Phaselis (Turkish: Phaselis) can be reached by several routes. An easy option starts west of Çamyuva (Çamyuva) and follows the sea past several scenic beaches. The long route starts in the southern part of the village of Kuzdere (Kuzdere), while the shortest approach leads from Tekirova.
An Ancient City by the Sea
Phaselis lies on a small peninsula within Beydağları Coastal National Park, approximately 16 km west of Kemer. The city is believed to have been founded by colonists from Rhodes around the seventh century BCE; its location helped it become an important trading port. It had three harbors: the Northern, Military, and Southern harbors.
The principal ruins are grouped along the street between the Military and Southern harbors. The aqueduct, theater, agoras, baths, and remains of the city walls survive here. Most of the visible structures date from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Getting There
The archaeological site has two entrances. The main entrance is on the access-road side. The second is on the seaward side and must be reached along the coastal route.
The starting points near Çamyuva and in Kuzdere are in different places. For a linear route, mark the start, the entrance to Phaselis, and the exit in Tekirova on an offline map in advance. Also decide how you will return from the finish.
The Short Route from Tekirova
You can reach Phaselis along the Lycian Way from Tekirova. The linear section is approximately 5 km long and technically quite easy, so it is suitable for a short walk. If you return the same way, account for the additional 5 km from the outset.
The route reaches the archaeological site from the coast. Check the time needed to explore the ruins, current admission rules, and opening hours separately.
An Easy Route along the Coast
The short option starts west of Çamyuva and remains close to the sea almost throughout. Several beautiful beaches along the way provide places to stop and swim. Our easy track covered 6 km with 130 m of elevation gain.
The route is well suited to hot weather: it has no long climbs, and the beaches allow you to divide the route into short sections. Closed-toe footwear is more comfortable on uneven stones.
The Long Option from Kuzdere
The long route begins in the southern part of Kuzdere. The first section descends from the village to the sea, after which it joins the same coastal section as the easy option. Our hike covered 15 km with 440 m of elevation gain.
A large cave lies approximately halfway along the track. The main trail passes above it, so you need to find a separate descent to the cave. The descent itself is easy, but the turnoff is easy to miss. It is best to mark the cave on your offline track in advance.
It is important to assess the entire day here: after the descent, you still have the route along the coast, a visit to Phaselis, and the walk to the finish. The long option requires spare time, an offline track, and a clear return plan.
Heat and Water
There is plenty of exposed sun along the coastal sections and among the ruins, and the stones heat up quickly. During the warmer months, it is best to start early in the morning and avoid leaving long exposed sections until the middle of the day. Swimming at the beaches provides a break but does not replace resting in the shade.
It is best not to rely on water sources along the route. Carry enough for the entire walking section; the long option from Kuzdere requires more water than the short coastal track. The amount depends on the temperature and the duration of the route. You will also need a hat and sun protection.
Where to Finish the Route
Both options can be completed as linear routes ending in Tekirova (Tekirova). This is a convenient finish near the settlement, but transport back to the start must be arranged in advance. If the logistics do not work, you can turn around and return the same way. In that case, include the full distance and time for the return journey in your plan from the outset.
Our Hikes
- March 4, 2023: easy Phaselis route, 6 km with 130 m of elevation gain.
- April 16, 2023: the long option from Kuzdere, 15 km with 440 m of elevation gain.
- September 17, 2023: a coastal route with a beach, 7 km with 330 m of elevation gain.
- March 10, 2024: a spring coastal route, 7 km with 330 m of elevation gain.
- August 10, 2024: a short summer option.
For a hot day, it is best to choose the short route along the coast. The option from Kuzdere is suitable for a full day of walking when the group is ready for a longer distance and has decided on the finish arrangements in advance.
