Ancient Trails of Lycia

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~~$836~~

$799

Ancient Trails of Lycia

8 Days Starting and ending in Antalya, Türkiye

Visiting: Antalya, Beycik, Çıralı, Ulupınar, Olympos, Adrasan Bay, Kekova Island, Sunken City Kekova, Apollonia, Aperlai Ancient City, Myra Ancient City

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

217

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Medium, Easy to Moderate

Age range:

12-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active, Adventure Tours, Walking Hiking and Trekking

Interests:

Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology

From:

$836

$799 (USD) Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$38

NB: Prices correct on 15-May-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

On this easy to moderate walking tour, you will discover selected sections of the ancient trails of Lycia, otherwise known as the Lycian Way, revealing the region’s ancient heritage and wild beauty. You will walk through mountainous landscapes and dense forests, where the oriental strawberry tree grows, explore the ruins of Lycian ancient cities and discover the rock tombs of Myra.

Highlights

Walk selected eastern sections of Turkey’s Lycian Way
Experience an authentic, less-travelled side of Turkey
See the eternal flames of Chimaera
Explore the ruins of Olympos, dating back to 300 BC
Discover the rock tombs of Myra
Stroll the streets of Antalya’s vibrant old town

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival In Antalya

Location: Antalya

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dogan Hotel or Kosa Hotel or similar

Meals Included: No Meals

Arrive at Antalya Airport and enjoy our complimentary transfer to your hotel in Antalya’s historical Old Town (15km / 20min). Meet our representative, who will brief you on the walks.

Walking for the day: none / walk around Antalya Old Town

Day 2 : Beycik To Çıralı | 14Km

Location: Beycik, Çıralı

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Plaj Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning transfer to Beycik junction. Today’s route starts by heading through the fragrant pine forests, before descending and leading to some secluded bays. A swimming break is recommended in the second bay. Continue on along the coast and through more pine forests, towards your accommodation in Çıralı.

Walking for the day: 14km, 5h, ↑400m ↓800m

Day 3 : The Eternal Flames Of Chimaera | 8Km

Location: Ulupınar, Çıralı

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Plaj Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to the valley of Ulupinar (35km / 40min). Through pine forests, you hike to the “Burning stones” with its natural earth fire, the eternal flames of the Chimaera. Mount Chimaera was the name of this place in ancient Lycia, where methane and other gases emerge from the rock and burn constantly. Some ancient sources considered it to be the origin of the myth of the monster called the Chimera. Finally, walk down into the bay of Çirali, lined with green gardens and a beautiful sandy beach.

Walking for the day: 8km, 3.5h, ↑195m ↓450m

Day 4 : From The Ancient City Of Olympos To Adrasan Bay | 20Km

Location: Olympos, Adrasan Bay

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Papirus Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, the ruins of the ancient coastal town of Olympos await you. Discover the remains of temples and thermal baths, as well as the Acropolis, which rests on a seaside cliff. Through deciduous forests with strawberry trees, the path leads up the side of Musa Daği. Past citrus fruit orchards you reach Adrasan Bay.

Walking for the day: 20km, 6-7h, ↑720m ↓720m

Day 5 : Coast Of Kekova, The Sunken City | 10Km

Location: Kekova Island, Sunken City Kekova

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Telemen’in Evi or Onur Pension or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A two hour transfer to Kapakli, from which the hike starts. Pass the ruins of the ancient city of Istlada, then walk through the coastal landscape of Kekova and reach the old castle of Simena. The Lycian Way continues to the small natural port of Üçağiz.

Walking for the day: 10km, 3-4h, ↑160m ↓260m

Day 6 : The Ancient Cities Of Apollonia And Apelai | 15Km

Location: Apollonia, Aperlai Ancient City

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Telemen’in Evi or Onur Pension or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Short transfer to the hiking trail above the small village of Sahilkilincli. First, visit the ancient city of Apollonia with its theatre. Through slopes covered with oaks and carob trees, you will walk to the remains of the ancient city of Aperlai. Here, in a long bay between two ridges, an inlet reaches up to the ruins – a beautiful bathing place! Walk back to Üçağiz on a narrow path along the coast.

Walking for the day: 15km, 5-6h, ↑145m ↓500m

Day 7 : The Rock Tombs Of Myra And Antalya

Location: Myra Ancient City, Antalya

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dogan Hotel or Kosa Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Transfer to the ancient city of Myra (22km / 40min). Here you will see the impressive Lycian rock tombs, which are built in a towering rock wall. Afterwards, you can visit the Byzantine Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Demre before returning to Antalya by public bus (about 3h, transfer not included, bus ticket c. GBP 10 pp plus GBP 10 for a taxi ). Alternative booking of private transfer is possible (at an extra cost). Visit the old town of Antalya, the old harbour or the beautiful terraced parks of Antalya.

Walking for the day: no walking / walk around Antalya

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Antalya

Meals Included: Breakfast

Return home or individual stay extension.

What's Included

Detailed digital pre-departure holiday information pack

Including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions and road notes; maps with daily routes and optional hikes marked (no printed documents will be provided)
Accommodation

Accommodation for 7 nights as listed in the itinerary
Meals

7 breakfasts 5 packed lunches (days 3-7) 5 dinners (days 2-6)
Luggage transport to next hotel
Transfers to/from the Antalya airport
24/7 phone assistance by our local office/representative

What's Not Included

Flights
Bus transfer from Myra to Antalya on Day 7
All lunches and dinners on the first and last day
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Local tourist taxes and entry fees (payable on-site)
Any items not explicitly listed as included

Check out our Q&As

Difficulty and terrain

This holiday is suitable for walkers of average fitness. Some days include longer walks of a moderate grade. The total walking distance is 67km, with an average of 14km per walking day. Total elevation gain is up to 1,620m. The terrain is varying from steep rocky footpaths to cobbled paths. Routes are well signposted in most parts. We strongly advise you to follow only marked trails and never shorten the path through the unknown and unmarked terrain. We will provide you with detailed road notes and maps, and you can call our 24/7 local assistance phone number anytime. More detailed info on route navigation will be included in your holiday information pack.
Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

Yes we can, please contact us for details
Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

A supplement applies to members of a group who require a single room This holiday is available for solo travellers; a supplement will be charged as accommodation and luggage transfer costs are not shared (we never mix and match – solo travellers will be accommodated in single rooms)
Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

This will be provided on all documentation
Are flights included in this tour?

No, international flights are not included

When to go

We can organise this walking tour between March and June and September till November. July and August are too hot for making this trip. Weather is best in the autumn. The flexibility of self guided holidays means that there are no fixed dates and you can start your holiday on any date in the season. Winter temperatures are quite mild, with average highs around 15C, while in summer the maximum temperatures are hot, ranging between 30 and 35C. Rainfall is concentrated from mid-October to mid-April, when it can be abundant, and can sometimes be torrential, particularly in the slopes facing west and southwest.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.
Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.
Can I join the tour once it has departed?

Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.
How long has the tour company been trading?

The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeroen van kesteren

This was our first ever cycle holiday…

17-Nov-2022

This was our first ever cycle holiday so expectations where high. And Natural Adventure delivered with a vengeance. Everything was so well organised and friendly. Our contact at HQ Dalila was friendly, concerned and lightning fast in her responses. The trip itself was well designed to show you a lot in a short timespan but dayly distances where very doable leaving lots of time to divert or spent in the lovely overnight towns. The hotels ranged from cosy and homey to lavish and extravagant which was a real nice surprise at every end of the day. We will defintely be back for more! TNX SO MUCH GUYS!

Nigel Homer (Google Reviewer)

Just finished our around Zugspitze...

20-Jun-2022

Just finished our around Zugspitze walk. The walking was not too strenuous through an amazing landscape. Hotels were of a good standard and food generally excellent. I would definitely recommend to anyone who was reasonable fit.

James Bailey (Google Reviewer)

AVOID OR BOOK DIRECT Whilst I’d...

02-May-2024

AVOID OR BOOK DIRECT Whilst I’d 100% recommend hiking the Camino, unfortunately I couldn’t recommend The Natural Adventure Company to anyone. We signed up for the Relaxed Portuguese Camino - however, the organisation was woeful. None of the private transfers showed up, the welcome pack wasn’t delivered on time, and many of the hotels were well-below standard - including one where the manager was extremely aggressive to both us and other customers. During the trip, there was no proactive support from the Natural Adventure, and their customer service was appalling. Even after the tour, I tried to contact the company to draw their attention to the myriad of other 1 star reviews for the hotel in question - which includes reviewers stating the hotel owner physically assaulted them - but unfortunately they weren’t interested. As other reviews have pointed out below, you should also beware that The Natural Adventure simply subcontract the entirety of their tours to other providers. So if you still want to sign up for this tour, you could cut out the middle man and book the EXACT same tour directly with Portugal Green Walks - for less money!

Dates & Availability

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May
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Saturday - Saturday

May 18, 2024 - May 25, 2024

~~$836~~ $799 (USD)