Walks in Kalkan & the Lycian Way

Few places in Turkey reward walkers quite like Kalkan. From gentle coastal ambles to more challenging mountain treks, this is a landscape of olive terraces, pine forest and timeworn ruins, with far‑reaching views of the Turquoise Coast.

Kalkan also sits close to the legendary Lycian Way – a long‑distance footpath of roughly 500km from Fethiye to Antalya. Celebrated by The Sunday Times as one of the world’s top walks, it links ancient cities with sea‑cliff paths and high ridges. You don’t need days of hiking to experience it: several sections are easily joined from Kalkan for a memorable taster.

All distances and times below are approximate. Routes can change with weather and maintenance; please use up‑to‑date local advice.

Patara Village to Patara Beach

Distance: 5km (plus optional 2km back to the village)
Duration: 2hrs to the beach; +45mins back to Patara village (allow 2hrs 45mins)
Level: Easy

A beautiful, low‑effort walk that threads from Patara village through pine and across vast sand dunes before meeting Patara Beach — one of Turkey’s longest, wildest strands. Combine it with time among the evocative ruins of ancient Patara and a cooling swim before returning to Kalkan.

Letoon to Xanthos

Distance: 6km
Duration: 1hr 40mins
Level: Easy

A rewarding countryside link between two connected archaeological sites. Begin at Letoon, ancient sanctuary of Leto, Artemis and Apollo, then follow field paths towards Xanthos, the former Lycian capital, where theatres, mosaics and famed tombs bring the past vividly into view.

Üzümlü Trek

Distance: 9km
Duration: 3hrs
Level: Difficult

A more demanding mountainside route with superb views and a window onto village life. Üzümlü’s mosque and tea houses offer a characterful pause, and with a short detour you may encounter traditional olive‑oil soap made by a local family. Reward your efforts with a simple trout lunch nearby.

Lycian Way – Kalkan Section

Distance: 5km
Duration: 1hr 40mins–2hrs 30mins
Level: Easy

From the edge of Kalkan you can join a waymarked stretch of the Lycian Way, climbing old stone paths between olives and hillside cisterns to broad views over the bay. It’s an accessible taste of a world‑renowned trail without committing to a full day out.

Islamlar Mountain Walk

Distance: 2km
Duration: 1hr 30mins up; 40mins down
Level: Intermediate

Starting high above the village of Islamlar, this short but satisfying hike ascends through pine and bramble to the remains of an old cistern, then continues to a ridge looking over the Bezirgan Plain. Best in cooler parts of the day; long trousers advised.

Mahal Beach Club to Ulugül Village

Distance: 2.5km each way
Duration: 1hr each way
Level: Easy

From the water’s edge at Mahal Beach Club, climb through the Kisla district before easing down to the small farming hamlet of Ulugül. Expect olive groves, village houses and a simple café for a drink before retracing your steps.

Walking in Kalkan with Discerning Collection

Whether you fancy a gentle beachside stroll or a ridge‑top panorama, the Kalkan region offers walks for every level — and many of our villas and boutique hotels sit close to the Lycian Way. Our team can suggest routes to suit the season, arrange trailhead transfers or put together a picnic. Discerning Collection guests can pick up precise directions locally from our concierge in Kalkan.