Limanağzı to Aperlae
Stage 11 of the Lycian Way — Limanağzı to Aperlae, coastal terrain.
About this stage
A remote and atmospheric stage from Limanağzı to the partially sunken ancient city of Aperlae. The trail passes through the ruins of Apollonia before descending to the coast where Lycian walls and sarcophagi slip beneath the turquoise sea. This is one of the most isolated sections of the trail — carry all food and water.
Stage highlights
- Aperlae sunken city ruins
- Apollonia ancient ruins
- Completely remote coastal walking
- Underwater archaeology visible
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 10 m and 400 m above sea level on this stage — 400 m total ascent and 400 m descent over 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.
Getting there
Public transport access between Limanağzı and Aperlae 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 11 of 27, part of the Central Coast & Kekova section — the central section linking the harbour towns of Kalkan, Kaş and Üçağız with the sunken city of Kekova. It connects stage 10 (Kaş to Limanağzı) to stage 12 (Aperlae to Üçağız), 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.