The Lycian Way in Turkey is a long-distance walking trail that links Fethiye to Antalya, covering some 500 km along the way. The path follows the coastline, providing stunning views and allowing you to visit secluded bays and quiet villages as you stroll.
If you choose to book a walking holiday in Turkey in the area, you won't have to tackle the entire trail if you don't want to, as there are several shorter options that see you join the route partway through. One such itinerary will take you from Kayakoy to Kalkan over the course of a week, with plenty to see as you stroll.
There are numerous historical sites along the Lycian Way and you will pass a few if you follow this path. On your first day, you can discover the ghost village of Kayakoy, which was abandoned in 1923 when all the Greek residents were forced out. Empty homes, schools and churches stand side-by-side here and, as you walk through the village and up the hill behind it, you will be greeted by wonderful views of the Aegean Sea below.
Another fascinating place to visit is Patara, a stop near the end of your journey. This city dates back as far as 5 BC and there are many ruins in and around the settlement that are indicative of its illustrious past. Hundreds of years ago it was an important sea port, while it is also said to be the birthplace of St Nicholas. The gated city walls, parts of which are still standing today, are impressive to look at, while the half-buried ruins in the sand dunes behind the city's beach are amazing to explore. You will feel like a true adventurer as you come across sections of column, cobbled streets and broken pieces of pottery in among the sand.
The ruins of Xanthos are another must-see sight on your walking holiday, with the remains of the Triumphal Arch among the most striking structures still remaining. The city was once the capital of the Lycian Federation, and it played an important role in the region until it was abandoned following a series of Arab raids.
History is not the only thing you will discover as you walk along the Lycian Way, though, and the region's natural attractions are equally spectacular. An excellent example of this is the Valley of the Butterflies, which is best visited between June and September when thousands of the winged creatures can be found in the sheltered area. Numerous species in all manner of colours gather in the valley, coating the trees, rocks and plants. It is amazing to see the insects take flight in large groups, creating vibrant patterns in the sky.
There are also several secluded beaches you can visit during your walking break - including the stretch of sand at the end of the Valley of the Butterflies. This particular beach is unspoilt by development, making it the ideal spot to sit back and relax after you've enjoyed the trail leading from the village of Faralya through the valley. Near Kayakoy, meanwhile, you can access a lovely bay that is lapped by a calm lagoon, which is perfect if you fancy taking a dip in the sea.
With so many things to see and interesting spots to visit along the way, a walking trip on the Lycian coast will be one you remember forever.
If you are looking for relaxing walking holidays in Turkey, consider following part of the Lycian Way. By doing so, you can combine history and nature on a beautiful break by the coast.
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق