Ölüdeniz · Faralya · Kabak · Patara · Kalkan · Kaş
Western Lycian Way
The western Lycian Way brings together coastal views, pine forests, villages and ancient cities in a single journey.
Explore this routeFROM FETHIYE TO ANTALYA
Lycian Way Routes
A distinctive walking experience through ancient paths, Mediterranean coves, villages and the Taurus Mountains.
TÜRKIYE’S FIRST LONG-DISTANCE WALKING TRAIL
Every section has its own character
The current official source describes the Lycian Way from Ölüdeniz to Geyikbayırı as a marked trail of approximately 760 kilometres . Following Roman roads, old footpaths and mule tracks, the route often crosses rocky ground and steep ascents.
Safaritrek presents the long route in four geographical sections to help you choose: Western Lycian Way, Central Lycian Way, Demre–Finike and Eastern Lycian Way. These are our guide categories for comparing regional character, rather than an official stage list.
Approximately 760 kmCurrent official trail lengthÖlüdeniz–GeyikbayırıStart and current endpointCoastal and mountain stagesVaried terrain and elevation
CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE
Four regions of the Lycian Way
Kaş · Aperlai · Üçağız · Simena / Kekova · Demre
Central Lycian Way
The coastal section between Kaş and Demre combines ancient paths, quiet coves and the layered history around Kekova.
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Demre · Alakilise and Alacadağ area · Finike
Demre–Finike
This more mountainous passage between Demre and Finike climbs away from the coast towards quiet trails around Alakilise and Alacadağ.
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Karaöz · Gelidonya · Adrasan · Olympos · Çıralı · Tahtalı / Phaselis · Göynük · Hisarçandır · Geyikbayırı
Eastern Lycian Way
The eastern Lycian Way has a distinctive character, stretching from Gelidonya Lighthouse to Olympos and Çıralı and onward into the higher passages of the Beydağları mountains.
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Which section suits you?
| Section | Distinctive character | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Western Lycian Way | Sea views, villages and ancient cities | Can be split into short stages for a first experience; steep passages remain. |
| Central Lycian Way | Coves, Aperlai, Üçağız and Kekova | Plan carefully for sun, water and coastal connections. |
| Demre–Finike | Quieter terrain and longer mountain passages | Fitness, water supplies and exit points are especially important. |
| Eastern Lycian Way | Gelidonya, Olympos and the Beydağları mountains | Coastal and high-mountain options require different preparation. |
THE LYCIAN WAY WITH SAFARITREK
Experience the trail, one day at a time
We plan daily stages, accommodation, necessary transfers and programme logistics together. Walking in small groups, we make time for ancient cities, villages, coves and the rhythm of the trail.
Sometimes on a path overlooking the sea, sometimes among the stones of an ancient Lycian city, sometimes in the silence of the Taurus Mountains… Every stage is different, and every step has its own story.
Before you set out
Stage conditions, markings, water sources, accommodation and access roads can change. Do not rely on an old blog post or a single GPS track; check current official notices, the weather and local information.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About the Lycian Way
How long is the Lycian Way?
The Culture Routes Society currently describes the marked trail from Ölüdeniz to Geyikbayırı as approximately 760 kilometres. Coastal and inland alternatives mean the total can vary with the track you follow.
When is the best time to walk the Lycian Way?
Spring and autumn are generally preferred. The official route source recommends February–May and September–November. Summer heat and water requirements can pose significant risks.
Is the Lycian Way suitable for beginners?
The route does not have a single difficulty level. Some short western stages can be easier to plan for a first trek, but rocky ground, steep climbs and descents, heat and pack weight still need to be considered.
Can I rely on the trail markings alone?
The Lycian Way has red-and-white markings, but maintenance, fires, roadworks and natural conditions can change the trail. Use current route notices, an offline map and local knowledge together.
Sources and current information
For trail length, main endpoints, recommended seasons and the usual stage sequence, we refer to the Culture Routes Society’s current Lycian Way page . Safaritrek prepared this regional overview to help visitors choose a route.