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HIKING IN THE TAURUS MOUNTAINS

SAINT PAULS TRAIL – HIKING IN THE TAURUS MOUNTAINS

Follow in the footsteps of Apostle Paul through one of Turkey’s most untouched landscapes.
The Paulus Trail, Turkey’s second long-distance hiking route, leads you across the dramatic Taurus Mountains and up to the Anatolian plateau. Whether Paul actually walked this path on his first missionary journey remains uncertain – but what’s guaranteed is a truly immersive nature experience.

You’ll hike along ancient Roman roads and shepherd trails, with views of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain. Dense oak and pine forests, remote mountain pastures, and breathtaking vistas await you in Köprülü Canyon National Park, where the Köprü River has carved a gorge up to 100 m deep.

Crossing wide plateaus, you’ll reach traditional farming villages known for their warm hospitality. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient ruins and finally arrive at Lake Eğirdir – Turkey’s fourth-largest inland lake, shimmering in turquoise hues at the foot of the majestic Barla Mountains.

The Saint Pauls Trail is a journey through nature, history, and heartfelt encounters – a hike to remember.

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Antalya

Fly into Antalya and transfer to your accommodation in the charming old town.

Day 2: From Düzagac to Karabük

A scenic transfer takes you deep into the Taurus Mountains to the village of Düzagac. Hike through a dramatic gorge and several small villages that offer insight into mountain life. You’ll spend two nights in Karabük. WT: approx. 5 hrs

Day 3: Köprülü Canyon & Ancient Selge

After visiting the ancient theater of Selge, hike through the stunning Köprülü Canyon back to Beşkonak, with sweeping views of the rugged terrain. WT: approx. 4.5 hrs

Day 4: Tazi Canyon & Çaltepe Plateau

From Küvez, hike through pine forests and remote villages to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the canyon. Continue along shepherd trails to the Çaltepe plateau. WT: approx. 5.5 hrs

Day 5: From Kesmeköy to Kasımlar

Follow ancient Roman paths through a wild karst landscape with juniper forests, deep gorges, and cone-shaped rock formations. Enjoy views of the Sarp Mountains throughout. WT: approx. 5 hrs

Day 6: Ancient Adada & Lake Eğirdir

Hike across alpine pastures to the Roman city of Adada, nestled in a high valley. After exploring temples and the theater, transfer to Lake Eğirdir for a two-night stay. WT: approx. 4.5 hrs

Day 7: Kovada National Park

From Sipahiler, hike through fir and oak forests, across high plateaus with grazing animals, and down into the Kovada Valley via old trade routes. WT: approx. 5 hrs

Day 8: Departure or Extension

Transfer back to Antalya (approx. 2.5 hrs) for your flight home – or extend your stay in Eğirdir for more hiking adventures on your own.

SERVICES

  • 7 nights in rooms with private bathroom (shower/WC), including breakfast

  • 6 dinners (on days 2–7)

  • 5 picnic lunches (on days 3–7)

  • All transfers according to the itinerary

  • Luggage transport between accommodations

  • Detailed route descriptions

  • Hiking maps with marked trails

 

TRAVEL TIME/TOUR DATES

Daily departures available during the following periods:
Early April to mid-June
Early September to late October

Tours operate with a minimum of 1 participant

Additional nights can be booked at any location – please request when booking

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Starting point: Antalya

Ending point: Eğirdir

Arrival: Flight to Antalya

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

Moderate hikes with longer ascents and descents on mostly well-marked trails.
Some rocky terrain – surefootedness required.

Daily walking time: 4.5 to 6 hours

Ascents: 260–600 m

Descents: 200–650 m

INQUIRY

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Self-guided Hiking in Taurus Mountains - Hiking the footsteps of Apostle Paul
Hiking the Saint Pauls trail - View from the summit of Sivri Dag to the Lake of Egirdir
Individually in the Taurus Mountains on the footsteps of Saint Paul - Farmers woman in a mountain village
Fantastic rock formations at Kesmeköy Village on the Saint Pauls trail
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