Lycian Way

Lycian Way

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Overview

Walk one of the Mediterranean's great coastal trails along the turquoise shores of southern Turkey. The Lycian Way follows the coastline between Ölüdeniz and Antalya, tracing clifftop paths high above the sea, dropping through pine forests, and passing ancient ruins that most visitors to this part of the world never find.

The views are extraordinary: some of the bluest water anywhere, framed by landscapes that have barely changed in a thousand years. Lycian ruins appear again and again along the way, giving every day on the trail a real sense of history underfoot.



The Lycian Way experience

Wonder
Walk the Lycian Way above the brilliant blue Oludeniz lagoon and along the Turquoise Coast
Discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of Xanthos, one of the great cities of the ancient Lycian civilisation
Walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks and Romans through sites that have stood for over two thousand years
Wellness
Stay in small family-run accommodations in authentic Turkish villages away from the tourist trail
The Western Lycian Way is considered the most scenic section of Turkey's first long-distance trail
Walking pace allows genuine engagement with the coast, the culture, and the communities along the route
Nature
Pine-scented forests, rugged coastal cliffs, and hidden beaches along the Mediterranean Turquoise Coast
The route passes through the Butterfly Valley and above the famous blue lagoon at Oludeniz
The Bay of Oludeniz, enclosed by mountains on three sides, is one of the most photographed bays in the world
Coming soon
Local recommendations are coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

A daypack with water, snacks, sun protection and your walk notes. On both Lycian Way walks, the terrain is rocky and uneven, so walking poles and boots with good ankle support are strongly recommended — the East section is particularly mountainous. Cappadocia's trails are gentler and flatter, where good walking shoes with cushioning are sufficient.

It depends on the walk. Both Lycian Way itineraries are graded moderate, with above-average elevation — the East in particular involves more sustained climbing through mountain and forested terrain. Building hill fitness before you go makes a real difference. Cappadocia is graded easy to moderate on flatter terrain and suits a wider range of walkers.

Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country and modest dress is appreciated when visiting mosques and religious sites — shoulders and knees covered. Remove your shoes before entering a mosque. Outside of religious sites the dress code is relaxed, though in the smaller villages conservative dress is respectful. Turks are famously warm and hospitable — a simple greeting in Turkish goes a long way.

Yes, and it's a condition of booking for all three walks. Your policy must cover injury, trip cancellation, luggage loss and medical evacuation. Never pack your passport in your main luggage.

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