Fethiye – A great place to stroll, walk, hike & trek

by long-term Fethiye resident Jon Graham 28.03.2024

Fethiye & the surrounding areas have some features that we all benefit from. Firstly, there is the climate, which is very temperate and supports a primarily outdoor lifestyle. Secondly,
there is the scenery which includes wonderful beaches, pine clad mountains, green valleys and wonderful calming rivers and waterways. Finally, there is the history, the remains of which
are literally scattered all over the region. This is an environment that supports great fresh air and a healthy lifestyle for those that get out and about.

One of the best ways to get the best out of all of this is to go “walking.” Going out for regular walks has been an important part of my life since I first landed in Turkey 24 years ago. In that
time, I have helped develop and maintain walking routes along and around the Lycian Way. I have also offered self-guided and guided walking holidays along most sections of the Lycian
Way. Since moving to Fethiye I have walked many parts of the Western end of the Lycian Way and joined a number of the local walking groups. I have also explored some of the other
walking routes around Fethiye the details of which are on online sites that support independent walking.

Two Views of the Aquaduct at Deliklikemer that Supplied Water to city of Patara

For me, walking has helped me maintain a reasonable level of fitness and has supported my recovery from several debilitating illnesses. The support of positive mental health that comes
from regular exercise is well documented and is something most walkers enjoy.

Throughout all these various activities I have met some wonderful people (on the routes & in walking groups) and seen some fabulous scenery & historical sites. I have developed a deep
appreciation of the spring flowers of the region and have documented over 400 individual species. I have also come to appreciate the wildlife that you can encounter along the way.

Turkey is home to a vast number of flower species and many are unique to Turkey (endemic). If you enjoy the flowers you can see on your walks here is a link to a video that will tell you a
lot about them. It’s presented by Dr. Patrick Harding who is explaining what we did when we ran walking tours to explore the flora and fauna around Adrasan (on the Lycian Way near Antalya).

To read and download the full ‘Walking Review’ by Jon please click here.

In the guide you will find out what walking is available in the area and how you can best find out about it. This will comprise overviews of: –

  • the long, point-to-point walking trails such as the Lycian Way
  • the walking groups in the area
  • the online resources that are available to help you find your own walks
  • a few points to help stay safe whilst you are walking

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