Lycian Way Trail: Hike Turkey’s Ancient Coast (13 Best Route)

I’ll never forget the feeling of awe as I first set foot on the Lycian Way trail. The sun was warm on my skin, the scent of pine needles filled the air, and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean shimmered in the distance. Once walked by Lycian kings and warriors, this ancient path in Turkey was about to become my home for the next few weeks.

Join me as I share my experiences and guide you through the wonders of this incredible trek.

Why Choose the Lycian Way? History, Nature & Adventure Await!

Let me guide you along the Lycian Way trail, one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. In this way, you must expect to see many natural and ancient beauties. While learning the culture of Yörük people, you’ll also feed your bellies with tasty Turkish foods.

Before we embark on this journey, let’s consult a Lycian Way guide for some essential information about the Lycian Way trail. The Lycian Way was founded by an amateur historian, Kate Clow, in 1999. The road is 520 km/320 mi, starting in Hisarönü (Muğla/Fethiye) and ending in Geyikbayırı (Antalya/Konyaaltı).

Simply put, it’s a long-distance walk that covers the entire Teke Peninsula. The name “Teke” comes from the first Turk tribe that started to live in the area, and today, it’s still called the Teke Peninsula. Many shepherds you will meet in the mountains are Yörük, who come from this Teke tribe.

So, why did Kate Clow call the road “Lycian Way” instead of “Teke Way”? It’s because in ancient times the area was known as Lycia, which means the “land of light”, in the Luwian language.

Lycians are the local people of Anatolia; even though the ancient historian Herodot claims Lycians came to Anatolia from Crete, the information from Hittite and Egyptian writings they are mentioned as “Lukka” or “Lukki”.

Lycians are known for their three things: their fantastic ability to cut marble like cheese, necropolises that spread within the cities, and fearless warriors. From the written evidence found, they indeed fought with the Hittites against Egypt in the Battle of Kadesh War and with the Trojans in the Trojan War. It can be said that they were brave people who protected Anatolia against any danger. If you want to know more about Lycians, you can visit the Lycian Union Museum in Demre, which is already on the Lycian Way trail.

Before discussing the routes, let’s briefly examine the Lycian Union (Lycian League). The region’s cities founded the Lycian Union in the 1st century BC. This union is the first democratic union in history and has been a source of inspiration for today’s democratic systems. Cities had 1, 2 or 3 votes depending on their size and population. While large port cities had three voting rights, several small towns could unite and have one voting right.

Based on current information, the union consists of 23 cities; however, historians say the number is probably higher. The most important cities of the Lycian Union are Patara, Xanthos, Pınara, Olympos, Myra, Tlos, and Phaselis. The parliament building in Patara, the union’s capital, awaits its visitors with its outstanding restoration.

Lycian Way Trail: Hike Through Ancient Forests & Hidden Valleys

Kabak to Alınca: A Hike Through Pine Forests and Mountain Vistas

If I had a chance to go back to Lycian Way, and I could only choose one route to walk, yes, 100%, this route would be my choice! I know that it sounds very assertive, but whenever I think about my experience on Lycian Way, I find myself most peaceful on this route.

Let me explain why: this route contains a good amount of elevation, with incredible forest views, where you feel like you’re a mountain goat. Especially between the grave of Mrs Fatma Özdemir (a shepherd who died while working in the region) and Alınca Village, the landscape looks like a painting, and a holy feeling touches your heart. If you are a nature enthusiast, I highly recommend you walk this path.

Gökçeören to Çukurbağ: Discover the Ruins of Phellos & Hacıoğlan Stream

This route is one of the longest routes of the Lycian Way, with its 22 km distance. However, you don’t recognise how long the road is because of its beautiful nature. The forests get bigger with every elevation, especially when you’re starting to go up. A calming stream (Hacıoğlan) and impressive ancient ruins (Phellos) are also waiting for you on this route.

Lycian Way Trail: Coastal Treks with Stunning Mediterranean Views

Ölüdeniz to Faralya: Postcard-Perfect Views of the Turquoise Coast

Yes, I know this is the most famous road on the Lycian Way, and you may be expecting more unknown routes. But this route literally deserves its popularity! It shows you how lovely and tiring the Lycian Way is, like a trailer of what you’ll see along the way. You’ll be amazed by postcard views, which will give you the power to take one step more and see the view from a broader perspective.

Çukurbağ to Kaş: Hike to the Sleeping Giant & Explore Antiphellos

Welcome to the route of the Sleeping Giant myth… This giant is known as the common myth of Kaş and Meis Island. According to myth, the male giant sleeps on Kaş, and the female giant sleeps on the island of Meis. When the waters rise, these two giants will meet each other…

We heard the myth from 3 secondary school students doing their literature homework in Kaş. Leaving the legend aside, I can say that you will be fascinated when looking at Kaş from above. As you descend carefully and slowly, you will have the chance to enjoy this wonderful sea view more. And please don’t forget to visit Antiphellos at sundown!

Karaöz to Adrasan: Forests, Beaches & the Gelidonya Lighthouse

This route is where you’ll get the most beautiful forest and sea views. First, Korsan Koyu (Pirate Bay) will meet you. I strongly recommend swimming in this sea, like an aquarium. After the bay, you’ll enter the Beydağları Natural Park, giving you unique untouched forests.

One of the most beautiful spots this route offers is undoubtedly Gelidonya Lighthouse. After 8 km walking from Karaöz, you’ll arrive at the lighthouse.  When you go up from the lighthouse to Markiz Hill, you will reach a perfect viewing point to see the Beşadalar (5 islands) and the lighthouse. Further, Suluada (Sulu Island) will await you along the road. Until Gavurharman, you’ll climb and climb and climb… with amazing forest paths and sea views next to you.

The only problem with this route is that there is no water after the bay to a farm called Deve Çiftliği. If you want to do the whole route in one day, you really need to take enough water with you. When you arrive at Adrasan, I strongly suggest you also visit the Adrasan Castle (Kız Kalesi) ruins, which are not on the Lycian Way but are totally worth seeing and very close to the trail.

Lycian Way Trail: Best Campsites Under the Stars

Sidyma: Camp Among the Ruins of a Living Ancient City

If you choose to do the Alınca – Sidyma route after reaching Alınca, you’ll have a chance to stay in a mystic atmosphere in an ancient city. What makes her most unique is that civilization and life still exist in the ancient city.

You will see ancient stones being used by people in new homes. You will be surprised that the stone left over from the pagan belief period is used in constructing the mosque. Next to the sarcophagus, you will feel like a Lycian during the night you spend here. I recommend you visit the ancient city and ask the village people about it. There are many things worth seeing in this city, which was left to its fate only after a rescue excavation.

Belos: Reach New Heights & Explore a Mountaintop City

Between the two cities, Demre and Finike, you will not merely walk up to 1800 meters above sea level and reach the second highest point of the Lycian Way trail. Still, you will also have amazing views from the mountain ridge to both cities and all the way down to Kumluca. This scenic background gives the environment to the ancient town of Bellos.

Arriving there after a long day of walking, with plenty of sources of water on the way, one can pitch a tent knowing that one just became master of one of the roughest and least walked parts of the trail. When the giant burning orb in the sky turns red and slowly goes to bed in the azure sea before Demre, the accomplished hiker will witness this stunning showcase of nature nestled in the tent between ancient ruins that almost seem to touch the heavens.

Gelidonya Lighthouse: Camp Under the Stars with Panoramic Views

Most of the hikers chose to finish Karaöz – Adrasan in one day, which I didn’t, and I was thrilled with my decision. Staying in a breathtaking view illuminated by the lighthouse and the stars is a wonderful experience to be witnessed. When you take your head out of your tent and look at the night sky, you will understand the magic of this place.

Lycian Way Trail: Discover Lost Cities and Secret Ruins

Delikkemer: Walk a Roman Aqueduct with Stunning Views

After you visit Patara, you’ll have two route choices to go Kalkan; to see the aqueduct which brings water to Patara, you must follow the Delikkemer route. If you choose this route, you will be amazed once again by the engineering intelligence of the Romans and will have a chance to walk on an aqueduct (try not to fall!).

Phellos: Uncover the Mysteries of a Hidden Lycian City

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An ancient place that comes out of nowhere… Phellos is guessed as the central city that Antiphellos served as a port. Unfortunately, with the lack of archaeological evidence, the primary reason for the town’s use is still unknown. Phellosawaits you with its mysteries, where you will wonder what the Lycians were doing so high above sea level. This site is a hidden gem on the Lycian Way trail map.

Apollonia: Explore a Forgotten City with a Well-Preserved Castle

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This ancient city is not on the most preferred trail but a half-kilometre away. A wonderfully preserved cistern, castle, and structure whose construction reason is unknown are waiting for you in an area where, sadly, no excavation has been carried out so far. If you’re looking for a Lycian Way hiking tour that ventures off the beaten path, be sure to include Apollonia.

Aperlai: Hike to a Secluded Ancient Port City

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There are only two ways to get there: by boat or on foot, which makes the place very convenient. Aperlai is known as the port city of Apollonia and is famous for its mureks, like Andriake and Phaselis. This ancient city, part of which is underwater, literally deserves to be seen. You can find Aperlai marked on a detailed Lycian Way trail map.

Alakilise: Find the Remains of the Church of the Angel Gabriel

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The remains of a sacred place among the forests—the Church of the Angel Gabriel—are standing there with only one wall and need to be seen before it disappears completely.

Is this all that the Lycian Way offers? Of course not! If you’re starting your Lycian Way from Antalya, be sure to check a Lycian Way map to plan your route effectively. Even though it will be difficult for you to return to city life after walking the Lycian Way, I hope you enjoy the nature of the Mediterranean.

The Lycian Way trail is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through time, a tapestry woven from ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of its rugged paths, the allure of its hidden ruins, or the tranquillity of its turquoise coastline, the Lycian Way offers an experience that will stay with you long after you take your final step. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of this ancient trail.