When Is the Best Time to Walk the Lycian Way? Weather & Month-by-Month Guide

“The route changes with the seasons. You’ll never walk the same trail twice.”
— Kate Clow, creator of the Lycian Way

She’s right. This path doesn’t just stretch across geography. It stretches across time. One month it smells of wild thyme and fresh rain. Another, it echoes with cicadas and the crunch of dry pine needles underfoot.

Hiking the Lycian Way isn’t about finding the perfect time. It’s about choosing your moment — when the trail matches the pace you’re after, the weather you can handle, and the kind of magic you’re hoping to find.

Why Timing Matters on the Lycian Way

The Lycian Way doesn’t feel the same in every season. Spring brings wildflowers and cool mornings. Summer turns up the heat. Autumn slows things down with golden light. Winter? Quiet, green, sometimes misty.

Spanning over 500 km from Fethiye to Hisarönü, the trail ranges from sea level to 1,800 meters, meaning altitude plays a big role. Coastal paths bask in Mediterranean warmth, while mountain sections like Tahtalı Dağı face cooler, windier conditions. Your timing affects more than the weather, it changes how far you can walk, what’s open, and even who you meet along the trail.

Month-by-Month Guide to Lycian Way Weather and Hiking Conditions

Not every month on the Lycian Way feels the same. Some offer cool air and wildflowers, others bring heat, crowds, or quiet winter skies. In this section, you’ll find what each month is really like — weather, trail conditions, and tips from the ground.

 🌫️January on the Lycian Way

January is for quiet walkers. The kind who don’t mind a little cold, a little mud, and a lot of silence. The trail is almost empty. The pine trees drip with mist. You can walk for hours hearing nothing but the sea and your own breath.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in January is cool and damp, especially in the mornings. Along the coast, daytime temperatures hover around 10 to 15°C. At night, it can drop close to freezing. In higher areas like Alınca or the Bel ridge, you might feel temperatures between 5 and 10°C — and sometimes colder. Tahtalı Dağı and similar peaks over 1,500 meters may see snow or frost.
• Trail conditions: Coastal paths are usually walkable, though shaded areas can be muddy and slippery. Routes above 1,000 meters are risky this time of year — cold, wet, and sometimes covered in fog or ice. After heavy rain, trail markers may fade or get hidden under leaves. Offline maps or a GPS app like Wikiloc can really help.
• What it feels like: It’s not for everyone, but it’s beautiful in its own way. Olive trees being pruned. The smell of wet earth. Migrating birds overhead. No tour groups. Just the raw landscape, quietly waiting for spring.
• Local tip: Stick to the western coastline between Fethiye and Faralya. It’s the most walkable in winter, and some guest houses stay open — though many close, so call ahead or bring your own shelter just in case.

🌧️ February on the Lycian Way

February feels like winter exhaling. The days are a little longer, the air a little lighter. You might spot almond blossoms in sheltered spots, or hear the first spring birds calling from a hillside.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in February is still cool, with coastal daytime temperatures between 12 and 17°C. Mornings are often misty, and evenings drop to 5–10°C. Rain is still common, especially in the western parts of the trail like around Fethiye and Kaş. Eastern areas such as Demre or Finike tend to be drier. Up in the mountains, anything above 1,000 meters stays cold, and snow may linger near 1,500 meters.
• Trail conditions: Coastal sections like Patara, Kalkan, and Kaş are usually walkable after a few dry days. Forested areas remain muddy, and some higher inland routes are best avoided. Rain can blur or wash out trail markings, so it’s smart to have GPS or an offline map with you.
• What it feels like: This is a good time for slow, thoughtful hiking. You’ll likely have ancient sites to yourself. Streams are full, air is clean, and wildflowers start showing in low meadows. Some days feel like early spring. Others snap back to winter without warning.
• Local tip: Base yourself in a coastal town and plan short day hikes. Keep your gear dry, layer your clothes, and ask locals about recent trail conditions. This is a month where flexibility pays off.

🌿 March on the Lycian Way

March is when the Lycian Way starts to stretch and yawn. The trail shakes off its winter coat. Hills turn green again, and tiny wildflowers begin to pop up between the rocks.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in March is mild but still a little unpredictable. Along the coast, daytime temperatures range from 15 to 20°C. Mornings and evenings are cool — sometimes around 10°C or below  while afternoons can feel surprisingly warm in the sun. Higher areas, especially above 1,000 meters like the Bel or Sidyma ridgelines, stay colder. At 1,500 meters, like Tahtalı Dağı, you’re looking at 8–15°C and the chance of lingering snow in shaded parts.
• Trail conditions: Most of the trail starts to reopen. Coastal routes are in great shape after a few dry days. Some higher paths might still be muddy or slow to dry, especially in forested areas. Streams are flowing, and water is easy to find. Keep in mind that windy days can sneak up inland, so bring a windproof layer.
• What it feels like: It’s the kind of month where everything smells clean — pine, wet earth, wild herbs. Birds are louder. Light is softer. Villages begin to stir. You may see tortoises in the low valleys or butterflies near the coast.
• Local tip: The section between Kaş and Demre is especially beautiful in March. It’s quiet, full of flowers, and the light along the cliffs is just right. Trail markers are usually visible, but after winter rains, it’s always smart to double-check at intersections.

🌸 April on the Lycian Way

April is when the Lycian Way feels fully alive. The hills are covered in color, bees hum in the air, and the light has that golden spring glow that makes everything look a little magical.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in April is just right for hiking. Along the coast, daytime temperatures usually sit between 18 and 24°C. Mornings start crisp, around 12–15°C, and evenings cool off again after sunset. Inland and higher up, like on the Alınca–Bel ridge, it can still be chilly — around 10–15°C — especially if clouds roll in. Rain is rare, but a passing spring shower isn’t impossible.
• Trail conditions: Most routes are dry, clear, and well-marked. Coastal paths are in great shape. High mountain sections like the slopes of Tahtalı Dağı are finally opening up, but may still hold some moisture or patches of snow in shaded gullies. Rivers and streams are easy to cross, and water is plentiful.
• What it feels like: This is when the Lycian Way shows off. Red poppies, lavender, wild thyme, and even orchids line the trail. Everything smells fresh. You can hike in light clothes, rest in the shade, and maybe even take a dip in the sea.
• Local tip: The trail between Faralya and Alınca is a dream in April. Sea views, spring flowers, and quiet moments in the pine forest. If you plan to stay in a pension, book ahead — this is the high season for walkers.

🌼 May on the Lycian Way

May feels balanced. The wildflowers are still around, the sea is warming up, and the trails offer long, beautiful days without the heavy heat of summer.

• Weather: TLycian Way weather in May is warm but not overwhelming. Coastal temperatures range from 22 to 28°C, with mornings around 15–18°C. Evenings are pleasant, and higher sections — like routes above 1,000 meters — stay cooler, often between 15 and 20°C. Rain is rare, skies are mostly clear, and humidity is still low.
• Trail conditions: This is one of the best times to cover long distances. The ground is dry and stable, trail markings are visible, and there’s still enough shade in forested areas to keep things comfortable. Springs and small streams still flow in many parts, especially near higher villages.
• What it feels like: You can hike early, swim in the afternoon, and sit outside in the evening with a warm breeze on your face. Villages are calm but active. The scent of thyme and citrus lingers in the air. You might hear the call of hoopoes in olive groves or catch a glimpse of turtles along quiet beaches.
• Local tip: Try the section between Kaş and Aperlae. It’s quiet, scenic, and full of small surprises — ancient ruins, flower-lined trails, and hidden coves. Mornings and late afternoons are perfect for walking. Bring plenty of water and a hat.

☀️ June on the Lycian Way

June brings light and heat. The trail is still beautiful, especially in the early hours, but by midday, the sun takes control. It’s a month for early risers and sea lovers.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in June is hot and dry. Coastal temperatures often reach 30–34°C by the afternoon. Mornings start around 20–22°C, and evenings are warm and breezy. In inland and higher areas — like Tahtalı Dağı or the Geyikbayırı ridge lines — temperatures sit between 24 and 28°C. Rain is unlikely, skies are clear, and UV levels are high.
• Trail conditions: Trails are completely dry and easy to follow. Dusty in places, especially on exposed ridges, but safe underfoot. Water sources begin to dry up, especially inland, so you’ll need to plan your hydration carefully. Shaded areas become precious. Forested sections offer a welcome break from the heat.
• What it feels like: Early mornings are golden — soft light, quiet air, and long shadows. By midday, it’s better to be off the trail and in the sea. Cicadas sing non-stop, and lizards sunbathe on warm rocks. The air smells of hot pine and dry earth.
• Local tip: Walk early, finish before noon, and rest in the shade. Carry at least 3 to 4 liters of water per person. Shaded routes like Karaöz or the forested paths above Kabak are great options. This isn’t the month to push distance — it’s about timing and enjoying the small things.

🔥 July & August on the Lycian Way

These are the hottest months on the trail. The sun dominates the sky. The air stays still. Even the trees seem to move slower.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in July and August is intense. Coastal temperatures often exceed 35°C during the day. Inland and rocky sections feel even hotter. Mornings begin around 25°C. Nights stay warm, rarely dropping below 20°C. Higher areas like Tahtalı or Musa Dağı reach 28–30°C in the afternoon. Rain is nearly absent. The sky is always blue. The heat is constant.
• Trail conditions: Everything is dry. Trail markings are visible. The ground is stable. But shade is rare and water sources are limited. Some coastal springs, like those between Çıralı and Olympos, still run. Inland, most natural sources are dry. Forest fires are a seasonal risk, especially in exposed pine areas.
• What it feels like: Mornings are manageable. After that, walking becomes uncomfortable and even dangerous in open areas. The best days are when you walk early, rest during peak heat, and swim in the late afternoon. This is a time for short walks, boat connections, or basecamp-style stays.
• Local tip: Çıralı to Olympos is a good option. It offers shade, sea access, and shorter walking distances. Always carry at least 3 to 4 liters of water. Wear a hat, take breaks in the shade, and avoid hiking between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

🍂 September on the Lycian Way

September brings balance. The crowds thin out, the light softens, and the trail becomes gentle again. It’s still warm, but the edge of summer starts to fade.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in September is warm and dry, especially in the first half of the month. Coastal temperatures range from 28 to 32°C early on, dropping to 25–28°C later in the month. Mornings are around 18–20°C. High areas like the Alacaören ridge or Tahtalı sit comfortably between 20 and 25°C. The sea stays warm, often between 24 and 26°C.
• Trail conditions: The trail is in great shape. Everything is dry and stable underfoot. Some inland water sources may still be low, but coastal villages offer plenty of places to refill. Trail markings are clear and visible. The days are still long, but less harsh than in July or August.
• What it feels like: You can start a little later, take your time, and enjoy both walking and swimming. The sun isn’t as aggressive, but it’s still strong. Figs ripen along the trail. Bees buzz through the last blooms. It’s the kind of month where you can walk all day if you pace it right.
• Local tip: The section between Demre and Finike is especially beautiful in September. Quiet beaches, shady olive groves, and glowing afternoon light. Pick a fig from a roadside tree — it’s part of the season.

🍁 October on the Lycian Way

October is when the trail slows down in the best way. The light turns golden, the air cools just enough, and every step feels unhurried.

• Weather: LLycian Way weather in October is nearly perfect. Coastal temperatures range from 22 to 27°C during the day. Mornings are fresh, usually 15 to 18°C. Higher elevations — like the Alınca–Bel route or sections near Tahtalı — sit around 15 to 20°C. The sea is still warm enough for a swim, typically 22 to 24°C. Rain is rare but possible in the last week of the month.
• Trail conditions: The trail is fully open and comfortable. Dust from summer settles, and water starts returning to streams and springs. Forest paths feel cool again. Trail markings are easy to follow. It’s the kind of month where you can walk longer and rest less.
• What it feels like: You can walk all day without overheating. The afternoons are soft and golden. The villages are still open, but without the summer buzz. It’s pomegranate season. Birdsong shifts as migrations begin. Everything feels calm, full, and a little bit nostalgic.
• Local tip: The route between Alınca and Bel is stunning this time of year. Sunsets paint the cliffs in orange and rose. Bring a light jacket — evenings cool off fast, especially if you’re camping or sleeping higher up.

🌬️ November on the Lycian Way

November is quiet and a little unpredictable. Some days are crisp and clear. Others bring mist and soft rain. If you like stillness and don’t mind a little uncertainty, this is your month.

• Lycian Way weather in November is cool with more moisture in the air. Coastal temperatures range between 16 and 22°C. Mornings start around 10 to 14°C and evenings cool quickly. Rain becomes more frequent, especially in the west near Fethiye and Kaş. Higher regions like Tahtalı or Mount Musa drop to 10 to 15°C. The sea cools to around 20 to 22°C but is still swimmable for many.
• Trail conditions: Coastal routes are still walkable, though some shaded forest paths turn muddy. Higher sections can get slippery after rain. Fallen leaves and overgrowth may hide trail markers. Bring a map or use GPS to stay oriented.
• What it feels like: The trail feels reflective. You might walk for hours without seeing anyone. Shepherds pass with their goats. Villages slow down. Bird migrations reach their peak. The landscape is calm but full of quiet motion.
• Local tip: Try the stretch from Patara to Kalkan. It stays open and airy with fewer forested areas. Keep your route flexible and check weather updates before each hike. A drizzle can turn into a storm without much warning.

🌫️ December on the Lycian Way

December is when the Lycian Way feels like it’s holding its breath. The trail is still there, but it whispers. The sea is grey-blue. The air smells of wet earth and pine.

• Weather: Lycian Way weather in December is cool and often damp. Along the coast, daytime temperatures stay between 12 and 17°C. Mornings and evenings are cold, dropping to 5 to 10°C. Higher elevations can fall close to freezing. On peaks like Tahtalı, expect frost and even light snow in shaded areas. Rain and fog are common, especially in the west.
• Trail conditions: Lower coastal paths are still accessible but often muddy or slippery. Mountain routes are not advised unless you are experienced and well-equipped. Trail markers can be hidden under wet leaves or faded from rain. A GPS or offline map is essential.
• What it feels like: It’s a time for solitude. The forest is quiet. You’ll hear more birds than people. Even the wind feels slower. There’s a beauty in the stillness, but it’s not an easy beauty. It asks for patience and preparation.
• Local tip: Base yourself in towns like Kaş or Faralya and take short walks on clear days. Bring waterproof gear and warm clothing. Always check with locals about conditions. In winter, local knowledge matters more than any guidebook.

Seasonal Tips for Hiking the Lycian Way

Each season brings its own rhythm to the Lycian Way. These quick tips, based on local knowledge and repeat hikers experience, will help you stay safe, comfortable, and one step ahead on the trail.

• November is the Lycian Way’s quiet gem. Cool weather, mild sea temperatures around 20–22°C, and no crowds..
• Start hiking before sunrise during hot months. Cooler, calmer, more scenic.
• Skip high inland routes in winter. Coastal paths are safer and easier.
• Spring is best for wildflowers and birdwatching. Bring a camera or binoculars.
• Watch for harvest seasons. September means figs and pomegranates along the trail.
• Always check local trail conditions. Weather changes fast, especially after rain.
• Carry more water than you think. Especially in June, July, and August.
• Pack layers, even in spring. Coastal weather can shift by evening.
• Avoid overgrown routes after heavy rain. Some paths get slippery or blocked.
• Locals are your best resource. Ask about trail sections, buses, or weather.
  

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Time for Your Lycian Way Journey

There’s no single best time to hike the Lycian Way. The trail shifts with the seasons, sometimes bursting with life, sometimes whispering in silence. What matters is knowing what you want from the journey.

If you love flowers and cool mornings, spring will feel like home. If you crave stillness and open skies, winter might surprise you. And if you want warm days and a swim after your walk, early autumn is hard to beat.

Look at the weather, yes. But also listen to your own rhythm. The Lycian Way isn’t just about where you walk. It’s about how the trail meets you, season by season.

Ready to walk your own path?
We offer carefully designed Lycian Way tours that match the season, your pace, and your sense of adventure. No stress, no rush — just you, the trail, and everything this land has to share.
Start your Lycian Way journey here.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Lycian Way Weather and Seasons

What is the best time of year to walk the Lycian Way?
April, May, September, and October offer the most comfortable weather for hiking.

What month is best for the Lycian Way?
April is ideal for beginners. Clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming nature.

What is the best time to go to Turkey for the Lycian Way?
Spring and early autumn are perfect for hiking conditions and open facilities.

How is the weather on the Lycian Way in summer?
Very hot, often over 35°C. Hikes should be done early in the morning or avoided during midday.

Can you hike the Lycian Way in winter?
Yes, but only on lower coastal sections. Rain and cold affect higher areas.

Is April a rainy month on the Lycian Way?
Occasional showers happen, but trails are mostly dry and open.

Does it rain a lot in November on the Lycian Way?
Yes, especially in the second half of the month. Expect wetter conditions and muddy trails.

Is the Lycian Way too hot in July or August?
Yes, especially inland. Stick to shaded coastal paths and avoid peak afternoon hours.