Kaş — the Hub of the Lycian Way
Kaş (pronounced "Kash") is a small resort town in Antalya province, sitting roughly halfway along the Lycian Way. That makes it the most convenient base for the trail: you can start west toward Kalkan and Patara, or east toward Demre, Olympos and Antalya. It's also home to Turkey's best diving, ferries to Greek Kastellorizo and a tight cluster of family-run pensions.
Why Kaş is the best base for the trail
- The geographic centre. The town sits halfway along the Lycian Way — easy to start the trail in either direction.
- Everything in one place. Outdoor shops, pharmacies, ATMs, laundries, shoe repair — all the things that aren't always available in small trail villages.
- Daily dolmuş links. You can reach any point between Fethiye and Demre in 1–2 hours.
- Recovery after the trail. Sea, beaches, restaurants, diving — perfect for 2–3 rest days post-trek.
- English everywhere. Kaş is one of the most international towns on the coast — most pensions, restaurants and shops have English speakers.
What to see in Kaş
The ancient amphitheatre
Hellenistic theatre from the 2nd century BC, seating 4,000, just 500 m from the centre. Very well preserved. Free entry. Best at sunset — the seats face the sea and the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
The old town
Narrow cobbled streets with whitewashed houses draped in bougainvillea, olive trees, rooftop restaurants. Wandering aimlessly is the main attraction.
The Lycian sarcophagus on the high street
Right in the centre, on Uzun Çarşı, sits a 4th-century BC sarcophagus — the so-called Lion Tomb. Lion relief on the lid, Lycian inscriptions. A unique juxtaposition of antiquity and the modern town.
Çukurbağ peninsula
An 8 km loop road around the peninsula — perfect for a walk or bike ride. Bay views, small beaches, seafood restaurants.
Sea and activities
Diving
Kaş is Turkey's diving capital. Visibility 20–30 m, more than 40 sites, a sunken F-104 jet, a DC-3 plane, reefs. PADI and SSI schools open April to November.
Sea-kayaking over Kekova
A day trip in sea kayaks above the sunken ancient city of Dolichiste at Kekova island. Crystal water, foundations visible on the seabed. Lunch usually included.
Ferry to Kastellorizo (Greece)
Daily ferries from Kaş port to the Greek island of Kastellorizo (Meis). 25-minute crossing. Passport needed; UK passport holders enter Greece visa-free. Same-day return possible.
Tandem paragliding
Take-off from the slope above Kaş (450 m), landing on the beach. 20–30 minute flight with a tandem pilot. Available May to October. Book at any tour shop in the centre.
Where to stay in Kaş
| Type | Price/night (double) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel / shared dorm | £10–£15 | Backpackers, solo travellers |
| Family pension | £20–£35 | Walkers — the popular middle ground |
| Boutique hotel in old town | £50–£90 | Couples, romantic break |
| 4-star with pool | £75–£140 | 3–4 days of rest after the trail |
| Self-catering apartment (Airbnb) | £35–£60 | Stays of 5+ nights, families |
Where to eat
Kaş is known for fish restaurants and local cooking. A few starting points:
- Bahçe Lokanta — traditional Turkish food by weight, cheap (£4–£7 per meal)
- İkbal Restaurant — local favourite, mezze and grilled fish by the water (£12–£20 for two)
- Bi Lokma — hummus and mantı, often busy, book ahead
- Köşk Restaurant — pricier, but one of the best sunset views
The Friday morning market (10 minutes' walk from the centre) is great for fruit, vegetables, cheese, honey — and a good spot to pick up trail food before you head out.
Kaş as a Lycian Way starting point
From Kaş you can step straight onto the trail in either direction:
East (toward Demre, Kekova, Olympos)
The eastward trail leaves the town and reaches Demre in 4–5 days:
- Kaş → Limanağzı (15 km, island views)
- Limanağzı → Kekova / Boğatepe (12 km)
- Boğatepe → Üçağız (15 km, boats to Kekova)
- Üçağız → Demre (18 km, via ancient Myra)
West (toward Kalkan, Patara, Fethiye)
Westward the trail climbs through mountain villages and the Bezirgan plain to Kalkan. First stage:
- Kaş → Boğazcık (16 km, 700 m climb, views over Kaş bay)
Full stage descriptions in both directions: Stages.
When to visit Kaş
| Month | Weather | What it's like |
|---|---|---|
| March–April | 18–22 °C, blossom | Ideal for trail, sea still cold |
| May | 24–28 °C | Trail + first swims |
| June–August | 30–35 °C | Sea & diving only — too hot to walk |
| September | 28–32 °C | Sea still warm, trail returns end of month |
| October–November | 22–26 °C | Best window — warm sea + cool walking |
| December–February | 12–16 °C, rain | Town stays open but much is closed |
How to get to Kaş
- From Antalya airport (AYT) — intercity bus 3 h 30 min, £10–£14, 4 daily.
- From Dalaman airport (DLM) — dolmuş via Fethiye, 4 hours, £12. Pre-booked private transfer £90–£125.
- From Fethiye — dolmuş hourly, £6–£8, 2 hours.
- From Antalya (city centre) — bus every 2 hours, £8–£12, 3 hours.
- From Kalkan — dolmuş every 30 min, £2, 30 minutes.
More on transport: Getting to the Lycian Way.
Frequently asked questions
How many nights in Kaş?
If Kaş is your trail starting point, one night is enough. If you're resting after the trek, 3–4 nights is ideal: one for diving, one for Kekova, one for Kastellorizo or just the beach.
Can I rent gear in Kaş?
Gas canisters, trekking poles and sleeping bags — yes, in a few outdoor shops in the centre. Tents and rucksacks — almost nowhere; bring your own. Packing list: what to bring.
Is Kaş safe for UK tourists?
Kaş is one of the safest and most international towns on the coast. No street crime to speak of, no aggressive sellers like in Kemer. Locals are used to international visitors.
Can I pay by card in Kaş?
In hotels, restaurants and larger shops — yes (Visa/Mastercard). At the market, in dolmuş and at street stalls — Turkish lira cash only. ATMs in the centre at TEB, İşbank and Garanti.