Lycian Way: Ölüdeniz to Patara

The most convenient starting point for the trek is Ölüdeniz, a seaside resort easily accessible by dolmuş (local bus) or taxi from the town of Fethiye. Fethiye is well served by long-distance buses, and the nearest airport is Dalaman.

A steep climb from Ovacık up old cobbled steps, with sweeping views down over the Ölüdeniz lagoon. The route winds round the flank of Babadağ via Kirme, through pine forests and hamlets, to Faralya, perched high above the Valley of the Butterflies.

A short, classic hike through the hinterland: pine forests, a walk above the Valley of the Butterflies and through the hilltop village of Kabak. The route ends at a wild cove with a pebble beach, bungalows and a hippy vibe: it’s well worth spending a night or two here.

The most challenging day, featuring a steep climb to Alınca (make sure you take plenty of water) at the foot of vertiginous cliffs, followed by a long, spectacular ridge walk above the sea to Gey (Yediburunlar), facing the ‘Seven Capes’.

A wild and isolated stretch via Bel: winding paths, abandoned terraces, pine and juniper trees. Signposting is sometimes faint in the undergrowth, so stay alert and keep your GPS to hand. A long descent to Fort D- and on to the hamlet of Gavurağılı. Patara Beach will have to wait until tomorrow.

Walk down through the forest to the ruins of Pydnai, which you pass through via a small gate, then on to Patara beach. Transfer by dolmuş or taxi after the small bridge over the river to visit Xanthos (UNESCO) and then Gelemiş to see the ancient city of Patara: the theatre, the restored Lycian assembly hall and the colonnaded street.

From Gelemiş, walk or take a dolmuş or taxi to the town of Kalkan, where you can catch a long-distance coach to Fethiye, Antalya or elsewhere. On the way, you’ll come across the impressive Roman aqueduct at Delikkemer – a 12-metre-high wall supporting a water conduit made of perforated stone blocks.