Lycian Way – Butterfly Valley to Kabak

The Lycian Way segment from Butterfly Valley to Kabak follows 10 kilometres of dramatic clifftop coastline in the Fethiye district of Muğla, connecting the ancient plateau village of Faralya — perched above Butterfly Valley — with the bohemian beach enclave of Kabak. The trailhead sits at Faralya village, itself accessible by dolmuş from Fethiye (approximately ₺35, under 30 minutes). Hiking boots are mandatory on this route; several sections pass within metres of unguarded cliff edges dropping hundreds of metres to the sea, and the exposed limestone underfoot demands secure footwear. No permit is required. The trail gains approximately 450 metres of cumulative elevation over numerous ascents and descents as it traverses the rugged limestone ridgeline between valleys. The coastal clifftop character of the walk means shade is limited for much of the route, and sea breezes, while cooling, can occasionally be strong. The path is blazed with Lycian Way red-and-white markers throughout. From Faralya, the initial section descends into a scrub-filled gully before climbing to the first major clifftop section with sweeping views of the Aegean. The trail then navigates a series of headlands with steep drops, passing wild thyme and pine scrub habitat. The descent into Kabak is steep and loose-surfaced, requiring care. Kabak valley itself is a pristine shingle beach with a handful of eco-camp guesthouses, reachable only on foot or by boat. A seasonal boat service connects Kabak Beach back to Ölüdeniz between May and October (approximately ₺200 per person), providing a logical return route. No water sources exist along the trail; hikers should carry at least 3 litres. An emergency whistle and basic first aid kit are recommended given the remote nature of the clifftop sections.