Trail on the Mediterranean coast - The Lycian Way
01-10 March 2008 tbc


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DATES 2008
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We are planning a new trail on the southwest coast of Turkey, between Antalya and Olüdeniz. The very first edition of this trail will take place in early March 2008, and we are looking for a small group of riders with an exploratory mind to join us on the opening of this exciting new itinerary. Winding its way between the turquoise sea and mountain peaks along a strecht of coast unspoilt by mass-tourism, this one-week point-to-point trail will take you at a relaxed pace on the millenia-old muleteer path known as the Lycian Way - voted one of the World's 10 Best Walks by the Sunday Times. A walking guide entirely dedicated to the Way as well as many pictures can be found at: www.lycianway.com



This stunningly beautiful coastline offers a great mix of nature, history and culture.

In places, the route soars along cliffs overlooking the sea, then climbs inland through pine forests and summer pastures. In others, it dips down to fishing villages, small bays, and the deserted beach of Patara, where you can gallop on kilometres of sand.

The Lycian Way also passes several archeological sites including funeral monuments, ancient cities and sunken temples, which testify of the rich past of the area.


In mountain villages, the lifestyle hasn't change for centuries and you will experience the friendly culture of the locals, staying in the simple home of Turkish families on some nights.


Itinerary


We will research the overall itinerary in the winter 2007-2008 and we will publish an outline of the programme in the beginning of 2008. The purpose of the pilote trail in March 2008 will be to finalise this itinerary. Participants should remember that the route will not be stricly set, and that not everything may run like clockwork … we may have to turn back if we find that there is no way through certain tracks, or the time spent in the saddle may vary from one day to the next, just as the level of accommodation. But, allowing for chance and exploration, we may chance upon beautiful scenery or a particularly friendly encounter.

You will ride in a small group with 2 English-speaking guides, and you will spend on average 4 to 6 hours on the back of the horse each day. The overall speed of the ride will be mainly walking, with opportunities for trots and canters throughout the week, including a long gallop on Patara beach. On some days, we will stop for a few hours to visit archeological sites, to drink the tea offered by a villager, or to relax by the sea.


Riding level




Intermediate and above. You will need to be able to tack up your horse yourself. The circuit will include difficult passages where you may be asked to dismount and walk.
Weather



At this time of the year, the weather should be sunny not too hot, with low risks of rain.


Accommodation



Full board accommodation inc. 7 nights spent in wooden bungalows, in pensions and in the private homes of local families. The level of comfort will vary from double rooms with shower (bungalows) to collective rooms with matresses on the floor and a shared bathroom (private homes).

Lunch will be a pic-nic, dinner and breakfast will be taken at the accommodation.

Prices


The pilot edition is at 850 Euros per person (exclusive of flight).

The finalised trail will be retailed in 2009, at a higher price.
 
Prices include:

- The loan of a horse and riding equipment;
- 2 English-speaking guides;
- 7 nights in pensions or family homes, full board excluding drinks;
- Regular transfers from/to Antalya airport;
- Luggage will be carried by the logistics vehicle.