LYCIAN WAY TRAIL – CHASE PEGASUS ON HORSEBACK!

Ever dreamed of following in the hoofprints of a legend? Let us take you on a horseback journey inspired by Pegasus — the mythical winged horse born from the blood of Medusa.

According to ancient Greek mythology, Pegasus emerged when the hero Perseus beheaded Medusa. With help from Athena or Poseidon, the hero Bellerophon managed to tame this wild and powerful creature. Their most famous adventure? Defeating the fearsome Chimera — a fire-breathing monster. Pegasus soared through the skies while Bellerophon delivered the final blow, burying the beast beneath a mountain. Later, Bellerophon attempted to ride Pegasus to the heavens, but fate had other plans. The winged steed rose to the stars, becoming a constellation and a servant of Zeus himself.

So why the mythology lesson? Because we invite you to ride after Pegasus — not in the sky, but on one of the most legendary trails on Earth: the Eastern Lycian Way.

This unforgettable horseback riding adventure stretches across 7 to 8 days and covers roughly 150 km of this iconic 540 km trail. Unlike ordinary trekkers, you’ll explore the trail with the freedom, elegance, and spirit of horseback riding.

We begin in Kuzdere, journeying through the wild beauty surrounding Mount Olympos (Tahtalı Dağı), and passing historic and scenic locations such as Ovacık, Gedelme, Beycik, Çıralı, Tekirova, and Çamyuva. Throughout the journey, you’ll witness ancient ruins, encounter age-old trees, explore caves hidden in the forest, and take in breathtaking views of remote bays and craggy cliffs.

And yes, the debate still rages on — is this the true Mount Olympos, the divine home of Zeus? The name Tahtalı literally means “God’s Throne”, after all.

Along the trail, you’ll encounter remnants of Lycian civilization — from 2,000-year-old rock tombs and sarcophagi, to the ruins of ancient cities and castles. The Lycian Way itself was once a vital mule path connecting city-states of the ancient Lycian League, and today it stands as one of the most scenic long-distance trails in the world.

Developed and opened in 1999 by British expat Kate Clow, the trail follows the rugged coastline of the Teke Peninsula, nestled between the modern-day provinces of Muğla and Antalya. This area was once home to the Lycians — seafarers, traders, and pirates — and later fell under the rule of powerful empires, from Persia and Rome to Byzantium and the Ottomans.

On horseback, you’ll not only ride through landscapes carved by time and myth, but also connect with local villagers and travelers along the way. Some paths are only accessible to hikers and riders, offering a peaceful communion with nature where few others tread.

So saddle up — your epic journey begins where myth and mountain meet.

Ride after Pegasus. Discover the Lycian Way.