Average rating Cycling in South West Turkey

Explore the beautiful and diverse area of south west Turkey on a week's cycling holiday! From coastal roads to mountain passes, take in hidden ancient Lycian towns, enjoying Turkish hospitality along the way!

South west Turkey has it all really. Beautiful Mediterranean coastline, known locally as the 'turquoise coast', stunning beaches and a deeply rich history. Home to the ancient Lycian people, the area is crammed full of archaeological sites to explore. Whilst not much is known about the enigmatic Lycians, their legacies continue to impact modern life today. They were the first federation to have embraced democracy and their ideals are said to have influenced the American constitution. They can also lay claim to one of the world's most famous and loved figures, Father Christmas. Before taking up residency in the North Pole, he was actually living in the village of Demre.

This holiday sees you exploring the area by bike. Passing along the fabulous coastline, through pine forests and high mountain passes, you will get to see some of the region's rich history first hand. You'll see the eerie town of Kaya Koy, left deserted in 1923 after its Greek residents were repatriated to Greece. You will also visit Xanthos, the ancient capital of Lycia. Dating back to the 8th Century BC, this Unesco World Heritage site is littered with ancient remains to explore. Swapping your bikes for kayaks, you can paddle the still waters to glimpse the town of Dolchiste, sunk by an earthquake back in the 2nd Century. Your trip culminates in a visit to the ancient city of Olympos, where you can enjoy exploring astounding ruins, temples & amphitheatres before heading for a well earned rest at the beach!

This is a cycling tour for experienced cyclists – on average you cover 40-50 km a day - so you need to be in good shape and have some previous cycling experience. There is, however, a support vehicle, so if you need a break, you can catch a lift. There is a nice balance of cycling and culture on this trip, you get a chance to look around the ancient cities and do some sightseeing, so an interest in history, whilst not mandatory, will help you get the most out of the trip. You will be in a group - the maximum size is 12 and the minimum is 6, so hermits beware, there will be some elements of socialising.

The emphasis is on going local, so accommodation and food, whilst of a good standard, will be of the local and authentic variety, rather than 5 star.
Due to the nature of the cycling, children must be aged 16 and over to participate.

Getting there

Two airports serve the area. Dalaman is the closest but Antalya is also a possibility depending on availability of charter (flight only) tickets.

Price includes

Pice is per person, departures are guaranteed when two people are booked on a date. Price includes roadbike, permanent technical support vehicle, professional English speaking cycle guide, 6 dinners, 6 lunches, 7 breakfasts, snacks and water during the cycling, outdoor insurance, accommodation in mid range/upper range hotels, T-shirt, half day sea kayaking, entrance fees for ancient cities as mentioned in itinerary.

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

Some previous experience is needed