An alternative, not a numbered stage
This is a waymarked alternative on the Lycian Way, not part of the main numbered sequence. It is a variant of Stage 5, Bel to Gavurağılı — walk one or the other, not both. Signage on the ground is the authority: follow the waymarks and carry the route on your phone.
About this route
A long, high alternative to the two main stages between Bel and the Letoon plain. From Bel it climbs northeast into the hills, passes the Çataltepe area, and descends in stages to meet the main route near Letoon. Remote walking with long waterless stretches — most walkers will want a full day for it.
Route highlights
- Sustained high-level walking away from the road network
- Çataltepe hill country
- Finishes by the Letoon plain near the World Heritage sanctuary
What to expect on the trail
This is a mountain stage with significant ascents and rocky paths. Sturdy boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended, and the descents can be hard on knees.
You'll move between roughly 19 m and 831 m above sea level on this route — 682 m total ascent and 1325 m descent over 26.5 km.
A challenging stage with sustained climbs and technical terrain. Allow extra time, start at first light, and carry more water than you think you'll need.
Water and shade
Water is scarce on this route. Fill up before you start and carry enough for the whole leg. Shade is patchy, so a hat and sun cover matter outside the cooler months.
Getting there
There is no scheduled bus or dolmuş serving either end of this route. Hikers reach it on foot from the main trail, or by private taxi from Antalya or Fethiye.
Best time to walk this stage
The Lycian Way is best walked in spring (mid-March to mid-May) or autumn (mid-September to mid-November). October and April offer the most reliable weather: mild temperatures, clear skies, wildflowers in spring or olive harvest in autumn, and far fewer hikers than the shoulders of those windows. Summer (June-August) is generally too hot for comfortable walking — coastal stages routinely exceed 35°C and water sources dry up. Winter (December-February) brings rain to the coast and snow to mountain passes; the trail is walkable but conditions are unpredictable, especially on the higher inland stages.