Üçağız to Andriake/Demre
Stage 13 of the Lycian Way — Üçağız to Demre, mixed terrain.
About this stage
A varied stage from Üçağız to the town of Demre (ancient Myra), passing through farmland and over hills. Demre is home to the spectacular rock-cut tombs and Roman theatre of Myra, the Church of St Nicholas, and the massive Roman granary at Andriake harbour. This is one of the most archaeologically rich stages on the trail.
Stage highlights
- Myra rock-cut tombs and theatre
- Church of St Nicholas (Santa Claus)
- Andriake Roman granary
- Kekova views on descent
What to expect on the trail
The terrain mixes coastal cliffs, forest paths and open ridges, often with archaeological sites along the way. Varied underfoot and visually rewarding.
Water is available at intervals along the route, but plan refills carefully. Top up at every village fountain or natural spring you pass; gaps of 2-3 hours between sources are common.
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.
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 Üçağız and Demre 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 13 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 12 (Aperlae to Üçağız) to stage 14 (Demre to Finike), 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.