Region Four
Demre - Karaöz
Day 13: Demre - Alacadağ Nature Reserve
Distance: 28km/17mi
Elevation Gain: 2,172m
Elevation Loss: 632m
Max Elevation: 1,784m
Day 13 is a big day with over 2,000m of elevation and limited water sources so prepare yourself and make sure you are fully stocked up for two-three days of hiking. This region will involve you carrying your own water for just over 30kms so make sure you know how much your body needs. I took three litres as it allowed me to keep my bag as light as possible which meant I could hike fast and smoothly. Learn what you need and don't worry as there are a few goat farmers that live up there, it's just nice to be self sufficient.
I would also advise that whilst you pass Myra today, it would be better to visit it on a different day as you will need to use all the time possible for covering as much distance as you can. I'm not saying rush this section but instead use your time efficiently. It should also be noted that this day involves a lot of elevation on very loose, rocky ground and the way-marks are not to the same standard as other sections as well as less people walking here means the path is harder to follow.
Try and start as early as you possible but make sure you get a good breakfast as you will need all the energy you can get. For me, I didn't end up leaving the hotel until just before 10am which wasn't ideal. Follow the road out of Demre passing by Myra on your left and crossing over the bridge to walk down through a small gathering of green houses. Keep a sharp eye out for the signs as it suddenly turns right, seemingly into someones backyard. You will have to scrabble through a couple of branches and bushed, zigzagging your way up a steep hill, until you notice it turning into a somewhat path. It looks to be a long since abandoned route into the mountains that now only gets used by fellow hikers. The going is tough and steep however after the initial climb, the navigation is easy. Keep heading up until you join a tarmac road, follow it to the right to take you into the village of Belören. There is a nice sheltered bench here as well as a couple of water sources, including a nice electric one providing cool water.
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Day 14: Alacadağ Nature Reserve - Finike
Distance: 16km/10mi
Elevation Gain: 137m
Elevation Loss: 1,684m
Max Elevation: 1,570m
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Day 15: Finike - Karaöz
Distance: 28km/17mi
Elevation Gain: 237m
Elevation Loss: 236m
Max Elevation: 85m
Day 15 is a very easy, flat day that allows you to switch off and enjoy the sea views after two very tough days. The route takes you along the D400 for the first 11-12km before turning off down a slightly quieter road, passing through the small town of Mavikent. It is possible to walk along the beach for most of the day however it can be hard work and there are quite a few streams that would require you to head back inland to cross. Another option is catching a bus along the main road stretch or all the way to Karaöz if you are short of time. Nothing particularly stands out today and you wouldn't miss much from skipping apart from saying you walked all of the Lycian Way.
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The camping spots either side of Karaöz looked great so if you wish to camp there then stock up either in Finike (big Market) or in Mavikent (small market) and have a great nights camp out on the cliffs over the sea. There are a couple of water stations along the road above the camping areas. You could even eat out in Karaöz and then make camp however this would likely mean setting up in the dark.
