About this stage
One of the most dramatic stages on the Lycian Way, from Karaöz over Cape Gelidonya to the beach village of Adrasan. The trail climbs to the iconic lighthouse perched on the cape with sweeping 360-degree views of the Taurus Mountains meeting the Mediterranean. The descent through pine forest to Adrasan Bay is magnificent.
Stage highlights
- Cape Gelidonya lighthouse
- 360-degree mountain and sea panorama
- Pine forest descent to Adrasan Bay
- Wild swimming at secluded coves
What to expect on the trail
The trail winds through pine and cedar forest, often shaded and fragrant. Surfaces are mostly soft underfoot, with some rocky sections.
Water is available at intervals along the route, but plan refills carefully. Top up at every village fountain or natural spring you pass; gaps of 2-3 hours between sources are common.
The route runs largely under tree cover, providing welcome shade through most of the walk — comfortable even in late spring or early autumn.
A challenging stage with sustained climbs and technical terrain. Allow extra time, start at first light, and carry more water than you think you'll need.
Getting there
Karaöz is a small village about 21 km (about 40 min) by road from the bus station in Kumluca, the nearest town, and about 97 km (about 1 h 55 min) from Antalya. Adrasan, at the end, is about 28 km (about 40 min) by road from Kumluca's bus station and about 93 km (about 1 h 45 min) from Antalya. At either end, arrange a taxi or a transfer through your pension.
Where this stage fits in the trail
This is stage 16 of 26, part of the Demre & Olympos section — the eastern coast around Demre, Finike, Adrasan and the ancient site of Olympos. It connects stage 15 (Finike to Karaöz) to stage 17 (Adrasan to Olympos), 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.