Imagine a trail that winds through pine-covered mountains overlooking the Mediterranean, passes ancient cities, and dips into secluded turquoise coves. The Lycian Way is not just a physical path—it’s a journey through time. Spanning over 500 kilometers along Turkey’s southern coast, it is the country’s first long-distance hiking route and one of the world’s most stunning trekking experiences.
In this guide, we’ll explore the Lycian Way in sections. But we’ll give the greatest attention to its crown jewel—the Demre and Kekova region, where nature, history, and myth intertwine in unforgettable harmony.
Overview of the Lycian Way
- Total Length: ~540 km
- Start Point: Fethiye (Ovacık)
- End Point: Antalya (Geyikbayırı)
- Average Duration: 25–40 days (for the full route)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
- Highlights: Ancient ruins, coastal views, traditional villages, historic trails, rich biodiversity
Section 1: Fethiye – Kabak – Alınca – Yediburunlar
The Lycian Way begins in Ovacık near Fethiye, leading hikers toward the hidden gem of Kabak Bay. This first stretch offers dramatic views from Mount Babadağ, crystal-clear beaches, and tranquil forest paths. Villages like Alınca and the Yediburunlar region offer panoramic sea and mountain views that set the tone for the journey.
Section 2: Patara – Kalkan – Kaş
This section features one of Lycia’s most significant port cities: Patara. Known for its golden 18-kilometer beach and grand Roman theatre, it’s a blend of history and relaxation. The trail continues to Kalkan’s charming stone houses and into Kaş, a lively coastal town ideal for diving and kayaking.
Section 3: Kaş – Üçağız – Kekova – Demre (The Heart of Lycia)
Now we arrive at the most enchanting and historically rich section of the Lycian Way. This is where the trail transforms into something truly special—not just a hike, but a full immersion into a lost civilization.
Kekova: Silence of a Sunken City
Kekova is both a natural marvel and an open-air museum. Here, you’ll find the partially submerged ruins of the ancient city of Simena, devastated by earthquakes in antiquity. Though boat tours are the most popular way to explore the sunken city, the hiking trail from Üçağız to Simena offers a peaceful and intimate alternative.
- Views from Simena Castle
- Ruins beneath crystal-clear waters
- Stone sarcophagi along quiet trails
- Charming rural life and home-cooked meals
Demre: Myra and the Legacy of Saint Nicholas
Demre is home to Myra, one of the great cities of ancient Lycia. Its rock-cut tombs and enormous theatre are awe-inspiring. The town is also closely associated with Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus), who lived here in the 4th century.
- Myra Ancient City
- Church of Saint Nicholas
- Andriake Harbor and the Museum of Lycian Civilizations
- Unspoiled beaches like Sülüklü Bay
The trails around Demre and Simena blend breathtaking landscapes with cultural depth. This stretch offers one of the most balanced combinations of scenery, mythology, and living heritage along the Lycian Way.
Section 4: Finike – Karaöz – Gelidonya Lighthouse
Continuing eastward, the trail reaches the Gelidonya Lighthouse, one of the most photographed landmarks of the Lycian Way. The journey from Finike through Karaöz is rich with cedar forests and sea views. Watching the sun set behind the lighthouse is a soul-stirring moment.
Section 5: Adrasan – Olympos – Çıralı – Beycik
From Adrasan, the path leads to Olympos, where ancient ruins lie hidden in overgrown forest. In Çıralı, a quiet beach village, you can hike up to Yanartaş—flames that have burned for centuries due to natural gas vents. The trail becomes steeper as it climbs into the Beydağları mountains.
Section 6: Mount Tahtalı – Geyikbayırı (The Finale)
The final leg is a true mountain adventure. At 2,365 meters, Mount Tahtalı (also known as Olympus) offers jaw-dropping views. The trail ends in Geyikbayırı near Antalya, a mecca for rock climbers and adventurers.
Extra Tips for the Demre–Kekova Area
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal; summer can be extremely hot.
- Accommodation: Boutique hotels in Demre and family-run pensions in Üçağız and Simena.
- Local Food to Try: Stuffed zucchini flowers, slow-cooked lamb, goat yogurt, homemade jams, and olive oil dishes.
- Getting There: Minibuses connect Demre with Kaş, Finike, and Antalya. Kekova is accessible by boat or by foot.
Conclusion: Following the Footsteps of a Civilization
The Lycian Way is more than a trail—it’s a portal into ancient worlds, a celebration of nature, and a pilgrimage for the curious soul. The Demre and Kekova region, in particular, is where landscape meets legend, where every path whispers a story.
If you’re seeking a journey that nourishes both body and spirit, let the Lycian Way be your compass—and let Kekova steal your heart.
