Lycian Way Trekking Tour (7 Days)

Experience Turkey’s Iconic Coastal Trail with the Lycian Way Trekking Tour (7 Days)

If you’re craving an adventure that combines stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and authentic local flavor, this 7-day Lycian Way trek from Fethiye to Kas offers all that and more. For around $2,191, you’ll spend nearly a week walking along one of Turkey’s most famous long-distance trails, passing by secluded beaches, historic Lycian sites, and breathtaking views. Guided by knowledgeable local experts like Fatih, this tour is tailored for travelers who enjoy a balance of active exploration and comfortable overnight stays.

What we love most about this experience is the personal attention and expert guidance—many reviews praise guides like Fatih for their care and deep knowledge, making each day both engaging and educational. Plus, the way the itinerary beautifully combines cultural insights with natural splendor makes this a compelling option for those seeking an authentic Turkish adventure.

A minor consideration: the tour involves moderate physical activity—around 14 to 19 km of trekking daily—so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-back holiday, this might be more of a challenge than some prefer, but for active travelers, it’s well worth the effort.

This tour appeals most to those craving a mix of physical activity, cultural discovery, and scenic beauty, especially if you appreciate guided insights from passionate locals. It’s perfect for independent-minded travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 7-day trek combining coastal beauty, ancient ruins, and local cuisine
• Expert guides like Fatih make the experience educational and personable
• Comfortable overnight stays in organized guesthouses ensure rest after long days
• Authentic local meals provide a taste of Turkish hospitality
• Moderate physical challenge suitable for travelers with some trekking experience
• Flexible itinerary with personalized route choices and cultural insights

A Deep Dive into the Lycian Way Trekking Tour

The Basics: What to Expect

This 7-day guided trek covers some of Turkey’s most scenic and historically significant stretches of the Lycian Way, a renowned long-distance trail along Turkey’s southwestern coast. Starting in Fethiye, a lively town known for its natural harbor and vibrant markets, the tour moves along the coast towards Kas, with plenty of stops at ancient sites and scenic beaches. Price-wise, at around $2,191 per person, it’s an investment in a well-organized, immersive experience that offers both physical activity and culture.

The tour includes pickup services and is delivered as a private experience, meaning you won’t be part of a large group—just your own party and a knowledgeable guide, which adds a layer of personalized attention.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Day Special?

Day 1: From Fethiye to Kayakoy and Telmessos
Your journey begins with a 7 km trek from ancient Telmessos, where you’ll explore the abandoned village of Kayakoy—a hauntingly beautiful ghost town that once bustled with Greek residents. The total walking distance for the day is about 15 km, and you’ll enjoy stunning views as you descend towards Oludeniz. Many reviewers highlight the appeal of combining historical sites with natural scenery. One reviewer raves about how guide Fatih picked the best sections, making the experience both engaging and manageable.

Day 2 & 3: Coastal Trekking to Faralya and Along the Coast
These two days involve 14 km and 18 km hikes respectively, on the Lycian Way trail. Expect rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping vistas. The scenery is often described as breathtaking, with many reviews noting the spectacular views that make every step worthwhile. The inclusion of admission tickets for some sites enhances the experience, with guides sharing stories behind each ruin or landmark.

Day 4 & 5: Trek Toward Turgut Özal Bulvar and Xantos
Day 4 covers 14 km, leading you to the charming area of Turgut Özal Bulvar, known for its local character and seaside vibe. Day 5 is a highlight—19 km of walking to the ancient city of Xantos, the former Lycian capital. Visiting Xantos is like stepping back in time, and the walk reveals diverse landscapes, from rocky coastlines to lush hills. As one reviewer notes, the variety of scenery keeps the trek interesting, and the chance to explore Lycian ruins makes it educational too.

Day 6: Patara and Its Ruins
A shorter 9 km walk brings you to Patara, famous for its expansive sandy beach and ancient city. The combination of beach time and archaeological exploration makes this day especially appealing. Many travelers appreciate the balance of activity and relaxation, with some stating that the delicious local food makes the experience even more memorable.

Day 7: Final Trek and Hellenistic Theatre
Your final day features a 14 km hike ending at the Hellenistic Theatre, a remarkable historical site overlooking the coast. The trek provides a fitting conclusion—combining natural beauty and cultural history in one sweeping walk.

The Experience: What You’ll Love

Spectacular Views and Authentic Encounters
Throughout the tour, you’ll be treated to breathtaking coastal vistas—a highlight for many reviewers. The trails wind along cliffs with views that seem to stretch forever. Off the trail, you’ll find secluded beaches and quiet coves perfect for a quick swim or rest.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff
Many reviews emphasize the value of Fatih’s expertise, describing him as attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing his homeland. From explaining the significance of Lycian ruins to recommending local eateries, guides like Fatih truly shape the experience.

Comfort and Local Flavor
Staying in organized guesthouses each night allows travelers to unwind comfortably after a day of trekking. The included home-cooked meals from locals add a warm touch, giving a genuine taste of Turkish hospitality.

The Practical Side: What to Consider

While this tour offers a lot, it does require moderate physical fitness—you’ll be trekking for 5-6 hours most days, often over uneven terrain. If you’re not accustomed to walking such distances, training beforehand might be wise. Also, some days involve longer stretches of up to 19 km, so good footwear, sun protection, and hydration are essentials.

Price-wise, at over $2,100, it’s not the cheapest option, but when you factor in guided expertise, comfortable accommodations, most meals, and curated scenic routes, the value becomes clear. It’s an investment in a well-rounded, hassle-free adventure.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Travelers consistently mention the home-cooked meals and local recommendations as highlights. The tour’s focus on small, organized guesthouses ensures a more authentic and intimate experience than staying in large hotels. The inclusion of ancient Lycian ruins, such as Xantos and Patara, offers a tangible connection to history that’s hard to match.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek is perfect for active travelers who want to combine physical challenge with cultural discovery in a scenic setting. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided insights, local hospitality, and a mix of outdoor adventure and history. If you prefer a relaxed, leisurely holiday, or have mobility limitations, this might be too demanding. However, for those who enjoy moderate trekking, stunning coastlines, and historic exploration, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While it’s designed for those with moderate fitness, the daily distances and terrain suggest it’s better suited for travelers with some trekking experience or good walking endurance.

Are meals included?
Most of the meals are home-cooked by locals, and the tour emphasizes local cuisine. The price covers these meals, which are a highlight for many guests.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
The tour stays in organized guesthouses each night, offering simple but comfortable lodging with a local touch.

Can I expect to see ancient ruins?
Absolutely. You’ll visit notable sites such as Xantos, Patara, and Telmessos, with some admission tickets included or optional.

What should I bring?
Good hiking shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and layers suitable for variable weather. The tour description suggests a reasonable level of physical fitness.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup services and short transfers, especially for days when the trail is challenging or long.

How personalized is the experience?
Being a private tour, it offers personalized attention, and guides like Fatih tailor routes and stops based on your interests and pace.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan carefully.

Final Thoughts

The Lycian Way Trekking Tour from Fethiye to Kas offers a rewarding blend of stunning coastal scenery, ancient history, and authentic Turkish hospitality. The guided approach ensures you gain insight into the region’s rich past while enjoying the natural beauty at your own pace.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a curated, immersive experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The inclusion of comfortable guesthouses, delicious local meals, and expert guides makes it a practical choice for those seeking quality and authenticity.

While the physical demands are moderate, the stunning scenery and cultural richness compensate for the effort. For anyone wanting to explore Turkey’s spectacular coast on foot, this trek provides a memorable and meaningful adventure.

In summary, expect scenic coastal walks, fascinating Lycian archaeological sites, comfortable stays, and knowledgeable guides. If you’re ready for a moderate challenge with big rewards, this tour will be a highlight of your Turkish travels.