Lycian Way
Lycia is the name of the peninsula between Antalya and Fethiye on Turkey’s southern coast, where the Taurus mountains sweep down to the sea. The name comes from the ancient name used by the Hittites “Lukka” which meant light. Hence, Lukk(a)ia: the Land of Light. Lycia certainly deserves this name with over 250 sunny days in a year!
It is a region where the mountains meet the sea. High, rocky coasts and beautiful, sandy beaches form the magical stage from where you can enjoy stunning sunsets and glorious views across the endless Mediterranean. The long-distance route, the Lycian Way, links Lycian and Roman roads, Seljuk and Ottoman caravan routes, mule trails, goat paths and forestry tracks in a 540 km walk along this spectacular coast. The route passes through ruins of many ancient Lycian cities and visits the most worthwhile spots on the coast. It is a walk through history where you will hear of the Lycian League and Alexander the Great, pirates and sea trade, early christian mountain monasteries, marching armies and monumental tombs. And let’s not forget the richness of the nature with an abundance of spring flowers, orchids, pine and cedar forests, butterflies and birds, all to be discovered on your walk along the Lycian Way.
Middle Earth Travel offers a variety of trekking programmes along this route. The best known parts of the route have been hand-picked and integrated into two different, short programs by Kate Clow, the author of the book ‘The Lycian Way’, Turkey’s first long-distance walk. The Pirate Coast trek covers the eastern section, close to Antalya in 8 days, while the 7 days Seven Capes trek runs from Fethiye to Patara in the west. You can join one of our guided tours with fixed departure dates or opt for a self-guided format that can start any day. Shorter or extended tours are available as well and we are very happy to create a tailor made program that fully fits your personal wishes.