The Carian way in the south-western part of Turkey is one of the most scenic routes that the country has to offer. The hike goes along the magnificent coastal landscape which is divided into countless small and large peninsulas and through dense, green forests with white glowing rocks above the sea. During the hike you will experience a constant change in scenery that will show you the diversity of Turkey’s nature.
Tour highlights:
♦ Hydas – visit the ruins of the ancient city dating back to the Hellenistic period
♦ Loryma – an ancient town and Episcopal see in the Roman province of Caria
♦ Bay of Gökova – enjoy a fantastic view over the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival
Transfer from Dalaman airport (it takes about 2 1/2 hours) to Bozburun on the peninsula bearing the same name.
Day 2: Ancient Hydas & Carian tomb
After a transfer to the peaceful village of Turgut, the Karian Trail will take you across olive groves and woody slopes to the ruins of the ancient city of Hydas, which is located on a narrow ridge. Enjoy the panoramic view over numerous mountains and bays! After passing the tomb of a Carian princess, you will hike to the idyllic cascades and small waterfalls of a mountain stream. In Bayır, you can enjoy a cup of tea under a mighty plane tree. Transfer back to the hotel.
Walking time: 5 hrs.
Day 3: East coast and Amos
Transfer to Bayır. You will hike through a spectacular landscape over a high plateau up to a mountain saddle. Continuing along the coast, you will finally reach the bay of Kumlubük, whose beach invites you to take a warm and relaxing bath. During the transfer back to the hotel, there is a short stop at the ruins of the ancient city of Amos with its Greek theater and magnificent views of the Bay of Marmaris.
Walking time: 4 ½ hrs.
Day 4: Loryma Bay
Today's trek starts at the small harbor Serce. Through karstic landscape, you will walk along the coast with magnificent views over the numerous bays. Finally, you will reach the remote Loryma Bay, where the ancient city of Loryma is located on a small peninsula. A short detour is optional at this point. Inland, you hike back over a plateau with gnarled old shadow trees. A shorter version of the tour is also possible.
Walking time: 4 or 5 ½ hrs.
Day 5: Journey to the coast
Transfer to the Bahceli farmhouse. Through a terraced high valley your path goes up to a saddle from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the sea. With a view over the deep Aegean Sea, a panoramic path leads you high above the coast. After reaching the coastal town Selimiye, transfer to Akyaka.
Walking time: 4 hrs.
Day 6: Bay of Gökova
From Akyaka, the hike leads you mainly through the vast old forests along the coastal slopes. You will enjoy the beautiful views on the bay of Gökova. From a restaurant by the sea, transfer back to Akyaka
Walking time: 4 ½ hrs.
Day 7: Mount Sakar
At the end of your tour, you will enjoy a charming hike with a "mountainous character". From Turnalı it goes up to the edge of the hill under the towering rock faces of Mount Sakar - the perfect place for a rest with a magnificent view of the mountains of the Datca Peninsula! A historic serpentine path leads you to the hamlet of Kiransahili, and from here you transfer back to the hotel.
Walking time: 4 ½ hrs.
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to the airport (about 1 hour) and return journey.
Gallery
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Most of you, who are used to walking/cycling during a long weekend, will be in condition to cope with a tour of this level. You should be in a good health condition. We have successive days of longer and more difficult walking and days of lighter walking/cycling. Some parts of the day routes are done at a higher altitude. The paths are in good condition. We walk/cycle for 5/7h a day.
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