How long is Stage 16 of the Lycian Way and how long does it take?

Stage 16 is 8 km long. Estimated hiking time: 2 to 3 hours.

How difficult is the Aperlai → Üçağız → Kalekoy stage?

Rated Easy. Elevation gain: +50m, loss: -50m.

Is water available on Stage 16 of the Lycian Way?

Water availability: Available. Always carry at least 2 liters as conditions can change.

Is there mobile signal on Stage 16?

Mobile signal: Good. Connectivity is generally reliable on this stage.

Home›Routes›Stage 16

STAGE 16Easy

Aperlai → Üçağız → Kalekoy

Stage Overview

📏

Distance

8 km

⏱

Duration

2–3 hrs

⬆️

Ascent

+50 m

⬇️

Descent

-50 m

💧

Water

Available

📶

Signal

Good

🗺️

Region

Kas

🔴⚪

Waymarks

Red-White

Elevation Profile

Route Description

One of the most iconic stages. Views over Kekova Island and the partially submerged city of Dolchiste are among the most photographed on the trail.

✨ Highlights

✓Kekova Island views

✓Sunken city of Dolchiste

✓Simena castle

✓Üçağız fishing village

⚠️ Watch Out

!Boat taxi option available at Aperlai if needed

← Prev

Boğazcık → Aperlai

Kalekoy → Kapaklı → Çayağzı

GPS & Navigation

Open in your favorite hiking app

🗺 View on Wikiloc Download Full GPX View on OpenStreetMap

💡 Quick Tips

→Start before 8am to beat the heat

→Carry 2+ litres of water at all times

→Book accommodation in advance in high season

→Trekking poles highly recommended

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Trail Updates

Real-time conditions from hikers on the trail

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Stage Guide

Everything you need to know before you walk

Stage 16 delivers the most iconic view on the Lycian Way: the panorama over Kekova Island and the submerged ruins of the ancient city of Dolchiste, partially sunken after an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. The ruins — walls, staircases, cisterns — are clearly visible through the water from the clifftop path above.

The arrival at Kaleköy (ancient Simena) is one of the great moments of the entire trail. The village clusters around a Crusader castle on a rocky promontory above a perfect harbour. The castle is worth climbing for the views. Several waterfront restaurants serve fresh fish.

This is a stage where you will want to slow down and stay longer than planned.

Key advice: Kaleköy is accessible only by foot or boat. It gets busy with day-trippers from Üçağız arriving by boat — arrive on foot to appreciate it at its quietest. Book accommodation in advance in peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential information for hiking Stage 16