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 3, Faralya to Alınca — 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 short waymarked loop on the seaward side of the main trail just south of Faralya, rejoining the route near Karaağaç above Kabak. It trades the direct path for slower ground closer to the cliff edge, with open views over the Kabak coastline.
Route highlights
- Clifftop views over Kabak bay
- Quiet alternative to the busy Faralya–Kabak leg
- Rejoins the main trail at Karaağaç
What to expect on the trail
The path follows the Mediterranean coastline with sea views, hidden coves and rocky headlands. Expect uneven limestone underfoot and a few short scrambles.
You'll move between roughly 254 m and 397 m above sea level on this route — 362 m total ascent and 267 m descent over 3.1 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
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.