Pioneering British author Kate Clow revives Türkiye’s Lycian Way hiking trail

British adventurer and author Kate Clow, who originally mapped Türkiye’s famed Lycian Way, now lives in a tranquil village in the southwestern province of Mugla, dedicating her time to tourism and route discovery in Türkiye’s Aegean region.

Clow is working to develop new trails to further enhance the allure of Mugla’s ancient landscapes.

Pioneering vision of Türkiye’s trails

Clow envisioned the Lycian Way in 1989, embarking on a mission to reveal and record this ancient path. Supported by a private bank, Clow and her team installed initial signage and road markers, creating a guidebook that would become a landmark reference for hikers and historians.

By 1999, the entire trail was open to the public, placing Mugla and its breathtaking landscapes firmly on the map for international tourism and adventure.

New discoveries from ancient Dodurga

After moving three years ago to Seydikemer, an area close to the ancient city of Sidyma, Clow set her sights on more than just the Lycian Way. In Dodurga, a small Lycian village dotted with Roman tombs and Byzantine relics, Clow has uncovered six Roman roads and mapped out an alternative route from Dodurga to Xanthos, Türkiye’s renowned ancient city.

The path is now open, offering explorers a fresh, historical journey.

Expanding Lycian Way’s legacy

Though initially stretching 509 kilometers (316 miles), the Lycian Way now spans 760 kilometers (472 miles) thanks to Clow’s continued exploration. With her team’s support, additional routes have been developed, welcoming nearly 30,000 hikers yearly –predominantly international visitors – to experience Türkiye’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Clow credits the success of the trail’s growth on community sponsorship and plans for future renovations and trail extensions.

“Spring is the best time to explore the Lycian Way,” Clow advises, as hikers can enjoy scenic accommodations, camping areas, and authentic local cuisine along the trail.

By uncovering new paths and promoting the region’s rich heritage, Clow continues to enhance the experience for thousands of hikers each year, ensuring that the beauty and history of Mugla remain accessible to all. Her ongoing efforts highlight the importance of preserving and promoting Türkiye’s natural and cultural treasures for future generations.