Sections of the 500km Lycian Way coastal trail through ancient Lycian ruins, dramatic cliff paths, and remote coves offer some of the Mediterranean's finest long-distance hiking. Day sections from Antalya are also popular.
The Lycian Way is a 540-kilometre waymarked long-distance trail tracing the ancient Lycian coastline from Ölüdeniz near Fethiye in the west to the suburbs of Antalya city in the east. Opened in 1999 by Kate Clow and subsequently designated one of the world's great walks by National Geographic Traveler, the route crosses the territories of more than two dozen ancient Lycian city-states — including Olympos, Phaselis, Patara, and Xanthos — linking coastal villages, sea capes, and archaeological ruins rarely reached by conventional tourism.
The eastern sections of the trail closest to Antalya, particularly the Olympos-to-Phaselis segment traversing the Beydağları Coastal National Park, rank among the most scenically and historically rewarding. This stretch climbs through dense cedar and pine forest before descending to ancient harbours and beach ruins. The route from Phaselis north towards Antalya follows dramatic cliff paths above the sea and reaches pebble coves little changed from antiquity. A complete thru-hike of the Lycian Way takes approximately 29 walking days, but the trail is specifically designed to be walked in segments.
Popular 2–5 day itineraries include Ölüdeniz to Kalkan, Kaş to Finike, and Finike to Antalya. Guesthouses and village pensions dot the route and can be reserved in advance by phone or through local booking platforms; wild camping is widely practised in the eastern sections through national park territory. Trail waymarks are red and white and well-maintained in most sections, though intermittent in remote areas; downloading the route GPX file and carrying the official guidebook is strongly recommended for self-guided walkers.
Guided tours with porters or pack animals are available through trekking agencies in Antalya and Kaş. The Lycian Way guidebook published by Upcountry Ltd contains GPS coordinates, natural water source locations, and accommodation listings and is the authoritative reference for planning any segment of the route.
Activity facts
- Where
- Lycian Way, Mediterranean coast, Antalya province
Highlights
- 540 km waymarked trail linking Ölüdeniz to Antalya through ancient Lycian city-states
- Olympos, Phaselis, Patara, and Xanthos ruins accessible directly from the trail
- Beydağları Coastal National Park cedar and pine forest above dramatic Mediterranean sea cliffs
- Self-guided or fully guided format available, from 2-day segments to 29-day thru-hikes
- Village pensions and camping for affordable overnight stays throughout the route
Tips for visiting
- Walk in spring (March–May) or autumn (October–November) — summer temperatures above 35°C make the exposed coastal sections gruelling
- Carry at least 2 litres of water capacity; natural springs are marked on the Lycian Way map but can dry up by August
- Download the route GPX track before departing — red-and-white waymarks can be faded in remote sections
- Book village pensions 2–3 nights ahead during Easter week and early October when international trekker numbers peak
- Pack lightweight ankle gaiters — the sharp limestone terrain on higher sections tests ankles even in dry conditions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide to walk the Lycian Way?
No. The route is suitable for experienced hikers carrying the official guidebook and a GPS track. Guided tours with local support and porter services are available for those who prefer them.
Where can walkers buy the official Lycian Way guidebook?
The guidebook by Kate Clow is available from Upcountry Ltd online and from outdoor retailers and bookshops in Antalya, Kaş, and Fethiye.
Is accommodation available along the entire route?
Accommodation density varies considerably. Popular western sections have guesthouses every 10–15 km. The eastern sections near Finike and Antalya are more remote, and camping may be the only option — plan overnight stops in advance.
How physically demanding is the trail?
Most sections average significant daily elevation gain over rough terrain. Participants should be comfortable with 5–8 hour hiking days carrying 8–12 kg packs across uneven limestone and rocky path surfaces.
Can the trail be done in short segments?
Yes. The trail is divided into logical segments accessible by public transport at each end. Popular short options include the 2-day Olympos-to-Phaselis section and the 3-day Kaş-to-Kalkan traverse.