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8 Days
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From IntroductoryTo Challenging
Between Fethiye and Antalya along Southern Turkey's Tekke Peninsula, or Lycia as it is historically known, is one of the country's first waymarked trails, the 509km Lycian Way. This mountainous route encompasses spectacular coastal views, archaeological treasures dating back to the 8th Century BCE and interesting villages with their unique Lycian flavour. During a series of day walks it is possible to discover sections of the route on the flanks of Mount Tahtali and Musa Dag. Traverse rugged mountain trails to meet the gracious local people, sample culinary specialties and swim in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
TURKEY
Antalya
35kg of CO2-e PP per day
(248kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Antalya
On arrival in Antalya airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Attalos II, King of Pergamum, founded Antalya in the 2nd century BC. Later the city was overtaken by Roman, Byzantine and Seljuk civilizations before it came under the control of the Ottomans. Today Antalya is an attractive city with its shaded palm-lined boulevards and lively marina. The picturesque old quarter known as Kaleici, with narrow streets and old wooden houses is where our hotel is located. You will need to liaise with your hosts regarding the transfer arrangements for tomorrow. Overnight Antalya. Transfer time 20mins; distance 15km/9.3mi
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Transfer to Yukari Beycik, walk beneath the foot of Mt Tahtali to Ulupinar (4hrs)
This morning you will be transferred by private vehicle to Yukari Beycik, a charming mountain village located at the foot of Mt. Tahtali (Mount Olympos), an impressive peak with a beautiful steep face. Here you start your hike on gravel roads and walking paths through a picturesque valley, with green and fertile pastures and stunning views all the way. Continuing along old mule paths and through pine and conifer forests, you will reach the village of Ulupinar, a small settlement best known for its delightful riverside restaurants and fish farms. Walking distance: 10km/6mi; ascent: 50m/164ft; descent: 680m/2230ft Transfer time 1-2 hr; Distance 80km/49.7mi
Meals: B,D
Day 3
Transfer to Tekirova, walk to Cirali along the turquoise coast (7-8hrs)
The Lycian way trek continues to Cirali along the turquoise coast. After transferring to Tekirova (20km/ 20mins), the first stage begins along a disused dirt road which passes by idyllic beaches where local fishermen haul their catches. They may offer to take you by boat to Cirali which is recommended if you are tired. The trip takes only 5-10 minutes and costs 15-20TL. Otherwise the walk to Cirali will take 2 hours along the coastline on an undulating trail past small bays. Cirali is a peaceful village between ancient Olympos and Chimaera. At the end of the walk, you will be picked up and transferred back to your overnight accommodation in Ulupinar village. Walking distance: 18km/11mi; ascent: 215m/705ft; descent: 205m/672ft Transfer time 15/20mins; 20km/12.4mi (Ulupinar village to Tekirova) Transfer time 10/15mins; 15km/9.3mi (Cirali to Ulupinar village)
Day 4
Walk to Chimaira (Chimaera) and continue to Cirali (4hrs)
Today’s walk takes you south along the Lycian Way, through a peaceful valley to Chimaira (or Chimaera). According to legend a monster (part goat, part lion and part snake) blowing fire from its mouth was terrorising the locals. Bellerophon, the hero of Lycia, killed the monster by pouring molten lead into its mouth. Today, situated at 300m above sea level, you can observe flames escaping among the rocks, known in Turkish as Yanartas (flaming rock). The spot consists of some two dozen vents in the ground, grouped in two patches on the hillside. The vents emit methane thought to be of metamorphic origin. In ancient times sailors could navigate by the flames. Afterwards you make a gradual descent to the coast, finally arriving at the beach at Cirali. You will spend the night in Cirali at a small family run hotel/pension. Walking distance: 7.6km/4.8mi; ascent: 200m/656ft; descent: 320m/1050ft
Day 5
To Musa Dag (Moses Mountain) and continue to Adrasan village (8hrs)
An early start is required today. First you will pass the Olympos ancient site, situated in a river valley near the coast and founded in the Hellenistic period. Afterwards you trek via Musa Dag (Mount Moses) over the ridges covered with pine woods and up to a shepherd hut where you can have your lunch. From here there are good views of the Adrasan valley. Descend to Adrasan with its 2 km long sandy beach. Overnight in Adrasan. Walking distance: 16km/10mi; ascent: 720m/2362ft; descent: 720m/2362ft
Day 6
Transfer to Karaoz, walk to Cape Gelidonia and on to Adrasan (6-8hrs)
A superb day of coastal walking awaits you today. After a short transfer to the area of Karaoz you start your walk on a wide trail up through pine forest and ascend to a rocky ridge crest overlooking the peninsula of cape Gelidonia with its two lighthouses. Continue your hike with beautiful views down to hidden coves and across to islands. This is a beautiful walk contouring the range of hills which form the backbone of Gelidonia. Descending close to the sea’s edge, the route twists and turns amongst limestone crags sometimes under pine trees and sometimes high above the sea. Return to Adrasan and your hotel. Walking distance: 15.7km/9.8mi; ascent: 325m/1066ft; descent: 405m/1328ft Transfer time 40mins; 30km/18.6mi
Day 7
Local bus to Antalya
In the morning there will be a transfer to the main road where you will take a local bus to Antalya, a journey of 1.5 hours, and a taxi from bus station to your pension in the old city (payable locally). The remainder of the day is free to explore Antalya.
Meals: B
Day 8
Transfer to airport, trip concludes
After breakfast there will be a transfer to the airport, trip concludes. Transfer time 20mins; distance 15km/9.3mi
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 3 - Daily walks of around 3-8 hours. There are some steep sections over loose trails during the walk and such sections of the trail require care - it is important that you are sure footed. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
Per Person, Twin Share
The closest airport is Antalya International Airport, located approximately 15km from town. The airport has direct flights from points throughout Europe and within Turkey. See the airport website for more details. (http://www.aytport.com/en/default.aspx).
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.