Based in the beautiful harbour town of Kas we enjoy gentle walks along the Turquoise Coast. We discover ruins of the original settlement of Antiphellos and hike to ancient Phellos. We explore the relics of Patara and look for signs of loggerhead turtles nesting on the golden sandy beach. We also visit the ancient city of Xanthos, trek through the foothills of the Taurus Mountains and climb to the necropolis of Simena for views over Kekova Bay.
In our second week we cruise along the Turquoise Coast in a traditional wooden'gulet'. Departing from Fethiye harbour we explore small bays and islands, discover ancient relics, and swim and snorkel in the warm clear waters that give the coast line its name. We visit the hillside village of Kalkan and the submerged ancient city of Kekova as well as revisiting Kas. There are also opportunities to sea kayak, walk Saklikent Gorge and visit historical sites such as Patara (birthplace of Saint Nicholas)
Itinerary
[+] Detailed Itinerary
1
Join Tour At Dalaman Airport. Transfer to Kas
Joining our tour in Dalaman airport, we then drive towards the engaging coastal town of Kas, one of the most beautiful on the Turkish Riviera. Set against a backdrop of steep, forested cliffs, Kas nestles amongst the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean. A charming mix of narrow, jasmine scented streets, lively cafes and a picturesque harbour, it provides us with an ideal base for our week-long exploration of Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise coast. The transfer is approximately two and a quarter hours.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Club Phellos Hotel
The Club Phellos Hotel is conveniently situated approximately five minutes walk from the centre of Kas.
The hotel has an indoor and outdoor pool as well as a pool specifically for children. Other facilities include massage, indoor and outdoor dining, a play area and bars.
Rooms at the Phellos all have satellite television, air conditioning, balconies and hair dryers.
2
Guided walking tour of Kas. Walk to Limanagzi Beach
Following a guided tour of the town, taking in the ancient Hellenistic heatre and Lycian tombs that lie littered amongst the town’s narrow streets, we then walk around the bay to Limanagzi Beach (approximately one and a half hours). After a chance to relax, enjoy the warm waters and perhaps grab a bite to eat, we then head back to Kas, either by following the coastal path back to the hotel, or else by taking a water taxi across the bay (at your own cost).
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
3
Walk to Patara Beach and Ruins. Visit Xanthos
This morning we walk from the Roman aqueduct to Patara Beach (approximately three and a half hours). After taking refreshments (not included) and time on the beach we visit the ruins of ancient Patara, one of Lycia’s principal ports under the Romans. We then drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Xanthos, the once great capital of ancient Lycia. With a history drenched in blood, Xanthos contains some impressive remains, including its acropolis, magnificent sepulchral monuments and a famous inscribed obelisk that dates back to the 5th century B.C. After the visit we drive back to Kas.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
4
Free Day
Option to visit to the Greek Island of Meis. Option to go scuba -diving (if qualified) or to take an introduction to scuba lesson. Otherwise time to explore Kas or travel to local beaches.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
5
Morning visit to Kas market. Afternoon hiking to the ruins of Phellos
Friday is market day in Kas and this morning we take a wander through its colourful stalls, before driving on to Pinarbasi for our afternoon’s walk. We hike to the ruins of ancient Phellos through a landscape of strawberry trees and scrub oak (approx 45 minutes). We then hike to the fire watchtower passing sarcophagi and ruins that have become overgrown with forest vegetation and enjoying the expansive views down to the coast, before heading back down for our transfer to Kas. Total walking time approximately 2½ hours.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
6
Walking on Mount Akdag. Afternoon free in Kas
This morning we drive near to the neighbourhood of the mountain village of Sutlegen (1,300 m),which lies on the foothills of Mount Akdag. We aim to spend around two and a half hours hiking in the shadow of the mountain, following a network of trails and tracks that take us down through a forest of cedar, pine and juniper trees, before we ascend again to rendezvous with our bus. Driving back to Kas we then have an opportunity to stop for a swim at Kapatas Beach before returning to enjoy a free afternoon in the town.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
7
Hike from Üçağiz to Simena
The village of Simena is possibly one of the most beautiful settings on the Mediterranean. A remote village community, accessible only on foot or by boat, its harbour is dotted with ancient sarcophagi (tombs), a small Roman bath and houses that cling precariously to a hillside dominated by a medieval castle. This morning we walk there from Üçağiz (approximately one hour), enjoying an opportunity to explore the necropolis and the hilltop citadel (castle entrance not included), and take in the sweeping views across the Kekova region. There is an option to travel back to Ucagiz by boat or we walk before driving back to Kas for our final evening.
Overnight Standard Hotel
in Club Phellos Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast
8
Transfer to Fethiye to join gulet
Today is the last day of the 'Walking the Turquoise Coast' tour and we transfer by bus to Fethiye harbour where we board our gulet for the 'Blue Cruise', and meet the crew. Fethiye is a market town that can trace its history back to the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos built around the harbour in the 5th or 6th Century B.C. Reminders of the town's past include Lycian rock tombs on the hillside and a Hellenistic theatre. If circumstances allow we leave Fethiye harbour in the late afternoon and head for a local bay for dinner and to overnight.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
9
To Kalkan
We sail this morning to the attractive port of Kalkan, a small fishing village built into the steep slopes of the seacliff. Kalkan offers a perfect chance to explore an old village and harbour front. From here there is the chance of an optional excursion to see the ancient city of Patara and amazing Saklikent Gorge. Patara is the birthplace of St Nicholas (Father Christmas) and is situated on the largest sandy beach in Turkey. After the visit to the site you might like to have a swim in the refreshing surf. Saklikent Gorge, situated high in the mountains above Fethiye was created by icy cold water cutting through the mountains over thousands of years. A natural wonder, the resulting canyon is 300 metres deep and 18 km long. Saklikent in Turkish means “Hidden City”. The walls are so high they cut out most of the sunlight and the fresh spring waters that flow through are freezing cold! A great refuge on a hot summer day.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10
To Kekova
Sailing east along the coast towards the deserted island of Kekova, we come across a picturesque scene where ancient ruins line the coast. Overlooking these stunning views is Simena castle, set in beautiful surroundings. We can take a walk up to explore its tiny theatre, hollowed out of the rock, and the surrounding medieval walls and tombs. This afternoon there's the chance to join your Tour Leader for an optional walk to discover the ancient coastal trails. Afterwards, heading the short distance to Gokkaya island, a sheltered bay dotted with small islands, channels and several anchorages. In the port area there are a group of islands and small coves, where we'll find a good place to anchor.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11
To Cayagzi
Sailing eastwards, we reach Cayagzi harbour. We recommend a side trip to Arycanda, one of southern Turkey's most dramatic sites, with a magnificent setting on the slopes of the Taurus mountains. The ruins are extensive, with a city stadium, large and small theatres, aqueducts and public baths. On our return, we will moor in Camlica cove, another peaceful and blissful spot in the region.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
12
To Kas via Ucagiz
Today we start sailing west to Ucagiz village. This morning we highly recommend doing a sea kayaking trip at Kekova. Here, submerged streets and buildings are visible in the crystal waters. Lycian sarcophagi (tombs) lie in the harbour bottom at Simena. This afternoon we continue sailing west to the harbour of Kas. This picturesque coastal town is one of the most beautiful of the Turkish riviera, backed by steep cliffs covered with dense green forest. You'll have time to enjoy soaking up the atmosphere at one of the many lively cafes near the picturesque harbour.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13
To Soguksu Cove and Gemiler Island
We sail from Kas to Soguksu Cove then Gemiler island. In the afternoon, we will have an opportunity to land on Gemiler Island where we visit the extensive ruins dedicated to Father Christmas. In the early ages of Christianity, the island was an important shelter for the pilgrims on the way to Jerusalem. The top pf the island offers superb views over the lovely Mediterranean coast.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
14
Sail to Tarzan Bay
As we sail to Tarzan Bay getting close to Fethiye, we will admire the wonderful views of turquoise seas. A last chance to relax and unwind before the tour ends. NB there may be situations where, due to operational reasons, we have to motor to Fethiye Harbour and moor up there.
Overnight Simple Cabin
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
15
Sail to Fethiye where tour ends
This morning we sail to Fethiye harbour where the tour ends.
Included meals: Breakfast