Walk the mountains and coast of Lycia Back to News

On Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Lycia is a remote region of pine-clad hills and glistening seas, seemingly a million miles from the resort towns further east. On Foot’s self-guided holiday here is a challenging hike for seasoned walkers, and mostly follows a section of the Lycian Way long-distance trail.

Begin at the heights of Gul Mountain and descend through dappled shade to a remote village – a chance to practise your Turkish and sample the home-grown food. Then there’s a majestic climb to Tahtali Dag and a night at Beycik, from where you can explore the ruins of Laodikeia or magnificent Graeco-Roman Phaselis before marvelling at the eternal flames of the Chimaera.

The second half of the hike follows the coast south from the mile-long sandy beach at Cirali. The last two days are remote and thrilling, along the wild peninsula of Kilidonya to the lonely lighthouse – an exhilarating end to your walk.

In addition to the wealth of history and archaeology on this route, it is a paradise for food-lovers. Try the excellent fish, often cooked on an outside grill. There is a greater emphasis on vegetables than in many countries, so you’ll find lots of imaginative choices for vegetarians and vegans. And always plenty of tea to keep thirsty walkers hydrated!