Göynük to Hisarçandır
Stage 24 of the Lycian Way — Göynük to Hisarçandır, mountain terrain.
About this stage
The longest stage on the Lycian Way, traversing the mountains between Goynuk and Hisarcandir. Remote mountain walking through forests with spectacular views towards Antalya and the Beydaglari mountains.
Stage highlights
- Remote mountain wilderness
- Beydaglari mountain views
- Ancient nomad paths
- Wildflower meadows in spring
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.
Shade is patchy. Pine forest sections offer relief, but exposed coastal stretches and ridge walks require a sun hat, sunscreen and frequent water breaks in summer.
You'll move between roughly 80 m and 977 m above sea level on this stage — 1554 m total ascent and 1704 m descent over 18 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.
Getting there
Public transport access between Göynük and Hisarçandır is limited. Most hikers reach this stage by walking from a neighbouring section, or by private taxi from Antalya or Fethiye (a 1-2 hour drive depending on the trailhead).
Where this stage fits in the trail
This is stage 24 of 27, part of the Olympos to Antalya Mountains section — the rugged final section over the Beydağları mountains, past Tahtalı's summit and down to Antalya. It connects stage 23 (Gedelme to Göynük) to stage 25 (Hisarçandır to Geyikbayırı), and works well as part of a multi-day section walk.
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.