About this stage
A demanding mountain stage from the cliff-top hamlet of Alınca over the Bel pass. The trail climbs and falls through pine forest and passes the scattered Lycian ruins of ancient Sidyma — rock-cut sarcophagi standing among the houses of Dodurga village — before crossing high ground to the mountain village of Bel. Water and supplies are scarce; carry at least 3 litres.
Stage highlights
- Sidyma ancient city ruins
- Lycian sarcophagi among village houses
- The Bel mountain pass
- Remote pine forest walking
What to expect on the trail
This is a mountain stage with sustained climbs, a high pass and rocky paths. Sturdy boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended, and the descents can be hard on the knees.
The route runs largely under tree cover, giving welcome shade through most of the walk — comfortable even in late spring or early autumn.
You'll move between roughly 431 m and 738 m above sea level on this stage — 563 m total ascent and 676 m descent over 13.6 km.
A challenging stage with a real pass to cross. Allow extra time, start at first light, and carry more water than you think you'll need.
Getting there
Alınca and Bel are remote mountain villages with very limited public transport. Most hikers reach this stage by walking from a neighbouring section, or by private taxi from Fethiye (a 1-2 hour drive depending on the trailhead).
Where this stage fits in the trail
This is stage 4 of 27, part of the Western Lycian Coast section running from Fethiye through Ölüdeniz, Faralya and the Patara dunes towards Kalkan. It connects stage 3 (Faralya to Alınca) to stage 5 (Bel to Gavurağılı), and works well as part of a multi-day section walk.
Best time to walk this stage
The Lycian Way is best walked in spring (mid-March to mid-May) or autumn (mid-September to mid-November). October and April offer the most reliable weather: mild temperatures, clear skies, wildflowers in spring or olive harvest in autumn, and far fewer hikers. Summer (June-August) is generally too hot for comfortable walking and water sources dry up. Winter (December-February) brings rain to the coast and snow to mountain passes; the trail is walkable but conditions are unpredictable, especially on the higher inland stages.