There is a misguided notion that “trekking is for fitness freaks only”. But if you are travel junkie or an amateur photographer or you are seeking a peaceful and serene environment, then trekking is the best option for you. Especially when you are on a tour to Eurasia, you should go for trekking in Turkey. The spectacular scenery, historic and cultural treasures of Turkey makes the country an ideal destination for trekking and hiking. The country has amazing countryside and a number of mountainous regions ideal for trekking in Turkey. To enhance your experience, you can take a look at the grand reserve of flora, fauna, and wildlife of Turkey on this trekking trip.
The best way to discover hidden beauties, greenery and a refreshing atmosphere is an intimate walk in nature. Recognized as a great way to get off the beaten track and feel the diversity of the country, walking in Turkey will lead you to the core of history in rural villages and cozy backstreets. This wonderful country invites you to go trekking with its fascinating scenery, different trails and predictable weather. It does not matter whether you want to see green places on land or find the turquoise sea at the end of your walking journey, because Turkey has something to offer each type of traveler, especially to those who rather love trekking and hiking. Hikers and trekkers can find a growing array of walking routes and hiking hotspots in Turkey, ranging from a few hours to treks spanning more than 1,000 kilometers.
1. The St Paul Trail
European 1950 Datum Equidistant Cylindrical Map: st paul1The St Paul Trail is a 500km 27-day way-marked footpath from Perge, 10 km E of Antalya, to Yalvac, NE of Lake Egirdir. There is a second branch starting at Beşkonak, the entrance to the Köprülü Kanyon National Park 80km NE of Antalya and joining the first route at the Roman site of Adada. The trail is over Roman roads, footpaths and forest tracks; suitable in places for mountain bikes. It’s a wilder route than the Lycian Way, starting at sea level and climbing up to 2200m, with two optional peaks at around 2800m. Kate Clow opened this route in 2008, to bring tourism into rural Turkey and offer walkers insight into the countryside that Paul traveled through on his first journey through Asia Minor.
The start point at Perge, is close to Antalya airport and the end at Yalvaç, near Lake Eğirdir. Eğirdir is a major transport and accommodation hub on the route. Trekking is best in spring and autumn – July-August is hot. Many nights you can find accommodation in village houses or small pensions, but on longer sections you will have to camp – there are plenty of good places.
2. Lycian Way
The Lycian Way is a 540 km, 29-day way-marked footpath around the coast of Lycia in southern Turkey, from Fethiye to Antalya. The trail consists mainly of Roman roads, old footpaths and mule trails, often hard and stony underfoot, not suitable for mountain bikes. Lying between the coast and mountains, it often has steep gradients. It was researched, designed and waymarked by Kate Clow, a British/Turkish amateur historian, in 1999. Turkey’s first long-distance walking route, it was made in order to identify and protect some of Turkey’s old roads.
The start point, at Ölüdeniz, is 2 hours from Dalaman airport and the end point is now at Geyikbayırı, from which there are daily buses to Antalya. We are working on a link to the St. Paul Trail, which will open in 2019.
3. Evliya Celebi Way Hike Route
The Evliya Celebi Way was waymarked and brought to life in 2011. The trail follows the original 1671 route that Evliya Celebi took for his pilgrimage from Istanbul to Mecca. The journey begins in Hersek, a village near the city of Yalova and ends in Simav.
This journey covers 330 kilometres of the northwestern Anatolian region of Turkey and takes about 22 days to cover on foot. The Ottoman traveller initially made the entire journey by riding a horse, which is still a popular option today. If you choose to follow in his footsteps, then the journey takes about 25 days to complete and covers 650 kilometres, including the flat sections that you would miss on foot. Biking options are also available for adventurers looking to mix a touch of joy riding to their trail.
4. Kaçkar Trail
Located in the Black Sea region of Turkey, Kaçkar Trail is an extremely eye-pleasing sight. It is also one of the best choices among mountainous regions in Turkey to explore and trek. For trekking in Kaçkar, there is a solid network of mountains to be crossed which can take from a few hours to several days. One can take around 30 days to complete the trek. Mt Kaçkar is known to be Turkey’s fourth highest trekking point. You’re guaranteed to spot a bear, ibex or a wolf. The best and perhaps also the safest time to go on a trek on Kaçkar Trail is from July to September.
5. Carian Trail
The Carian Trail is an 800 km long distance walking path exploring Southwest Turkey through the modern provinces of Muğla and Aydın. The trail is named after the Carian civilization. On route you will discover a region rich in ancient ruins and history. Stone paved caravan roads and mule paths connect villages from the coast to a mountainous hinterland. Pine forest cloaks the mountain slopes whilst olive terraces and almond groves are an important part of the region’s economy.
The trail accesses a lesser known and unspoiled region that is full of colour and tradition for all to enjoy. The trail is signed and waymarked according to international standards allowing both independent and group travellers to hike and enjoy the scenic beauty and cultural treasures of Caria. A guidebook and a map is available, which gives the best detailed information about the route and region.
