Lycian Way Fethiye Stage

Daily Hiking Routes for Beginners: Kayaköy–Ölüdeniz, Ovacık–Kozağaç, Af Kule

Coming to Fethiye and never touching the Lycian Way is really like “returning without meeting this city”. Because the Lycian Way here is not just a hiking route; it’s a completely different experience where the smell of pine, stone paths, sea views and ancient traces come into the same frame.

But don't be intimidated by the name “Lycian Way”: You don't have to walk the entire line of hundreds of kilometers stretching from Fethiye to Antalya. Within the borders of Fethiye; there are daily stages that you can start in the morning and finish before the afternoon, with relatively low risk of getting lost and very high views. Moreover, these routes do not require a “professional mountaineer”. It can be done with the right shoes + water + little preparation.

In this guide, I will give 3 daily routes most suitable for beginner level:

Before Setting Off: 7 Golden Rules of the Lycian Way

Route 1: Kayaköy → Ölüdeniz (Descent from History to Sea)

This stage is the “star of the beginner level”. The reward is big: You see that iconic Ölüdeniz view from the top and descend to the sea.

• Difficulty: Medium (ups and downs)
• Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
• Important: Stones can be slippery on the descent to Ölüdeniz. Do not rush.
• Reward: Jumping into the sea when the walk is over.

Route 2: Ovacık → Kozağaç/Kirme Direction

A route with climbing accompanied by Ölüdeniz panorama, giving the experience of the official start.

• Difficulty: Medium/Hard (constant climbing)
• Plan: Ideal for day trippers to walk for 1.5-2 hours, take a view break and return from the same way.
• Note: Fatigue may occur on return, do not go too far on the way out.

Route 3: Faralya and Butterfly Valley (View Hunting)

The best spot for those saying “I want to take that famous valley photo too”.

• Duration: Drive to Faralya + short walks.
• Safety Warning: The edges of the rocks are cliffs. Do not take risks while catching that perfect frame.

Backpack Checklist

• ✅ Water (1.5 - 2 Litres)
• ✅ Snack (Nuts/Banana)
• ✅ Hat + Sun Cream
• ✅ Phone + Powerbank
• ✅ Basic First Aid (Band-aid)
• ✅ Trash Bag