Gelidonya Lighthouse Hike

Standing at the tip of the cape south of Adrasan, where the Anatolian coast reaches out into the sea, the Gelidonya Lighthouse is one of the most loved stops on the Lycian Way. Built in 1936 and also known as the Taşlıkburnu Lighthouse, it stands about 227 metres above sea level, among the highest-sited lighthouses on Turkey's coast. It is still in service, now solar-powered, and protected by the Coastal Safety authority.

Why is this hike so popular?

From the lighthouse, the view stretches over the Five Islands (Beşadalar), known in antiquity as the Chelidonian or Swallow Islands, and the open blue Mediterranean. Many people walk up to watch the light change over the islands at sunset. The waters off this cape have always been dangerous for ships: a Bronze Age wreck found here, dated to around 1200 BC, became in 1960 the first underwater shipwreck to be excavated in its entirety; its finds are now in the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Routes

• Karaöz route (shortest, recommended): From Karaöz, follow a rough road for about 2.5 km towards Pirate Cove, then climb about 1.8 km from the parking spot to the lighthouse. At a moderate pace it takes 30–45 minutes and gets steeper towards the end.
• Full trail from Karaöz village: If you walk from the village, it is about 8 km to the lighthouse; the first 7 km follow a dirt road through pine forest with a few springs along the way.
• Adrasan route: About 12 km along the Lycian Way from Adrasan. A full-day stage for experienced hikers.

The trail is marked with the Lycian Way's red-and-white waymarks.

Before you set out

• Water: There is no water, kiosk or any facility at the lighthouse. Bring plenty of water per person.
• Sun: Part of the way is in pine forest, but the top is completely exposed. Avoid midday in summer; spring and autumn are the best seasons.
• Return: If you stay for sunset, you'll walk down in the dark; bring a torch or head torch.
• Footwear: The path is rocky and steep in places; wear hiking shoes with good grip.

Safety notes

• In midsummer there is little shade on the trail and the wildfire risk is high; check access and fire bans during the fire season.
• Phone coverage drops in places; download an offline map.
• Don't take risks near the cliff edge for a photo.