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:

Decide in 30 Seconds: Which Route is for You?

📸 “Let me see the most iconic view” → Kayaköy → Ölüdeniz
⛰️ “Official start feeling + climbing” → Ovacık → Kozağaç/Kirme
⛪ “Walk shortly but let the finale be legendary” → Af Kule Monastery

Before Setting Off: 7 Golden Rules of the Lycian Way

1) Marks: Red–White

Those stripes are your compass. If you don't see a mark for 5-10 mins, turn back.

2) Shoes: No Slippers

Trekking or non-slip sports shoes protecting the ankle are required.

3) Water: Plenty of It

At least 1.5 - 2 litres per person. There is not always a fountain.

4) Time: Don't Fight with Heat

Between 11:00-16:00 in summer is risky. Go out early in the morning.

5) Charge and Communication

Save your phone battery, take a powerbank. There may be places with no signal.

7) Trash: Only Footprints

Leave nature as you found it. Carry your trash with you.

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

Conclusion: Walking into History

The Lycian Way is not just sports; it’s like stepping on traces from thousands of years ago. Tie your laces tight, fill your water, leave early. The rest is the view.