Hike the Historic Lycian Way
Stretching over 500 kilometers along the stunning southern coast, the Lycian Way is one of the world's great long-distance treks. This ancient path connects Fethiye with Antalya, winding through pine forests, past dramatic sea cliffs, and connecting dozens
of ancient Lycian ruins. You don't need to be a seasoned trekker to enjoy it; the trail is broken into manageable sections, allowing for day hikes or shorter multi-day trips. Walk from the ghost village of Kayaköy to the world-famous lagoon at Ölüdeniz, or explore the ruins of Olympos before cooling off in the Mediterranean. Along the way, you’ll stay in charming family-run pensions, experiencing genuine Turkish hospitality and cuisine in villages that have welcomed walkers for decades. It’s a route that combines rugged nature with a palpable sense of history.
Follow in an Apostle's Footsteps on the St. Paul Trail
For a journey into Turkey’s mountainous heartland, the St. Paul Trail offers a different kind of pilgrimage. This 500-kilometer route roughly follows the path taken by St. Paul the Apostle on his first missionary journey in Anatolia. Starting near Antalya, the trail winds through the rugged Taurus Mountains, past Roman roads, deep canyons, and remote stone-and-timber villages. It’s a wilder, more remote alternative to the Lycian Way. The route allows for deep immersion into rural Turkish life, with opportunities to stay in village homes and experience local traditions like cheese and yogurt making. Highlights include the ancient Roman city of Selge, the breathtaking Köprülü Canyon National Park, and the serene beauty of Lake Eğirdir. This trail is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, spectacular mountain scenery, and a connection to ancient history.
Explore the Lush Black Sea Coast
Defying typical images of Turkey, the Black Sea coast is a relentlessly green and rugged region stretching to the Georgian border. Thanks to its unique climate, the area is a tapestry of misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and traditional highland villages known as yaylas. This route is perfect for a road trip along the coastal highway, stopping in historic port towns like Sinop and Trabzon. From Trabzon, venture inland to see the spectacular Sumela Monastery, a structure built into the face of a sheer cliff in Altındere National Park. The region also offers a distinct culinary experience, famous for its hamsi (Black Sea anchovy), local hazelnuts, and creamy dairy products. It’s a side of Turkey that feels a world away from the Mediterranean, offering a slower pace and stunning natural beauty.
Discover the Flavors of Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa
For a trip centered on culinary discovery, head to southeastern Turkey, a region recognized for its incredible food heritage. Gaziantep, a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, is considered by many to be the culinary capital of Turkey. A trip here is a journey through flavors, from the world-famous pistachios and baklava to savory kebabs and rich stews. Further east lies Şanlıurfa, another city with deep culinary and historical roots. Beyond the food, this region offers profound historical sites. You can visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum in Gaziantep and then travel to the world's oldest known temple, Göbekli Tepe, just outside of Şanlıurfa. This route provides an incredible combination of tastes and ancient history, offering a deep dive into a part of Anatolian culture that many tourists miss.
