this regard. There are campgrounds along the trail that are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. These range from simple sites with the ability to pitch a tent to developed campsites with access to showers and restrooms.
Camping sites offer a unique opportunity to enjoy a night under the stars, by the fire, listening to the sounds of nature around you. Cozy campgrounds are designed for travelers to recuperate, enjoy quiet moments by the water or on lawns.
Many of these places are located in picturesque bays or at the foot of mountains. This provides an opportunity not only to relax, but also to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding scenery. Such a vacation allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of nature and make each stop an important part of the journey.
At certain places along the trail, you can find small restaurants and cafes that offer local cuisine. This will diversify your vacation and make it more exciting. Stops at such places offer a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions and customs of the region.
Places to visit
Literally every step of the way, there are places of interest such as ancient ruins, secluded coves and delightful beaches. For example, on the Antalya to Olympos leg, you can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Olympos and enjoy a beach with crystal clear waters. It is located on the two banks of an unnamed river south of Cirala. The ruins occupy a vast area overgrown with trees. Here you can see a small amphitheater, the walls of the bishop's palace and other structures.
A visit to the ancient city of Simena is an exciting journey into the past, which will leave unforgettable impressions. The town, founded in ancient times, offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape from the fortress perched on a hill. The fortress, well preserved to this day, allows you to feel the atmosphere of antiquity and see how skillfully the defenses were built.
One of the main attractions of Simena is the Lycian cemetery, replete with impressive tombs that were carved into the rocks by the locals. These ancient monuments bear witness to the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Special attention should be paid to the most notable tomb, located under a mountain and partially submerged by sea water. It creates a mesmerizing and mystical view as the ruins blend into the beautiful sea panorama. This part of Simena becomes not only a historical, but also a picturesque place where you can take great photos to remember. Every element of this ancient city tells its own story, and traveling through its streets opens a window into ancient culture and traditions.
Also worth seeing along the way is the ancient city of Myra Lycia, which is a true treasure trove of history. According to legend, St. Nicholas, who became the prototype of modern Santa Claus, preached here in the IV century, which gives the city a special significance.
Mira has preserved an impressive amphitheater that once served as a gathering place for spectacles and cultural events. In addition, the surrounding area is home to magnificent rock-cut tombs that impress with their architectural sophistication and historical heritage. Walking through these ancient streets, you can feel the atmosphere of ancient times and touch important moments of history.
You can visit the Gainuk Canyon, which impresses with its grandeur: the high cliffs create a stunning contrast to the emerald water flowing below. Here you can enjoy not only magnificent scenery, but also an amazing variety of flora and fauna. This makes this place a true paradise for nature lovers.
On the trail you can find many picturesque beaches that attract vacationers with their unique charm. The beaches located in villages and towns are well equipped: here you can find comfortable sun beds, clean toilets and convenient changing rooms. Along these beaches there are often cozy cafes where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and local cuisine while watching the sea waves.
Wild beaches are characterized by the absence of civilization and amenities, but their extraordinary natural beauty, cleanliness and privacy create an atmosphere of harmony with nature. Such corners are ideal for those who seek privacy and want to enjoy the splendor of the surrounding world away from the bustle of the city.
The final point of the route is the city of Fethiye, which charms travelers with its breathtaking scenery and rich historical heritage. One of the most famous attractions is Oludeniz Bay, famous for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear water. There are also opportunities for paragliding, which attracts extreme sportsmen from all over the world.
It is worth visiting Fethiye Fortress, located on a hill. From here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea and learn more about the military history of the region. The combination of nature and historical monuments makes Fethiye an unforgettable place to explore and relax.
The Lycian Trail is not just a hike, it is a real adventure that leaves an unforgettable experience. By walking this route, you will be able to enjoy not only the magnificent nature and history, but also feel connected to the unique culture of the region. This trip will allow you to discover new horizons and get a lot of positive emotions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the first thing I need to take on the Lycian Trail hike?
You should take comfortable shoes, light and durable clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Sun protection and drinking water containers should not be forgotten. You should also bring light snacks to keep your energy up, a map or GPS device and a first aid kit with basic medications.
What are some of the challenges of hiking the Lycian Trail?
The trail includes both easy and difficult sections with steep ascents and descents, so it is important to have good physical fitness. There is also a risk of getting lost, you need to be able to keep track of the trail. You need to be prepared for lack of water, and also consider the limited availability of medical care in remote areas.
Which section of the Lycian Trail should a beginner start hiking?
Beginners are advised to start with the section that runs from Oludeniz to Kirbel, as it is considered easier and more scenic. This section offers great views of the coast and is suitable for people with different fitness levels. It is also convenient for accessing other amenities such as hotels and restaurants, which is suitable for a first time hiking experience.
What is the most unusual "guide" you can encounter on the Lycian Trail?
On the trail, you can meet locals who tell entertaining stories and legends about their ancestors. They are real "living guides" who share not only knowledge about the trail, but also about the culture and traditions of the region.
What smells accompany a journey along the Lycian Trail?
The aromas of conifers, the freshness of the sea breeze, spices from local dishes and flowers such as lavender and rose create a unique atmosphere. All of this makes a walk along the trail an exquisite adventure.
Are permits required and are there any paid sections?
No permit is required to walk the Lycian Trail. However, there may be a fee to enter certain archaeological areas (e.g. ruins of ancient cities). You should only pitch your tent outside protected areas and town beaches, open fires are forbidden in the forest - use a gas burner.
Where to get water on the way?
There are springs and wells in villages and near springs, but some of them dry up in summer. Plan a reserve of 2-3 liters per person (more on ascents), use a filter or tablets for disinfection and mark replenishment points on the map in advance.
Where to spend the night - camping or lodging?
Along the trail there are campsites and guesthouses/guesthouses in populated areas (e.g. Cıralı, Adrasan, Kash, Kalkan, Demre, etc.). In high season it is better to book in advance. Wild parking is allowed where it is not prohibited; observe the principle of "leave no trace".
How to get to the start and return from the route?
Antalya and Fethiye are convenient entry points: there are flights and intercity buses. Further villages and sections are connected by dolmushas, cabs and shuttles; boat cabs are possible on the section around Kekova. For linear hikes, consider the exit from the finish line in advance.
How safe is it and what about animals/dogs?
The route is generally safe; the main risks are heat, dehydration and breakdowns on rocky sections. Snakes and scorpions avoid humans; wear closed toed shoes and check your parking spot. Herding dogs go around calmly, do not wave sticks. Take out insurance, tell your loved ones your route plan and call 112 in an emergency.
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