The Lycian Way: Coastal Hiking Trail from Fethiye to Antalya
The Lycian Way is a legendary long distance trekking trail stretching over 500 kilometers (310 miles) along Turkey’s southwestern coast. This path guides outdoor adventurers through a diverse landscape, taking them through the ancient ruins of Lycia, mountain ridges and Mediterranean coves.
Highlights of the Lycian Way
Scenic Landscapes & Coastal Trails
The trail follows a route along olive groves, pine forests and alpine meadows. Every day is a new panorama and each bay is a new chance to enjoy the Mediterranean sea.
Winding along the scenic Turquoise Coast, the trail reveals unforgettable panoramic sea views.
Archaeological Treasures of Lycia
Unlike typical wilderness trails, the Lycian Way is an open air museum. Hikers regularly walk through ancient ruins including Xanthos and Patara, the democratic capitals of the historic Lycian League. Travelers can visit the ruins from both the Classical Age and the Roman Empire.
Village Hospitality & Local Flavors
The trail connects a series of remote, traditional Turkish hamlets. Local villagers welcome trekkers, providing homestay accommodations and serving up home cooked Turkish meals prepared with fresh produce, local honey and olive oil.
A Terrain for Every Explorer
From casual day hikers to seasoned backpackers aiming for a multi week hike, the trail accommodates varying skill levels. You can split the route into custom 4 to 7 day itineraries. One of the most popular programs is the iconic opening stretch from Fethiye to Kas. Along this route, there are many opportunities to drop your pack and swim in secluded coves. This opening stretch of the Lycian Way is our recommendation for those visiting the region for the first time. You can stay overnight in Fethiye or Oludeniz before an early morning start. The first week offers a wide variety of easy paths, rocky terrain, beautiful views of the coastline and secluded beaches.
Location & Climate
The Lycian Way begins near the popular resort area of Oludeniz and travels eastward across the coastline to the borders of Antalya, which is situated roughly 200 kilometers (125 miles) away via the main highway. Antalya features an international airport providing daily connections to Istanbul.
Seasonal Weather Guidelines:
- Spring & Autumn: The absolute best windows for trekking. Expect pleasantly warm, sunny skies with average daytime temperatures sitting comfortably between 65°F and 79°F (18°C and 26°C).
- Summer: Extremely hot and physically demanding. Temperatures spike between 86°F and 104°F (30°C and 40°C), making strenuous mountain ascents dangerous without heavy hydration.
- Winter: The region receives its highest rainfall and temperatures dip down to 43°F and 54°F (6°C and 12°C). Mountain sections can experience freezing conditions and unpredictable snow, requiring specialized gear.
The historical footpaths directly link several ancient mountain settlements and coastal harbors.