Lycian way, one of the most picturesque routes in the world, starts from Hisarönü and stretches to Antalya. Over 310 miles long, it takes its name from the ancient civilization Lycia, which once ruled the area. Being Turkey’s very first long-distance walking route, it was made in order to identify and protect some of the country’s old roads. The route is now used by trekkers, hikers, mountain bikers, as well as horseback riders and now it is your turn to discover its beauties and travel through history on horseback. Ride through forests of pines giving way to magnificent sea views at high elevations.
This tour is for experienced riders only, where we will be riding for 4-5 hours daily with well mannered, high-spirited Arab and Anatolian-Arab breed mares.
You will arrive at Dalaman Airport and private transfers will take you to your accommodation, which will be around the equestrian center. Here, you will meet the team and have dinner. After dinner, you will have the opportunity to enjoy your lodging and relax before your first day on horseback.
After a refreshing night’s sleep, you will enjoy delicious traditional Turkish breakfast accompanied by stunning sea view. Following the breakfast, you will depart to the equestrian center to meet the horses. After an introduction and taking and saddling your horse, the first day’s ride will be in the forest around Kuzdere for 2 hours. You’ll see orange and pomegranate gardens, ruins of ancient village, springs and small palm forests. After riding you can relax near the pool or the beach and prepare to set off tomorrow.
Today you start the progressive route following breakfast. After 1.5−2 hours of riding the group will arrive at a beautiful canyon with a mountain river. Drink clean fresh water, swim and take pictures. Then start climbing the highest mountain of the region — Tahtali (7760 ft above the sea level). The road is perfect for trots and canters. The next stop is in the village called Gedelma, where you’ll see a castle and a very old tree about 2500 years old.
Spend the night in 150 year old local village house living like Turkish family.
Start with breakfast and feeding horses. Then climb the Tahtali mountain again with the highest point at 2560 ft. The weather will change as you reach the territory without the trees, covered with clouds you can literally touch. After reaching the highest point start to move down until you reach Beycik — a village with beautiful mountain and sea view. Rest here to eat, take care of the horses, take showers and stay in the village in rooms overnight.
Start down to sea level which will take 6−7 hours. The road is surrounded with beautiful bays and untouched nature. After crossing the biggest bay arrive at turtle bay for one night’s accommodation. This is a national park and only backpackers allowed. Sometimes you see no people at all today. Tents and food are already prepared for overnight. Riders can swim with or without horses.
Return to the riding center, crossing five bays with marvelous view and an ancient city of Phaselis (2000 years old). This is the most dangerous climbing part as the path to Phaselis is narrow and rocky so you’ll have to walk beside your horse for some time.
After a lunch break you can trot and gallop through the village of Tekirova and end at the ranch.
After the last breakfast at the hotel, you will be checking out and be transferred to Dalaman Airport for your flight.
This itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted at the guide's discretion due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
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This trip - the ancient Turkish culture, the exciting horses, the majestic city and countryside - was perfect.
Patty Pittman
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