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THE WESTERN LYCIAN WAY - HIKING
BETWEEN MYTH AND SEA
THE WESTERN LYCIAN WAY - HIKING BETWEEN MYTH AND SEA
Discover the untamed beauty of the Lycian coast!
This section of Turkey’s most famous long-distance trail takes you through one of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes – rich in contrast, history, and natural wonders.
From Fethiye to Patara – a journey through time and nature
Your hike begins in Fethiye, a lively coastal town with a maritime spirit, and leads you along scenic paths to the pristine beach of Patara. At the journey’s end, you’ll reach one of Turkey’s most stunning stretches of sand – 12 km of golden beach, protected as a nesting ground for sea turtles and rare bird species.
Hiking with a view
High above the sea, narrow trails offer spectacular panoramas of the turquoise coastline and the towering peaks of the Taurus Mountains, reaching up to 3,000 m. The dramatic cliffs near Alınca are especially awe-inspiring – a place that leaves you speechless
Cultural landscapes & Mediterranean diversity
In the hinterland, you’ll walk through pine forests, olive groves, and fragrant maquis. Ancient aqueducts line your path, and the ruins of Patara and Xanthos bear witness to the legacy of the Lycian civilization – history you can feel beneath your feet.
TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Lycia
Arrival by flight to Dalaman or Antalya. Transfer to your accommodation in Fethiye – time to settle in and get ready for the days ahead.
Day 2: From Ovacık to Faralya
After breakfast, a short transfer takes you to the trailhead in Ovacık. Right from the start, you’re treated to one of the most stunning views on the Lycian Way: the mighty Babadag (2,000 m) on one side, and the turquoise bay of Ölüdeniz on the other. You pass through two charming villages before reaching Faralya. WT: approx. 4.5 hrs
Day 3: From Faralya to Alınca
The hike begins at your guesthouse. You walk through Faralya and enjoy sweeping views of Kabak Bay. You can descend to the beach for a swim and refreshment, or take the mountain route around the bay. The day ends in the remote mountain village of Alınca. WT: approx. 5 hrs
Day 4: From Alınca to Bel
A steep descent leads you toward Sancaklı Bay with breathtaking coastal views. After a break in the village of Gey, you continue through dramatic coastal landscapes to the village of Bel. Overnight in Bel or Patara. WT: approx. 5 hrs
Day 5: From Bel to Karadere
You hike through fields and pine forests before descending to the semi-abandoned village of Gavurağili. A final climb brings you to a pass with panoramic views of Patara Beach. On the way down to the sea, you pass the ruins of Pydnai – once a Lycian watchtower. Short transfer to Patara. Walking time: approx. 5 hrs
Day 6: From Akbel to Patara
Today’s hike follows ancient Lycian engineering. After a short transfer to Akbel, you reach the historic aqueduct and follow it – sometimes even walking inside it! At Delikkemer, you’ll see where the Lycians once transported water via a pressurized pipe system. The trail continues to the ancient city of Patara, birthplace of Saint Nicholas.
WT: approx. 4 hrs
Day 7: From Üzümlü to Çavdır
A short transfer takes you to Üzümlü. The trail leads through villages along the edge of the Kınık Plain, past historical landmarks. You follow the aqueduct of Xanthos, which still carries water today. At the end of the hike, you can visit the ruins of Xanthos – once the Lycian capital. WT: approx. 4 hrs
Day 8: Farewell to Lycia
Transfer to the airport (Dalaman or Antalya) and return flight – with unforgettable memories and maybe a touch of wanderlust.
SERVICES
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7 nights in rooms with private shower/WC, including breakfast
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6 dinners (Days 2–7)
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5 packed lunches + 1.5 L water (Days 3–7)
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All transfers as per itinerary
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Luggage transport between accommodations
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Digital route descriptions and map
TRAVEL TIME/TOUR DATES
Daily departures available during the following periods:
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Early March to late May
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Early September to mid-November
Tours operate with a minimum of 1 participant.
Additional nights can be booked at any location – please request when booking.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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Starting point: Fethiye
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Ending point: Gelemis/Patara
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Arrival airport: Dalaman (Antalya available for an extra fee; transfer time approx. 3.5 hrs)
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Well-marked hiking trails, often with rocky or uneven terrain.
Daily walking times range from 4.5 to 6 hours.
Maximum ascent: 475 m | Maximum descent: 620 m
Optional descent of 820 m on Day 6.
INQUIRY
