Xanthos to Patara
Stage 7 of the Lycian Way — Xanthos to Patara, coastal terrain.
About this stage
A gentle coastal stage from the ancient city of Xanthos to the 18km-long sand beach at Patara. The trail follows the edge of the Xanthos River before climbing over low hills to reach the sea. Patara is the birthplace of St Nicholas (Santa Claus) and features a spectacular Roman triumphal arch, a 5,000-seat theatre, and the oldest known lighthouse in the world.
Stage highlights
- Patara 18km sand beach
- Roman triumphal arch
- Ancient lighthouse and theatre
- Birthplace of St Nicholas
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 431 m above sea level on this stage — 727 m total ascent and 808 m descent over 12 km.
This is an easy stage suitable for hikers of any fitness level. A good choice for a warm-up day, a recovery day after a tougher section, or as a half-day walk if you start late.
Getting there
Public transport access between Xanthos and Patara 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 7 of 27, part of the Western Lycian Coast section — the western coastal section running from Fethiye through Ölüdeniz, Faralya and the Patara dunes towards Kalkan. It connects stage 6 (Bel to Letoon/Xanthos) to stage 8 (Patara to Kalkan), 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.