Scan the QR code on the left or click on it to check our legality.
selfguidedwalking.com is a brand of Caria Pan Travel
LYCIAN WAY - HIKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT
LYCIAN WAY – HIKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ALEXANDER THE GREAT
Walk the same ancient paths once used by Alexander the Great during his legendary campaigns—and discover the wild beauty of Lycia. Stretching 509 km from Fethiye to Antalya, the Lycian Way is one of Turkey’s most stunning long-distance hiking trails.
You decide whether to spend one or two weeks exploring—at your own pace, with plenty of time to soak in the history and nature.
Nature & Scenery
The trail winds through dramatic landscapes shaped by the Taurus Mountains, dense forests, hidden coves, and ancient ruins. You’ll pass through peaceful mountain villages at around 800 m elevation and breathe in the fresh, clean air of the Lycian highlands.
Coastal Walks & Sea Turtles
Along the coast, you’ll reach the sandy bay of Patara - a protected nesting site for sea turtles. This stretch combines turquoise waters with untouched nature, offering unforgettable views and moments of serenity.
Culture & History
Cultural highlights include the ancient city of Phellos, the birthplace of Saint Nicholas, and the famous rock tombs of Myra. These sites tell stories of a rich past and invite you to step into the world of the Lycians.
A Relaxing Finish by the Sea
Your journey ends at the turquoise Cavus Bay near Adrasan. Here, you can swim, relax, or set out on more hikes and excursions in the breathtaking surroundings.
TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Turkey
You’ll arrive at Antalya or Dalaman Airport. From there, it’s about a 45-minute transfer to your hotel in Fethiye.
Day 2: Ovacık – Faralya
After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to the starting point of your hike in Ovacık. Right from the beginning, you’ll enjoy stunning views: the 2,000 m high Babadag mountain on one side, the bay of Ölüdeniz on the other. You’ll pass through two charming villages before reaching Faralya in the afternoon. Overnight in a family-run guesthouse. WT: approx. 4 hrs.
Day 3: Faralya – Alınca
You start directly from your accommodation and hike through Faralya with views of Kabak Bay. You have two options: descend to the sea for a swim and a bite to eat, or take the mountain route and circle the bay from above. At the end of the day, you’ll arrive in the mountain village of Alınca. Overnight in a simple but lovingly run guesthouse. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 4: Alınca – Bel
From your guesthouse, the trail leads steeply down to Sancaklı Bay with spectacular coastal views. You’ll reach the village of Gey – perfect for a break. Then continue along the coast to the village of Bel. In the evening, you’ll be transferred to Patara for your overnight stay. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 5: Bel – Karadere
After breakfast, you’ll return to Bel to begin your hike. You’ll walk along country paths and then descend steeply toward the sea – with breathtaking views. The trail then climbs to a pass overlooking the 16 km-long Patara Beach. At the end of the day, you can swim at Karadere Beach before being transferred back to your guesthouse in Patara. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 6: Akbel – Patara
A short transfer takes you to Akbel. You’ll hike along Patara’s ancient aqueduct to Delikkemer, where the Lycians once transported water through a pressurized pipe system. You’ll then reach the ancient city of Patara – once home to Saint Nicholas. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 7: Üzümlü – Çavdır
After a short transfer, your hike begins again in Akbel. You’ll head inland, passing small villages. Just before Çayköy, you’ll reach a stream at the start of the Xanthos aqueduct, still used today. After the village, the trail leads over ancient bridges to Çavdır. From there, you’ll be picked up and taken to Xanthos for a visit. Overnight in Kalkan. WT: approx. 3, 5 hrs.
Day 8: Gökçeören – Çukurbağ
Transfer to Gökçeören (approx. 45 min). You’ll hike along a streambed to a small alpine meadow with views of the Taurus Mountains. On a mountain pass, you’ll visit the hidden ruins of the ancient cult city of Phellos. After descending, you’ll reach the village of Çukurbağ. A short transfer takes you to Kaş. Overnight in Kaş. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 9: Karabelen – Boğazcık
A short transfer brings you to Bayındır. You’ll hike into a small bay and continue over a hill with constant sea views. There are several spots for a refreshing swim. The trail follows the coast to the next bay and then climbs past rock-cut sarcophagi to the village of Boğazcık. From there, a short transfer takes you to Üçağız. Overnight in a guesthouse. WT: approx. 4, 5 hrs.
Day 10: Boğazcık – Apollonia – Üçağız
Transfer to Sahilkilinçli (approx. 30 min). The hike begins above the village. A detour to the ancient city of Apollonia is well worth it. You’ll then hike to the narrowest point of the Sıcak Peninsula – with a chance to swim. You’ll pass through the ruins of Aperlae and follow the rocky coastline to Üçağız. Overnight in your accommodation. WT: approx. 5 hrs.
INQUIRY
Day 11: Üçağız – Çayağzı
Today’s hike begins right at your guesthouse. A short detour takes you to the ancient castle of Simena—well worth it for the stunning views. You’ll then hike through the small village of Alan to Kapaklı Bay, where a swim in the sea awaits. The trail continues to Çayağzı, once the harbor of the ancient Lycians. It’s worth visiting the ruins of Andriake here. Afterwards, you’ll explore the famous rock tombs of Myra before heading to Karaöz. Overnight in Karaöz, in accommodation close to the beach. WT: approx. 5, 5 hrs.
Day 12: Adrasan – Gelidonya Lighthouse – Adrasan
A short 20-minute transfer takes you to the trailhead. You’ll ascend to the Gelidonya Lighthouse, then continue along the coastal path with breathtaking views all the way to Adrasan. This is one of the most iconic sections of the Lycian Way. Overnight in Adrasan at a comfortable hotel. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 13: Adrasan – Çıralı
Today’s hike begins on the Adrasan plain. You’ll climb through forests of strawberry trees and laurel to the summit of Musa Mountain, where a rest with panoramic views awaits. The descent leads through dense forest to the ruins of one of the Lycian civilization’s major cities. After exploring the site, you’ll enjoy a scenic beach walk to Çıralı. Overnight in Çıralı at your accommodation. WT: approx. 6 hrs.
Day 14: Ulupınar – Çıralı
A short transfer takes you to Ulupınar. Today’s hike is more relaxed. You’ll start at a trout farm, then descend to a stream you’ll need to cross - often barefoot through refreshing water. After a short climb to a pass, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Çıralı Bay. The trail then descends to the Eternal Flames of the Chimera. A gentle path leads you back to your beachside accommodation. WT: approx. 3, 5 hrs.
Day 15: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Antalya Airport for your flight home.
SERVICES
-
7 or 14 nights in small guesthouses with private shower/WC, including half board
-
6 or 14 picnic lunches (Day 2–7 or Day 2–14)
-
All transfers according to the itinerary
-
Digital way description and map
TRAVEL TIME/TOUR DATES
Daily arrivals during the periods below:
1st of March until end of May
15th of September until end of November
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Start: Fethiye
Finish: Antalya
Arrival destination: Flight to Antalya, return from Antalya
Required number of people: 1
Extensions: everywhere, but has to booked in advance
DIFFICULTY LEVEL OF THE TOUR
Well-marked hiking trail, often with rocky and/or stony terrain.
Daily walking times of 4.5-6 hours.
Longest ascent 950 m, longest descent 950 m.
