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Day 1 Join Istanbul

If you are arriving on Day 1 you will be met at the airport in Istanbul and transferred to the group hotel for overnight accommodation. Please check at hotel reception for details of when to meet your guide. Remainder of day at leisure.

meals : Array

Day 2 Istanbul, then fly to Kayseri

Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, was the hub of the Ottoman Empire, and many of the grand buildings of this period are present today. You could easily spend a week in this city and still not have seen all the sites. Today we will explore the old Sultanahmet Area. We will visit the Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome square (obelisks), the Basilica Cistern, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. In the late afternoon or early evening we will drive to the airport and fly to Kayseri. From Kayseri, we will drive to our group hotel in Cappadocia.

meals : B

Day 3 Day walk in the Meskendir and Red Valleys (9kms, 5hrs)

We will start our walking today in the serene Meskendir Valley. We follow a path honeycombed with cave houses and complexes from ancient Christian civilisations before crossing to the Red Valley. This is the most beautiful and scenic valley in Cappadocia and is known for its fascinating formations and colours. There are many interesting structures including the Church of the Three Crosses which was carved out of the cliff face during the 7th century. Its decorative reliefs and frescoes were added later, in the 10th and 11th centuries. The existence of these ancient reliefs in the present day is remarkable. From the Red Valley we continue our walk to Cavusin, one of the earliest Christian villages in Cappadocia. After lunch we enjoy walking along the Pasabaglari terrace with its amazing rock-formed fairy chimneys.

meals : B,L,D

Day 4 Day walk in the Advadi Valley, Uchisar village and Goreme (approx. 10kms, 4 - 5 hrs)

We begin our day walk at the trail head of the scenic Akvadi (White Valley). Take in the beauty and serenity of the region, as we follow an ancient river bed winding through rustic vineyards. By noon we aim to arrive in the small village of Uchisar where a superb panoramic view of the region can be seen from "The Fortress". We spend the afternoon exploring the Pigeon Valley which leads to Goreme and is home to a myriad of fascinating stone carvings.

meals : B,L,D

Day 5 Goreme Open Air Museum, day walk Zemi Valley (6km, 2 - 3 hrs)

Today we visit the renowned Goreme Open Air Museum, where we discover how the early Christian people living in the heart of Cappadocia carved houses, churches and monasteries into the soft rocks. These ancient sanctuaries contain many examples of Byzantine art. The frescoes on display in the museum represent a unique collection from this period. Our walk then leads us through the gentle Zemi Valley which features the El Nazar Church, containing more impressive frescoes from the 10th century.

meals : B,L,D

Day 6 Drive to Ihlara, underground city of Derinkuyu, day walk in Ihlara Valley and canyon (14kms, 4 hrs)

Enroute to Ihlara we will visit the incredible underground city of Derinkuyu, which lies beneath the plains of Central Anatolia. "Swiss Cheese" is how many people describe the intricate structure of the underground city, honeycombed with holes and passages up to 8 stories deep and used as a refuge during times of siege. From here we continue to Ihlara Valley by car where we then walk into this enchanting valley and marvel at still more magnificent rock cut rooms and churches. An afternoon visit to the Selime Monastery set into a steep mountain face is a must. Tonight we will stay in Ihlara.

meals : B,L,D

Day 7 Drive to Antalya via Konya

On today's drive to Antalya (500km, approx 8 - 9 hrs) we will explore the city of Konya en route which is home to some of Turkey's most elegant mosques. In particular, we visit the Mevlana Museum which is the mausoleum of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi who was a Sufi Mystic. This site also served as the dervish lodge of the Mevlevi order, better known as the 'whirling dervishes'. The members of the Mevlevi order had a prolific impact throughout the Ottoman Empire in classical poetry, calligraphy, visual arts and music. From Konya we continue to the picturesque city of Antalya bordered by the blue waters of the Mediterranean. The city of Antalya became part of the Roman Empire in 133 BC growing and prospering during that period. The city now reflects a colourful blend of architecture and artwork from a number of influences, both old and new. We stay near the beautiful harbour in the old part of the city.

meals : B,L,D

Day 8 Drive to trailhead of Lycian Way, day walk, to Adrasan (9kms, 2hrs; + optional 2kms)

After breakfast there is a short transfer to the village of Ulupinar, where we will start walking on a section of the Lycian Way. We follow the trail south to the Flames of Chimaira, or "yanartas" (flaming rock), a place with some two dozen in-ground vents located on the hillside. The vents emit methane, thought to be of metamorphic origin. In ancient times sailors could navigate by the flames. From here there is a gradual descent to the beach at Cirali. There is opportunity for those who wish to visit the ruins of Olympos, which extend right to the southern end of the beach. We transfer from Cirali to our hotel in Adrasan for overnight.

meals : B,L,D

Day 9 Day walk Lycian Way (18kms, 5 hrs)

A simply superb day of coastal walking, again on a section of the Lycian Way, we begin today from our hotel. Climbing steadily to a pass at 470m, we then drop down closer to the water’s edge, the route twisting and turning along the cliff edge amongst limestone crags and pine trees. We will be rewarded with stunning views of hidden coves and deserted islands. This is a beautiful walk contouring the hills of the Gelidonia peninsula, eventually climbing to a rocky crest overlooking the Cape Gelidonia and its two lighthouses. We will then descend through the pine forest to our waiting vehicle and transfer back to our hotel in Adrasan.

meals : B,L,D

Day 10 Drive to Kekova, half day boat tour, Simena Sunken City, Kas

After breakfast we will drive to Kekova, with a visit to the ancient city of Myra enroute. Very little has been recorded about the origins of this site and the ruins of the Lycian and Roman town are mostly covered by alluvial silts. The Acropolis on the Demre-plateau, the Roman theatre and the Roman baths have been partly excavated. The semi-circular theatre was destroyed in an earthquake but rebuilt afterwards. The Kekova area is renowned for its striking coastal scenery and well preserved archaeological sites. A pleasant excursion by boat is the best way to see the ruins on the northern coast of Kekova island, where some of the old houses were completely submerged due to earthquakes many hundreds of years ago. We will cruise around the island, where you can usually see ruins 2m below on the seabed. We will walk up to the Simena Castle for lovely panoramic views and to find numerous rock tombs before taking a stroll on Tersane Island. After the cruise we drive to our hotel in Kas for overnight.

meals : B,L,D

Day 11 Day walk on western section of Lycian Way, Fethiye (12kms, 4 - 5 hrs)

This morning we will drive to the western section of the Lycian Way. We commence walking in Esen village and follow a pathway up to the hills, where local farming families inhabit isolated houses. Their main sources of income are tending goats or working the arable fields. We visit the remains of the ancient city of Pinara, with its extraordinary array of rupestral tombs and structures. In the afternoon we visit the Saklikent Canyon (Hidden City), which is the second largest canyon in Europe at 300 m deep and 18 km long; the result of thousands of years of erosion by flowing waters. As the level of the water rises during the winter months, the canyon is only accessible in summer. We will transfer to our overnight hotel in Fethiye.

meals : B,L,D

Day 12 Day walk Lycian Way (10kms, 4 hrs)

A short transfer will take us to the trailhead near Ovacik village. We will commence our walk from the southern foot of Babadag Mountain (1969m) then follow the coast, enjoying sweeping views over the deep blue bay of the Oludeniz Lagoon. Our walk takes us through small traditional villages and local fields to finish in Kirme village, where we will be picked up by our transport and transferred back to Fethiye.

meals : B,L,D

Day 13 Butterfly Valley, Kabak (8kms, 4 hrs)

We will commence our walk today near the village of Faralya and again explore the meandering trails of the Lycian Way. After a small climb, we will be treated to a magnificent view over the Butterfly Valley. We follow the coastline to Yuva Beach enjoying spectacular vistas along the way. Here we will stop for lunch and a well deserved swim. Transfer back to Fethiye for overnight.

meals : B,L,D

Day 14 To Oludeniz

Oludeniz is one of the most photographed beaches on the Mediterranean. It is famous for its shades of turquoise and aquamarine and is rated among the top 5 beaches in the world by travellers and travel publications. It has a secluded sandy bay at the mouth of the lagoon, which is a national nature reserve. Today is for relaxing after our days of walking and we will spend the day at leisure swimming or taking time out to read and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. In the late afternoon we transfer back to our hotel in Fethiye.

meals : B,L,D

Day 15 Transfer to Dalaman airport where trip concludes

This morning you will be transferred to the Dalaman airport where the trip concludes.

meals : B

Day 1 Istanbul

Hosgeldinz! Welcome to Istanbul, a bustling mega-city with a rich history and food scene waiting to be explored. Your trip begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you will meet your leader and fellow travellers. After the meeting, you might want to head out as a group to grab dinner and get to know each other.

Day 2 Istanbul

Meet your local guide early this morning for a guided tour of Sultanahmet AKA the Old City, formerly Constantinople, to see Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome and the Grand Bazaar. Enjoy free time for the rest of the afternoon and evening. Maybe visit the jaw-dropping Hagia Sofia, said to have changed the history of architecture. Or maybe enjoy a steam session at a traditional hamam (public bath). Your tour leader knows all the best places, so they can recommend some great options for places to eat.

Day 3 Gallipoli - Canakkale

Head for the shores of Gallipoli, the site of the ANZAC landings, one of the most disastrous Allied campaigns of WWI. Visit the battlefields of Nek and Lone Pine and encounter remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers. Hear stories of the heroism and camaraderie that unfolded among the tragedies and take the time to read moving inscriptions etched onto a sea of gravestones. There will also be the option to visit the Kabatepe Museum, which includes interactive presentations of the battle, as well as numerous relics from the campaign. Then, take the short ferry ride from Europe to Asia across the Dardanelles to Canakkale, a charming traditional fishing town that has a great range of dinner and nightlife options, not to mention medieval ruins to explore.

Day 4 Selcuk

After breakfast, take a local bus to the traditional farming village of Selcuk. Take a guided walk around the town and the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill in the afternoon. See the 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque, the imposing the Grand Fortress and the ruins of the Basilica of St John. According to Christian lore, St John came to Ephesus with the Virgin Mary from Jerusalem and lived here until his death sometime around AD 100. The basilica stands over his alleged burial site. Your evening is free.

Day 5 Selcuk

Today, choose whether you would like to take a guided tour of Ephesus with your tour leader or strike out on your own via a dolmus (local bus). One of the best-preserved Greco Roman cities in the world, Ephesus once had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a renowned medical institute, a brothel and Roman baths. In the afternoon, you can choose to join an optional excursion to Sirince to taste some local wines.

Day 6 Pamukkale

Take a train inland to one of Turkey's most photographed sites, Pamukkale, which literally translates to ‘cotton castle’. Here spectacular natural hot springs with high calcium bicarbonate content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, leaving white terraces (the ‘cotton’). It's been used as a spa since 200 BC. Though you won't be able to bathe in these travertines, you can take a walk through them (after removing your shoes). You can choose to take an optional excursion to the ancient city of Hierapolis in the afternoon – speak to your leader for more information.

Day 7 Fethiye

Take a local bus to Oludeniz and enjoy some time at the three-kilometre-long beach. Please note you will need to pay a small fee if you want to access the Blue Lagoon. Later, transfer to the quaint town of Fethiye. If conditions allow, it is possible to take an optional excursion to Kayakoy ghost village, an abandoned town that is both eerie and beautiful. This evening, enjoy a walk by the harbour and look up to see massive Lycian rock tombs cut from the cliffside.

Day 8 Southern Coast Cruising/Kekova

This morning take a local bus to Ucagiz. Board a boat for a memorable voyage along the Turquoise Coast, viewing some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world. Cruise to the sunken cities around Kekova Island, where ancient remains can be viewed just below the water’s surface, and take a walk to Simena Castle, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding bays and islands. Late afternoon, transfer to Kekova and spend a night in this lovely town.

Day 9 Antalya

After breakfast, continue to Antalya, your base for the next two nights. Enjoy free time on arrival to explore at your own pace. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya due to it charming cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. You may like to take a walk around the markets, jump on the old Nostalgic Tram or go to Konyaalti Beach for some more time chilling out beachside. If you're in the mood for some history, check out some of the best museums in the country, or get theatrical at Aspendos ancient city with a beautiful, intact theatre from Roman times. Tonight, why not stake out some food and shisha with your group – Antalya has a thriving nightlife scene, so use it to your advantage.

Day 10 Antalya

Enjoy a free day to explore at your own pace. There are a number of optional excursions to choose from if you want a little guidance. For those after a nature fix, Duden Waterfalls is a lovely spot to relax. If you’re interested in visiting historical sites, there are optional excursions to Termessos, Aspendos or Side to choose from. Alternatively, stay in Antalya and soak up the charms of this seaside town.

Day 11 Konya

This morning take a local bus inland to Konya, a traditional Turkish city where mainstream tourism is yet to arrive. The city is closely linked with the Whirling Dervish sect of Islam developed in the 13th century by Rumi (or Mevlana). Get your bearings on an orientation walk with your leader and enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the many tea gardens. Later this evening, maybe join your group for some central Anatolian cuisine.

Day 12 Cappadocia

This morning after breakfast, travel by local bus to Goreme, Cappadocia, a city made from the soft volcanic rock of the region. On arrival stretch your legs with an orientation walk with your leader.

Day 13 Cappadocia

Today is free for you to explore Goreme and surrounds, including the World Heritage-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a monastic complex is composed of churches, rectories and dwellings carved from the earth. Perhaps explore one of the region’s underground cities, the largest of which are almost ten levels deep with narrow passages connecting the floors like hamster tunnels. If you’re a hiker, you may like to walk the valleys of Red, Rose, or Love. Your leader is available help you organise your day.

Day 14 Cappadocia/Ankara

Gunaydin! Your morning begins bright and early at 8.30am in Cappadocia. Once the formalities are out of the way, we'll make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage – Hattusa Ancient Site. This site is the former capital of the Hittite Empire, known for its well-preserved temples and royal residences. You'll have time to explore the site with your local leader and discover the Lions' Gate and the Royal Gate, and the ensemble of rock art at Yazilikaya before we make our way to Ankara for the evening.

Day 15 Ankara

After breakfast this morning, you'll enjoy an orientation walk through the city with your locally based leader. First up, we'll visit the Mausoleum of Kemal Atatürk, founder, and first president of the Turkish Republic. Then we'll visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations where you'll be guided through the deep history of Turkey. Finally, we’ll visit the Castle of Ankara and our last stop will be the Haci Bayram Mosque which is located next to the temple of Augustus from Roman era. "Res Gestae Divi Augusti" (The Works of the Deified Augustus) was written on the walls of the Ankara Augustus-Roman Temple in two languages and painted red. You'll enjoy a stop at a traditional local spot for lunch, your leader will guide you in choosing the best delicacies to try. The afternoon is all yours to explore as you wish.

Day 16 Eskisehir

After breakfast this morning, you'll take a fast train to Eskisehir. Drop your bags at the hotel and hit the street to start exploring this fascinating city. First stop – Eskisehir Odunpazari Village, where you can wander the quaint and colourful houses. For lunch, head to a local restaurant run by four sisters and their mother for a cooking demonstration. You’ll make ci borek, a traditional Turkish dish made from thin dough layers filled with ground meat, onions, and spices. Learn how to prepare the filling and dough before the chefs cook up and serve your flavoursome creations. In the afternoon, you might like to visit one of the many museums in the area or jump on a short gondola along the Porsuk River.

Day 17 Istanbul

After breakfast this morning, we'll depart on a train bound for Istanbul. This afternoon, your tour leader will introduce you to the lively Taksim district, the beating heart of modern Istanbul. Walk across the Golden Horn in view of the medieval Galata Tower. Board one of the world’s oldest funicular railways, operating since 1875, for the short journey 500 metres to Taksim. Alight at Istiklal Caddesi, arguably the city’s most popular strolling, shopping and snacking street, and take a walk among the local people who call this city home. Try an islak burger (a burger drenched in sauce) and visit a hidden local coffee house. Maybe stay with your travel companions for an optional celebratory dinner and take advantage of the late-night entertainment.

Day 18 Istanbul

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave the accommodation any time after breakfast. If you plan to stay on to see all Istanbul has to offer – which is highly recommended – we are happy to book additional accommodation (subject to availability). Please enquire at the time of booking to see if this is an option.