One of the world's top ten walks 
The Lycian Way, Turkey

The Lycian Way (pronounced Lick-ee-un) is a 500km+ long-distance trail, waymarked in the early 2000s by Kate Clow using ancient paths, caravan routes and forest tracks. It links villages, mountain hamlets and classical sites - rewarding for first-time walkers and seasoned hikers alike.


Distance: 500km+
Route: Ölüdeniz → Hisarçandır
Grade: Medium-Hard
Best months: Apr-May & Sep-Oct
What to expect

The route runs from Ölüdeniz (near Fethiye) to Hisarçandır, around 20km from Antalya. It's named after ancient Lycia - and is often cited as one of the world's great coastal walks.

Expect stony ground underfoot, steady ascents and descents, and long, open stretches where shade is limited. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons; mid-summer heat can be intense, while winter weather can bring heavy rain.

Waymarks are a half red / half white rectangle, painted on rocks, walls and poles. Where the trail twists, they appear more frequently. Red/yellow markings indicate side routes; "<" marks warn of switchbacks rather than directional arrows.

Walking the Lycian Way
Coastal paths, pine forests and ancient stones - best in spring or autumn.
Kalkan accommodation with sea views
Some villas in Islamlar, near Kalkan are not far from the Lycian Way.
Accommodation & sensible bases

Culture Routes in Turkey share useful information on guesthouses, camping spots and local contacts along the trail. In some stretches, camping may be the simplest option - especially if you're walking longer days.

If you'd like a comfortable pause mid-route, Kalkan is an ideal base - sea views, contemporary stays, and a slower rhythm before the next leg.

Consider a mountain stay in Islamlar, with local fresh trout restaurants nearby.

What to take with you
  • Good maps/GPX (plus a backup plan for low signal areas)
  • A torch/headtorch (villages aside, there's little lighting)
  • A phrasebook (many hamlets are very remote)
  • Plenty of water (and a way to refill safely)
  • Basic print-outs: route notes, stops, emergency contacts
Kit checklist
Clothing Backpack Useful equipment
Walking boots + spare laces
Trainers
Socks (3+ pairs)
Trekking trousers
Shorts
Light fleece
Waterproof jacket
Sun hat
Swimwear
Rucksack (25-35L)
2x water bottles (1L)
Towel
Camera + accessories
Sunglasses
Trekking poles
Small first aid kit
Insect repellent
Blister plasters
Passport + money
Small scissors/penknife
Energy bars/snacks
Safety pins
Sewing/repair kit
Spare glasses/contacts
Earplugs
Travel adaptor
Water purification tablets (where needed)

Note: in hot months, prioritise early starts, shade breaks, and more water than you think you'll need.