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 21, Tekirova to Phaselis — 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
The lower alternative to the first leg of the Tahtalı mountain crossing. From Beycik it follows the forested valley flank north to the Çukuryayla pastures, where it meets the main mountain route again. A gentler option when cloud or snow sits on the higher line.
Route highlights
- Cedar and pine forest on Tahtalı's western flank
- Çukuryayla mountain pastures
- Sheltered alternative to the high route
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 775 m and 1819 m above sea level on this route — 1088 m total ascent and 268 m descent over 9.3 km.
A moderate stage requiring reasonable hill-walking fitness. Most active hikers complete it in the suggested time with a 30-minute lunch break.
Water and shade
Water is available in places along this route, but sources are seasonal — treat anything you take from a spring and start with a full bottle. It is shaded for most of its length.
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.