Uzunyurt: Hiking the Lycian Way and exploring the landscape near Faralya

The area known as Faralya lies in the Uzunyurt neighborhood. Faralya is situated on a south-facing slope at the foot of Babadağ, directly above Butterfly Valley. The Lycian Way passes through the settlement, while natural and cultural features add to the destination’s character.

Hiking the Lycian Way

The fully marked Lycian Way is a long-distance hiking route that passes through Faralya in Uzunyurt. From the settlement of Kirme, follow the trail down to the settlement of Faralya. At the end of Faralya, follow the trail as it leaves the paved road and climbs to the left. These trail points help you follow the route through the settlement.

The section from Faralya toward Kabak passes through scrubland and mostly pine forest, offering expansive sea views. At a junction before Faralya, there is a viewpoint overlooking Butterfly Valley. Along the route, you can therefore take in two distinct scenes: the forested landscape toward Kabak and the view of the valley.

Nature and coast nearby

Nearby Kabak Valley is a protected natural area with numerous endemic plants. A path descends into the valley from the upper area and offers views of the entire valley. Cennet Bay has a clean, undeveloped sandy beach with no buildings or facilities. Aktaş Beach is small and can be reached via a poor forest road.

Nearby Butterfly Valley was designated a first-degree nature reserve on February 8, 1995, and closed to all construction. One path in the valley leads to Faralya, while another leads to waterfalls. The path from Butterfly Valley to Faralya is very steep and requires help with ropes at one or two points. This route description is especially relevant when assessing the trail to Faralya.

Local orientation and connections

Faralya is a good place to stop for a break before continuing by road. It has a market and other shopping options; individual shops may change. Faralya residents serve meals and village breakfasts in their homes. If you plan to have a meal there, please bear in mind that offerings can vary from one household to another.

From Ölüdeniz, two different connections serve the area: a boat trip to Butterfly Valley takes about half an hour, while a dolmuş travels through Faralya, also known as Uzunyurt, and continues to Kabak. The trips have different destinations. Before planning your journey, check the current timetable for the connection you intend to use.

Cultural connections

Hisar Mahallesi in Faralya, also known as Uzunyurt, is protected for its archaeological and natural heritage. Remains of the Lycian settlement of Perdikia, dating to the 4th century BCE, can also be found in and around Faralya, also known as Uzunyurt. These historical features add an archaeological dimension to the area’s natural landscape and hiking trails.

For the broader travel overview: Fethiye.