For tourists vacationing in Oludeniz, the Lycian Way is a unique opportunity to combine a beach holiday with active hiking that does not require special training or multi-day treks. The section of the trail passing directly through the resort`s surroundings is ideally suited for day routes. The length of the segments available for walks varies from a few kilometers to more serious distances, allowing everyone to choose a load according to their strength.
The total length of the Lycian Way is about 500-540 kilometers, although some sources cite a figure of 750 kilometers — the discrepancies are associated with the emergence of new branches and route updates. The trail is officially approved by the government of Turkey and is marked with red-and-white blazes in accordance with the European Grande Randonnee agreement, which makes navigation along it quite simple even for novice travelers.
The route received its name in honor of the ancient civilization of Lycia, which existed on this coast in the 1st millennium BC. The trail itself is a relatively young creation. It was finally formed and marked only in 1999 by the British traveler Kate Clow, who moved to live in Turkey and breathed new life into the ancient mule trails and trade routes that once connected the Lycian cities.
The route connects two major Turkish centers: it begins in the Fethiye region on the Aegean Sea and ends at Geyikbayırı near Antalya on the Mediterranean coast. The trail runs along picturesque cliffs, through coniferous forests, past ancient ruins and azure bays, offering travelers a unique combination of natural beauty and historical heritage.
The best time to hike the Lycian Way is spring from mid-March to the end of May and autumn from mid-September to November. In summer, there is sweltering heat here, and in winter there is snow in the mountains and frequent rain. The trail has elevation changes: the easiest sections are on the Fethiye side, and the difficulty gradually increases to the east.
Along the entire route, there are many sources of drinking water marked on tourist maps, and at a distance of approximately one walking day, there is a highway connecting resort towns, which allows you to quickly leave the route if necessary.
The Lycian Way in Oludeniz
It is here, in Oludeniz, that the western part of the famous Lycian Way begins. This is the most accessible and popular segment for those who are not ready for multi-day hikes with a tent, but want to touch the legendary route and see the coast from a completely different perspective.
The start of the Lycian Way is located in the immediate vicinity of the resort town of Oludeniz, approximately four kilometers from the famous beaches and thirteen kilometers from the city of Fethiye. The landmark for the start of the trail is the Garcia Resort & Spa hotel. There are signs for it on the roads, so finding the starting point is not difficult. The parking coordinates for those traveling by car are: 36.561312, 29.137755.
The first five hundred meters of the path run along the road leading to the hotel, and then the trail itself begins, marked with the familiar red-and-white blazes. At first, the Lycian Way is wide and cozy — pine trees create shade, the air is filled with the scent of pine needles, and on both sides of the road picturesque views open up: to the right, a steep slope overgrown with bushes and grass, to the left, rising cliffs.
After about a couple of kilometers of an easy walk, the trail leads to a wide observation deck. From here opens that famous "postcard" view — a panorama of the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz from a bird`s-eye perspective. This is the shot that adorns Turkey`s promotional brochures.
Further on, the Lycian Way becomes narrower, turning into a narrow rocky path in the mountains. But it is here that the views become especially breathtaking — the panorama of the mountains, sea, and beaches from here is simply incredible.
This short section of the trail is a great opportunity for tourists to take a day hike that will give a completely different perspective on the resort. In summer, it is better to set out on such a walk early in the morning or closer to the evening, when the heat subsides. In the morning, you can see a luxurious panorama of the sea and sky, and in the evening — an incredible sunset, when the sun slowly hides in the sea, painting everything around in golden-pink tones.
Natural Attractions Along the Lycian Way
The Lycian Way in the vicinity of Oludeniz passes by several amazing natural objects, each deserving individual attention.
The Blue Lagoon is the main goal and main reward for those who set out on the Lycian Way from Oludeniz. Seeing the famous bay from above, rather than from the beach, is a completely different experience. The water here shimmers with all shades of turquoise and aquamarine, and the whimsically curved sandbar appears before your eyes in all its glory.
Mount Babadag, majestically towering over the coast, also reveals itself from the trail in all its grandeur. Its height is 1969 meters. The name of the mountain translates as "Father Mountain," and looking at it, you understand why ancient peoples considered these places sacred. On the trail, there is a signpost with routes, including to Babadag — for those who want to continue the ascent.
The observation deck above Butterfly Valley is another point to keep in mind when setting out on the Lycian Way. Although the valley itself is located below, the trail offers stunning views of this picturesque canyon with a waterfall. Butterfly Valley got its name due to the many species of butterflies living in this unique microclimate. You can descend into it via a rather extreme trail, or you can simply admire the views from above and take stunning photographs.
Secluded bays and beaches — along the Lycian Way in the vicinity of Oludeniz, there are wild, almost deserted beaches that can only be reached on foot or by sea. For example, Kabak Beach, located at the foot of steep cliffs, is considered one of the most picturesque. The descent to it requires some effort, but the reward is almost complete seclusion and crystal clear water.
How to Prepare for a Walk on the Lycian Way
Even setting out on the Lycian Way for just one day, it is worth preparing thoroughly. Shoes must be comfortable. Be sure to take a sufficient supply of water with you — at least one liter per person, preferably more.
Communication works on the trail, the navigator shows your location steadily, but it is better to download offline maps or a track of the route in advance. The red-and-white blaze markings are encountered quite often, it is difficult to get lost, but attentiveness does not hurt — in some sections, the markings may not be entirely logical.
It is best to set out on the walk early in the morning, around eight or nine o`clock. By eleven, the sun starts to beat down very strongly, and walking becomes more difficult. But it is the early morning that will give you the opportunity to see the lagoon almost alone and take those famous photos without crowds of tourists.
The Lycian Way in Oludeniz is an amazing opportunity to see the resort from a different side. Not from the beach, and not from a paraglider, but on your own two feet, at your own pace, stopping in those places that particularly touch your heart. Just a few kilometers of the path — and around every corner, the most beautiful views will open up before you, the very ones for which millions of people come to this coast.
