About this stage
A short coastal walk from Tekirova to the ancient Lycian city of Phaselis — under 5 km along the shore and through fragrant pine forest to the stunning ruins set between three harbours on the Mediterranean. Measured routes give 5–7 km depending on where in Tekirova you start; it is a half-day at most, and most walkers give the rest of it to the ruins and a swim from the pine-shaded beach.
Stage highlights
- Phaselis ancient ruins
- Three natural harbours
- Roman aqueduct
- Pine-shaded beach
- Crystal clear swimming
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.
Carry what you need for a couple of hours; the walk is short enough that water is not a planning problem.
You'll stay within about 30 m of sea level — 91 m of ascent and descent over 4.7 km, around 1.5 hours. Short and flat underfoot; the only effort is the summer heat, so walk it early and give the afternoon to Phaselis.
Getting there
Public transport access between Tekirova and Phaselis 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 21 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 20 (Çıralı to Tekirova (Coastal Route)) to stage 21 (Beycik to Gedelme via Tahtalı (Mountain Alternative)), 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.