An alternative, not a numbered stage
This is a branch of the Lycian Way, not part of the main numbered sequence. It is the second leg of the eastern branch: it starts at Çandır, where stage 25a ends, and comes down to the coast near Sarısu, west of Antalya. It does not rejoin the main route. Its waymarking is not confirmed: carry the route on your phone.
About this route
The second leg of the eastern branch (sections 13.11 and 13.12). From Çandır, where stage 25a ends, it drops steeply on mountain paths to the valley floor, climbs about 200 m over a last ridge and comes down to the coast near Sarısu, west of Antalya. About 1,000 m of descent in all, mostly on paths, with gravel tracks and short stretches of road; two springs are mapped in the first half.
Route highlights
- Long descent from the Çandır valley to the sea
- Finish on the coast near Sarısu, west of Antalya
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 5 m and 622 m above sea level on this route — 335 m total ascent and 949 m descent over 12.8 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. Shade is patchy, so a hat and sun cover matter outside the cooler months.
Getting there
Çandır, at the start, is beside the Altınyaka road (07-50); on foot you reach it along stage 25a. The route ends on the coast near Sarısu, west of Antalya. For a road transfer at either end, ask your pension to arrange a taxi.
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.