The Lycian Way is the most famous long-distance hiking trail in Turkey and one of the world’s finest coastal walking routes. Stretching for around 540 kilometres between Fethiye and Antalya, it follows ancient paths once used by the Ancient Lycian civilisation, passing through spectacular mountain scenery, hidden beaches, traditional villages and some of Turkey’s most important archaeological sites.
Officially opened in 1999, the route largely follows old shepherds’ tracks, Roman roads and trading paths that connected the cities of Ancient Lycia more than 2,000 years ago. Today, it offers walkers the opportunity to experience not only some of Turkey’s most beautiful scenery but also the remarkable history of one of the Mediterranean’s oldest civilisations.
The trail begins near Fethiye before winding its way along the dramatic Turquoise Coast through Ölüdeniz, Butterfly Valley, Kabak, Patara, Kalkan, Kaş, Demre, Olympos and many smaller villages before reaching Antalya. Along the way, hikers encounter towering cliffs, pine forests, olive groves, mountain passes and breathtaking coastal viewpoints, with the blue Mediterranean rarely far from sight.
One of the route’s greatest attractions is the extraordinary concentration of ancient history. Walkers pass many of the region’s finest archaeological sites, including the ancient cities of Tlos, Xanthos, Patara, Myra, Olympos and Phaselis. Lycian rock tombs, Roman theatres, Byzantine churches and medieval castles appear throughout the journey, creating a unique combination of hiking and archaeology rarely found anywhere else in the world.
Although completing the entire Lycian Way usually takes around three to four weeks, most visitors choose to walk individual sections rather than the complete trail. Many of the most scenic stretches can be enjoyed as half-day or full-day hikes, making the route accessible even for travellers enjoying a traditional beach holiday.
The trail is generally well marked with the distinctive red and white painted waymarks, while guidebooks, maps and GPS routes make navigation relatively straightforward. Accommodation ranges from family-run guesthouses and boutique hotels to campsites and small pensions, allowing walkers to choose an itinerary that suits their experience and budget.
Highlights of the Lycian Way
Fethiye to Ölüdeniz
One of the most popular introductory sections, this walk climbs through pine forests before revealing magnificent views across Fethiye Bay and the famous Blue Lagoon at Ölüdeniz.
Butterfly Valley and Kabak
This spectacular coastal section passes high above towering cliffs with breathtaking views over Butterfly Valley before continuing towards the peaceful village of Kabak.
Patara and Xanthos
History lovers can combine walking with visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Xanthos and the magnificent ruins of Patara, once the principal harbour of Ancient Lycia.
Kaş to Kekova
One of the most scenic stretches follows the rugged coastline east of Kaş towards the beautiful bays and archaeological treasures of Kekova and the Sunken City.
Olympos and Çıralı
The eastern sections of the trail pass through fragrant pine forests to the ancient city of Olympos before reaching the beautiful beach at Çıralı, famous for its nesting loggerhead turtles and the eternal flames of Chimaera.
Do You Have to Walk the Entire Trail?
Absolutely not. While experienced hikers often complete the full route over several weeks, most visitors simply enjoy one or two sections during their holiday. Many of the most rewarding walks can be completed in just a few hours, making the Lycian Way accessible to casual walkers as well as serious long-distance hikers.
Visitor Tips
- The best seasons for walking are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are cooler.
- Summer can be extremely hot, particularly on exposed coastal sections.
- Carry plenty of drinking water, especially on remote parts of the trail.
- Good walking boots or sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.
- Download offline maps or carry a guidebook, particularly for longer sections.
More than simply a hiking trail, the Lycian Way is a journey through one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful and historically rich landscapes. Whether you walk for an hour, a day or several weeks, the route offers an unforgettable combination of dramatic scenery, ancient civilisation and genuine Turkish hospitality, making it one of the world’s great walking experiences.