Turkey Active: hiking, kayaking and cycling
Discover Turkey by embarking on this active adventure. From the minarets of Istanbul experience the real Turkey first-hand. Flex those muscles by cycling through lush landscape, hike forgotten trails and kayak over sunken Lycian and Byzantine relics.
From £910 (Maximum group size 12)
Greentraveller's Travel Advice: The green way to reach Istanbul from the UK is a scenic overland train journey across Europe via Paris, Munich and Bucharest. Spend two relaxing days admiring the pictureque landscapes of France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria.
>> For full details, see: Train from London to Istanbul
Forge a path through unexplored terrain, deep into the historical heart of Turkey. Tread the sorrowful soil at Gallipoli, cycle through lush scenery around Kas, hike along the ancient Lycian Way, kayak over a sunken city, walk among frozen waterfalls, bathe in ancient thermal springs, explore the modern and ancient sights of Istanbul.
Summary Itinerary
The start point Hatay Hotel is located in the heart of Sirkeci, nestled amongst wonderful alleyways filled with restaurants, cafes and shops. It is only a few minutes walk to the famous Bosphorus Straight, where you can feast on an inexpensive fresh fish sandwich whilst watching local anglers hauling their daily catch. The hotel is a 3 minute walk from Istanbul's Sirkeci train station.
Day 1 Istanbul: Stretch those legs in the backstreets of Istanbul in search of the city's hidden charms, then watch the sunset over the Sultanahmet skyline.
Days 2-3 Gallipoli Peninsula: Walk through the Gallipoli Battlefields where thousands of lives were lost. Break from the tragic past and snorkel in the warm waters of Anzac Cove.
Day 4 Selcuk: Visit the historic Roman ruins of Ephesus before returning to Selcuk. A great way to enjoy free time here is by indulging in a scrub at the local hamam.
Day 5 Fethiye: The seaside town of Fethiye provides a chance to visit the deserted Greek village of Kayakoy, head out to spectacular Saklikent Gorge or just chill out by the harbour with a cheesy pide.
Day 6 Faralya: Hike the ancient trails of the Lycian Way, through olive groves and carob gardens, and past ancient relics. Visit remote villages and take in stunning views of the Mediterranean along the way.
Days 7-9 Kas: Trek along pine-blanketed mountain tracks and arrive in Turkey's chill-out capital, Kabak. Exchange hiking boots for paddles on a kayaking adventure over a sunken Byzantine city. Cycle through the Kas countryside past rustic villages with breathtaking views of the Turquoise Coast.
Days 10-11 Pamukkale: Resembling a frozen waterfall, the chalky travertines at Pamukkale are a surreal sight. Explore the ancient city of Hierapolis or maybe bathe in thermal springs renowned for their healing properties.
Day 12 Istanbul: On arrival in Istanbul, take a morning ferry ride across the Bosphorus to the European shore and marvel at Istanbul's stunning skyline.
What price includes
- Trip accompanied by a group leader
- Snorkelling in Anzac Cove
- Trekking on the Lycian way
- Sea kayak excursion over sunken city of Kekova
- Mountain Biking from Kas
- Hotels/guesthouses (6nts), village pension/homestay (4 nts)
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
Hotel Hatay, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci train station
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
The start point Hotel Hatay is located just 3 minute's walk from Sirkeci train station. Head south on Muradiye Cd, turn left on Nobethane Cd, and the hotel is at number 5/7.
How to get there:
Train from London to Istanbul
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
Hotel Hatay, Istanbul
Istanbul's Sirkeci train station
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
The end point Hotel Hatay is located just 3 minute's walk from Sirkeci train station. Head north on Nobethane Cd, continue on Muradiye Cd and then you'll see the station in front of you.
How to get back:
Take the train from Istanbul to London
