The Lycian Way is 540 km long and you will need around 29-30 days to walk it.

The route curves around the coastline in South Turkey and offers:

– a scenic route between the mountains and the coast

– old Roman roads and offbeaten paths

– some steep parts but with enough resting points

– local transport connection so you don’t have to walk all the way

About the route

The name of the route comes from the ancient name of this part of Anatolia – Lycia. The route was explored and marked by the Turkish-British non-professional historian Kate Clow in 1999. Since then, thousands of hikers have been following it every year and it has gained international popularity.

The coast is far from the major resorts, so you have great blue waters to swim or go kayaking. You’ll also pass through pine forests, mountain peaks, ancient ruins.

Start: Oludeniz (near Turkish resort Fethiye)

End: Geyikbayiri (20 km from Turkish resort Antalya) – the trail can be walked in both directions

Where to stay on the route: You can sleep in village guest houses or small hotels along the way. There are camping areas available, too.

What to eat: You can find groceries and shops in the villages along the way but sometimes the prices are unreasonably high.

Best time to do it: February – April or September – November. Summer is scorching.

Route marks: red and white stripes but have in mind that in many places the marks are poor and you’ll need a map and compass.

Self-guided routes and various options for the route here.

Photos: flickr/sunriseOdyssey

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