Hike Along Turkey's Breathtaking Coast For An Ancient Trail With Unforgettable Views

Turkey is a vast country, and a visit can mean many different things to many different people. Some travelers might not look much farther than Istanbul, the majestic metropolis with its jaw-dropping mosques and Grand Bazaar with more than 5,000 stores. For romantic types, a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is the way to go for an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile, millions of sunseekers head to resorts on the Mediterranean coast each year for their summer vacation. One thing the country isn't so commonly associated with is hiking, but the epic Lycian Way offers a fascinating blend of history and breathtaking views.

Running for almost 340 miles along the rugged shoreline of the Teke Peninsula, the trail connects Fethiye with the bustling tourist hub of Antalya and connects a string of archaeological wonders along the route. Named after the Lycian people who occupied the region until around 2,500 years ago, the hike takes curious walkers through forests, mountains, farmland, and rural villages. The scenery is stunning, with the Med providing a sparkling vista every step of the way and the sun-bleached ruins of an ancient civilization providing an eloquent counterpoint to snapshots of modern-day Turkey. The trek is a choose-your-own-adventure; the full route will take hardier hikers around a month to complete, while shorter sections are ideal for a week-long foray along the coast from some of the better-known destinations on the country's southern shore.

While some paths along the Lycian Way date back centuries, the full route in its present form has only existed since 1999. It is a labor of love for British expat Kate Clow, who made it her mission to create Turkey's first long-distance walking route by knitting together a series of almost forgotten roads once used by the Lycian people. Clow also wrote an authoritative guidebook to help hikers get the best from the historic sites nearby, and the trail connects 19 ancient cities between Fethiye and Antalya.

The highlights for history buffs are plentiful. Along the coast from Fethiye are the UNESCO World Heritage-listed twin sites of Xanthos and Letoon, where some of the most important examples of Lycian writing can still be seen inscribed in stone. Further south, the incredible ruins of Patara stop visitors in their tracks with its well-preserved 5,000-seat amphitheater, a lighthouse, and imposing Arch of Modestus. Another must-see attraction is the stunning rock tombs at Myra, which has an even larger theater once capable of entertaining 13,000 people. Nearby is the Church of the Tomb of St. Nicholas, the man who would eventually become known as Santa Claus. Reaching the eastern side of the peninsula, there are two more impressive cities: Olympos, a major Lycian seaport once notorious for harboring pirates, and Phaselis, a tranquil spot with a beautiful beach where ruined aqueducts and bathhouses are shaded by the surrounding forest.

The Lycian Way is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world, and adventurous travelers with a spare month might be tempted to do the whole thing. However, there are several things you need to consider before embarking on such a journey. The trek is fairly demanding as it connects dusty footpaths, stony trails, and ancient Roman roads, and there is lots of up and down along the way. You need to be fit, especially if you decide on camping along the route. Toting sleeping gear and everything else you need adds to the burden, and it's a good idea to train with some shorter hikes in advance.

Choosing the right time of year is also important. Winters in Turkey are mild, but there is more risk of rain. Summers are often scorching hot, which can make the hike punishing. What you save in weight with lighter sleeping bags and clothing might be replaced by extra water supplies. Spring and autumn are far more pleasant temperature-wise, and you can enjoy those incredible coastal views with less foot traffic to distract you.

The Lycian can be completed on a minimal budget if you are camping, but it is worth treating yourself to a night in a hotel or guesthouse occasionally. And while you may want to cram in as many ancient sites as possible, make time for relaxation on some incredible beaches like the crowded but stunning Ölüdeniz Blue Lagoon.