Lycian Way Trekking
Mapped, planned, and waymarked by Kate Clow in 1999, the Lycian Way is one of the most famous hiking and adventure routes. Stretching 540 km through southern Turkey, the path can be walked in about 29 days and offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Roman roads, ancient ruins, and winding trails lead trekkers across a breathtaking mix of coastline and rugged mountains, where steep ascents are a frequent challenge.
The often rocky and fragmented path draws you into the intense reality once lived by the ancient Lycians, whose civilization was enriched through the centuries by Roman and Byzantine influences. This trek does more than offer history: it lets adventurers walk in the footsteps of a proud and democratic people, renowned for their warrior spirit and quality of life. Here, you’ll literally follow the same ground traversed by Alexander the Great before the region became a Roman province.
The Lycian Way trek starts in Oludeniz, just two hours from Dalaman Airport, and finishes in Antalya. Along the way, you’ll be captivated by stunning Mediterranean scenery and ruins from Lycian and Roman times. Though highly challenging, the Lycian Way is a journey that lets you immerse yourself in both ancient and contemporary Turkish culture—testing your limits and inviting you to discover new ones.
Points of interest:
- Telmesso: Along the route, you can admire the ruins of Telmesso, including the famous Tomb of Amyntas.
- Letoon: This sanctuary near Xanthos was once one of Lycia’s main religious centers.
- Kas: Once a Lycian outpost, today Kas is a lively fishing village and tourist destination.
- Kekova: The island is known for the remains of the so-called “sunken city” from the Lycian period.
- Demre (now Kale): The ancient Myra, once the Roman capital of Asia Minor.
Quick facts:
- Country: Turkey
- Official website for the Lycian Way
- Length: 540 km
- GPX: n.a.
- KMZ: n.a.
