TURKEY

The Lycian Way

& Ephesus
A Guided Walking Adventure

Table of Contents
Daily Itinerary ........................................................................... 4
Tour Facts at a Glance ........................................................... 17
Traveling To and From Your Tour .......................................... 19
CW Information & Policies ..................................................... 21
Select Experiences ................................................................ 23

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

Travel Style
As a Guided Adventure, this trip is one
of our signature travel experiences and
has been designed to let you leave all
your cares behindfrom 24/7 guides
and accommodations to meals,
transportation, and local wine or beer
with dinner, you are assured an
exceptional active-travel group adventure.

Overview
The treasures of Turkey, so ample and various, are sought after by art historians,
archaeologists, cooks, and travelers alike. Whether you consider Turkeys great
monuments of the ancient world, compelling myths, colorful bazaars, spiceladen cuisine, or brilliant landscape to be its special treasure, the choice exists.
Indeed, if the weight of Turkeys entire riches could be measured, this
countrysidewhich shifts from limestone white to stained ferrous red and
spotted soft greenwould sink fast into its turquoise sea.
On this journey, you explore three fascinating regions: the Antalyan Peninsula
ancient Lycia, Turkeys stunning Mediterranean coastline replete with Greek,
Roman, and Byzantine remainsand to the northwest, the Ionian region, with
the centerpiece of Ephesus, the Greco-Roman archaeological marvel, and finally
the dazzling city of Istanbul. Each walk penetrates deep into the countryside, on
less-traveled trails over hills and valleys, leading to hidden treasures and views of
the dramatic coastline, all well worth the effort. You take in riches galore,
walking in a land conveying timelessness, and eating delicacies worthy of a
sultans table, from roasted lamb to pastries stuffed with nuts and honey.
Accommodations are chosen to match the scenery, an intimate retreat tucked
into a remote village, a golden-hued mansion nestled into the rocky shore, a
boutique hotel overlooking the marina, and in Istanbul, a spa hotel, located in
the historical heart of the city.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

Daily Itinerary
DAY 1
Meet in Antalya. Termessos; 2.5 miles (3 hours), moderate, 850-ft. elevation gain
and loss. Farmers' market exploration. Transfer to irali (2 hours)

Upon meeting in the lovely port city of Antalya, dramatically situated at the base
of the 9,000-foot Taurus Mountains, you drive 45 minutes to Termessos, a wild
mountaintop settlement of the ancient Pisidians at an elevation of 3,455 feet
with spectacular views of the mountains and the Antalyan coast. Protected by
geography from the attacks of Alexander the Great, it later became an ally of
Rome, eventually declining due to an earthquake that destroyed the citys
aqueduct and water supply. The path climbs steadily to the natural platform on
which the ancient city was built, and leads to the sites highlight, the wellpreserved theater, perched on the mountains cliffs as if hanging in mid-air.
You descend following the same trail part of the way, and past several cliff
tombs. The van takes you to a charming restaurant where lunch is served in the
shade of full-grown pine trees, with pools and water channels gurgling in the
background. You indulge in your first assortment of local specialties that may
include hibesh, an appetizer flavored with tahini, yogurt, cumin, and paprika; or
perhaps lamb stewed with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and herbs; followed by a
baked pumpkin dessert.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

This afternoon, you stroll through a farmers street market before traveling
approximately two hours along a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline,
contouring the base of Mt. Olympos, to the village of irali, your home for the
next two nights. Time permitting, you may stroll or ride one of the hotels
bicycles on the sandy road to a two-mile-long secluded beach, part of which is
protected by the World Wildlife Fund as a nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles.
You gather with your group for a welcome drink at the outdoor bar before a
dinner alfresco by the swimming pool. Local specialties may include a variety of
meze (appetizers) and freshly caught grilled fish.
Nerissa Hotel, irali
A new hotel featuring 35 guest rooms with simple dcor but all modern
amenities. Facilities include a swimming pool, an outdoor bar, hammocks,
bicycles (for those wishing to travel the short distance to irali beach), and an
organic restaurant serving only fresh local ingredients.

DAY 2
Alacasu Bay to Phaselis; 1.5 miles (2 hours including site visit), easy to moderate.
Ulupinar to Chimaera; 3 miles (3 hours), moderate, 750-ft. elevation gain and
loss

After a bountiful buffet breakfast of fresh and preserved fruit, cucumbers,

tomatoes, olives, cheeses, yogurt, and baked goods, you transfer 30 minutes to
the morning walk, starting at the secluded bay of Alacasu. Within Olympos
National Park, a beautiful trail takes you over three coves under Aleppo pines,
and to your final destination, the beachfront ruins of ancient Phaselis, founded
in 700 B.C. Because of its location on an isthmus, the city features three harbors
and was once a major trade center. You walk the short and wide main street,
passing Roman baths, agoras, theaters, and numerous sarcophagi, and end at the
impressive Hadrian Waterway Gate.
After lunch at a local restaurant, you begin a walk which initially takes you along
a stream on a well-established dirt trail. After crossing the stream (this may
require taking your boots off, depending on the water level), you walk uphill in
an open forestin springtime, spotted with bright pink bougainvilleasbefore
reaching an open viewpoint. You start descending a somewhat rocky trail within
a much drier landscape of rust-colored soil and rubber plants.
The day culminates at the sacred site of Chimaera, where eternal flames have
literally been coming out of the rocks for 3,000 years. According to Book 6 of

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

Homers Iliad, it is here that

Bellerophon, riding Pegasus, slayed the
Chimaera, the monster with the head of
a lion, the body of a goat, and the tail of
a serpent. Those who prefer can opt for
a more relaxed afternoon, transferring
directly to the entrance of the Chimaera
site to follow a smooth trail up and
down (approximately 30 minutes each
way) to the flaming rocks before
returning to the hotel and spending the afternoon on the beach or by the pool.
Dinner this evening is once again served on the hotel premises.
Nerissa Hotel, irali
DAY 3
Early transfer to Apollonia (approximately 3 hours). Apollonia to ancient Aperlea
and Sicak Bay, 4 miles (3 hours), moderate, 1,150-ft. elevation loss. Scenic
boat ride and cove hopping. St. Nicholas church and Myra visit

Todays adventure starts with a very early wake-up call and a cup of coffee
before boarding the van for an approximately three-hour drive, during which
you enjoy a breakfast on-the-go of local pastries and fruit. The discreet
trailhead separates from the main road and you follow rocky paths and goat trails
partly shaded with carob trees, gradually descending all the way to sea level.
Before reaching the shore at ancient Aperlea, you walk by ancient sarcophagi and
remnants of Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine-era buildings hidden in the wild
vegetation. Aperlae, with some of its monuments buried under the sea due to a
5th-century earthquake, is an ancient Lycian city dating to the 4th century B.C. It
is most remarkable for its 1,300-year lifespan, declining only as late as the 7th
century A.D., during the Byzantine period. The ancient economy of this town
was the valuable Tyrian dye, derived painstakingly from a type of marine snail;
archaeological excavations have uncovered huge vats where the snails were kept
and processed to produce the deep purple dye, prized by the Romans for use in
ceremonial robes.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

A private boat awaits on the only dock at Sicak Bay, and your morning efforts
are rewarded with the scent of grilled chicken cooked by your first mate aboard
the vessel. A buffet of mixed salads and stewed vegetables completes your lunch,
enjoyed while peacefully cruising the turquoise waters. Your captain takes you to
a tiny cove where ancient ruins stand on the white-sand beach. There is time to
sunbathe on the deck or relax in the shade, or perhaps swim in the crystal-clear
sea.
The boat docks at Andriace, where your van is waiting to take you to two nearby
sites of interest. The town of Myraknown for its amazing rock-cut cliff tombs
dating back to 500 B.C., and a well-preserved Roman theater, circa 100 B.C. is
perhaps best known as the home of St. Nicholas, who performed miracles and
legendarily evolved into Santa Claus. Another quick hop on and off the bus takes
you to the church where he presided as bishop.
Finally, you drive approximately one hour to the town of Kas. A quaint fishing
town once known for its sponge divers, Kas is now a lovely seaside resort. Your
hotel is built on the hillside and features a multitude of waterfront lounging
areas, from the swimming pool, to the bar, to canopies hidden behind climbing
bougainvilleas, to lounge chairs placed along the rocky shoreline.
Villa Hotel Tamara, Kas
A stunning seaside hotel built of golden stones on several levels and into the
hillside, with a swimming pool, lovely terrace and outdoor bar, and many lounge
areas overlooking the sea and neighboring Greek islands. Spacious rooms are
tastefully decorated and feature air conditioning and balconies, but no television
or telephone.

DAY 4
Roman aqueduct to Patara Beach; 4.5 miles (2 hours), easy to moderate.
Lunch in Bezirgan. Free exploration of Kas

The morning begins with a buffet breakfast on the hotel terrace, overlooking the
neighboring Greek isles. Fully energized, you transfer to a rarely visited Roman
aqueduct, its arches a magnificent apparition in the tranquil countryside. The
environment in which you walk today is varied, at times lined with silvery olive
trees and a natural herb garden of thyme, oregano, sage, and rosemary,
alternating with fragrant pine forests or open meadow, switching from a singletrack trail to a wide dirt road, and then a sandy path among tall grasses.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

Finally, the views open up and the ruins

of Patara appear in the distance, with the
deep blue sea as a backdrop. The city,
said to be founded by one of Apollos
sons, Patarus, was once one of the mostimportant seaports in Lycia, and was
particularly known for its temple and the
oracle of Apollo. Patara is also the
birthplace of St. Nicholas. As in ancient
times, you enter via the city gate, passing
remains of temples, sarcophagi, a main street, and an impressive theater
(access to various areas varies according to the progress of excavation projects).
You board your van for a 45-minute transfer to the mountain village of
Bezirgan, at just over 2,000 feet in elevation, where you are treated to a
traditional lunch with a local family. Tucked in a fertile plateau, villagers tend
their fruit orchards, fields of chickpeas, and herds of sheep. You remove your
shoes as you enter the house, and observe your hostess as she prepares katmer on
a wide metal sheet over an open firea savory flatbread filled with greens,
onions, cheese, olive oil, and spices. Another version of katmer has tahini and
sugar, which she may also prepare for you. Various other traditional dishes
follow, such as homemade dolmas stuffed with eggplant, peppers, or zucchini,
homemade yogurt, and tomato salad. If you still have room, dessert might be
delicately flavored rice pudding and fresh fruit. Lunch is served according to
custom on wide floor trays, sitting cross-legged around the trays on the carpeted
wooden floor (with cushions available if floor seating is uncomfortable).
Afterward, hot tea is served on the terrace.
An hours drive takes you back to Kas, and the rest of the day (including dinner)
is on your own and at your leisure. This small resort town features attractive
shops and markets ideal for souvenir shopping, or you may choose to sit at an
outdoor restaurant overlooking the harbor, or return to your hotel where you
may lounge by the pool or by the sea.
Villa Hotel Tamara, Kas

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

DAY 5
Alinca to Kabak Beach; 5.5 miles (3 hours), moderate, 2,100-ft. elevation loss

Departing Kas, a scenic two-hour drive north to the towns of Kalkan and Esen
turns west into the coastal mountains. You begin todays walk in Alinca, a tiny
settlement at 2,100 feet. This ancient trailperhaps one of the most scenic along
the Lycian Way, with its sweeping sea viewstakes you along the top of sea
cliffs and under pine trees, creating shade for the majority of your walk. The
path today is mostly downhill, with both smooth and rocky sections. You walk
all the way down to the remote fine-sand beach of Kabak, an eccentric little
community, where there is time to kick off your boots, stretch, and lounge
Turkish-style, on oversize pillows and cushions, perhaps with an ice-cold beer.
Lunch is served buffet-style, featuring hearty soups, a variety of stewed
vegetables, and pasta dishes, all made with organic products. Your table is set in
the shade of a canopy, and a gentle breeze blows as you indulge in this casual
homemade meal. There is time to swim in the turquoise waters of this secluded
cove, sunbathe on its white-sand beach, or perhaps even enjoy a brief siesta,
lulled to rest by the sound of the waves.
Kabak Beach has limited access, and instead of climbing the steep surrounding
trails on foot to exit, you are taxied up the hill along a bumpy road
(approximately 20 minutes). After this exciting ride, you hop in the more
conventional van and transfer slightly over an hour to the town of Fethiye, a
lively port town set in a broad bay at the base of the Taurus Mountains. It is a
perfect place to explore on foot, from the seafront promenade and marina with
both fishing boats and yachts, to the pedestrian-only town center with many
cafs, enticing shops, and a communal hammam (Turkish bath). You gather for
dinner at the colorful farmers market where your guides select fresh fish from
the stalls and have these prepared for you at an adjacent restaurant, accompanied
by savory meze and vegetables.
Yacht Hotel, Fethiye
A modern boutique hotel, ideally located on the harbor in Fethiye. The dcor is of
contemporary design and the hotel is a five-minute walk from the beautiful old
town. A swimming pool, lounge chairs, and outdoor bar are available on the
ground level, while the hotel restaurant and breakfast buffet offer splendid views
from the top floor.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

2014 Country Walkers

DAY 6
Oludeniz to Kayakoy; 4 miles (2 hours),
moderate, 700-ft. elevation gain.
Optional walk to Affouli Monastery; 2
miles (1 hours), easy to moderate with
a challenging section

This morning, a 45-minute drive brings

you to Oludeniz, a famous lagoon whose
waters glitter in a multitude of shades of
greens and blues. From here you begin an uphill climb on foot, including some
steep and rocky sections. You walk along a trail partially shaded by emerald
green Aleppo pine forests and over headlands, providing magnificent views of
the lace-like seascapes below. Your morning efforts are rewarded with a steady
downhill section at the end, and views of the astonishing Greek ghost town of
Kayakoy. The inhabitants of this 600-home ghost city were subjects of the mass
population exchanges of the 1920s. Todays unsettled state of the city offers
moving flashbacks of a past human drama. Farther down the hill is the modern
village of Kayakoy, now hosting a few shops and open-air restaurants. You settle
at one of the shaded tables and once again savor a variety of mezeby now both
familiar and enticing, local grilled meat, and colorful fruit platters.
In the afternoon, you may choose to walk a pine-shaded path from a nearby
trailhead to Affouli Monastery. The trail is mostly smooth except for the last
short section, which is a steep downhill with loose rocks and gravel. The
dramatic cliffside monastery offers sweeping views of the blue expanse of the
Mediterranean (not recommended for those with vertigo or fear of heights).
Others may stroll the streets of Kayakoy, perhaps even ride a camel (!), or return
to the hotel to relax by its swimming pool. You regroup for an apritif on the
top floor of the hotel, and dine with a stunning view of the marina as the sun
sets.
Yacht Hotel, Fethiye

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

10

2014 Country Walkers

DAY 7
Early transfer to Golyaka (3 hours). Golyaka to Kerdemlik cave; 3 miles (2
hours), moderate, 550-ft. elevation gain and loss. Optional walk to Yediler
Manastiri; 2 miles (1 hours), moderate. Transfer to Kusadasi (1 hours)

Today you leave behind the Mediterranean and the region of Lycia, and travel
north along the Aegean coastline to Caria and Ionia. Due to the distance covered
today, you again start very early, with a departure from the hotel at 7:00 a.m.
Breakfast is served during your three-and-a-half-hour drive, and there is an
opportunity to use facilities mid-way.
Your first destination is Bafa Lake and the village of Golyaka. You stretch your
legs on a delightful trail into the foothills of Mt. Latmos. The route is shaded by
thousands of olive trees and meanders among smooth weather-sculpted
boulders, some of which you occasionally have to climb over. Wonderful views
overlook Bafa Lake, and you may also catch glimpses of surefooted mountain
goats running along impossibly steep inclines. This area hides dozens of 9,000year-old Neolithic caves, complete with well-preserved cave paintings. These
pictographs have never been extensively studied or catalogued, thus a true sense
of discovery awaits. The trail leads gently uphill to a cave locally known as
Kerdemlik, which holds wonderfully preserved cave paintings. A picnic lunch is
served on the trail, and features a variety of fresh cold dishes.
This afternoon you may choose to continue to walk to Yediler Manastiri, the
remains of a Byzantine monastery, where fine frescoes decorate the chapel walls.
Or, you may loop back to the village of Kapikiri, resting on the extensive ruins
of Herakleia, some of which are still visible. You can relax at a taverna over a
glass of steaming hot coffee served the traditional way, or perhaps shop for a
delicately embroidered scarf made by the communitys elder women.
In the late afternoon, the drive continues for another hour and a half, and time
flies as you toast the days accomplishments with refreshments and snacks.
Dinner is served at your seaside hotel on the doorstep of Ephesus.
Kismet Hotel, Kusadasi
This historical property is located on a peninsula that protrudes into the Aegean
Sea. Rooms are comfortably furnished and have panoramic views over the
harbor of Kusadasi. The property also features a bar and restaurant in addition to
lovely gardens and an outdoor pool.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

11

2014 Country Walkers

DAY 8
Walking tour of Ephesus; 3 hours.
Weaving cooperative and school. Flight
to Istanbul

You rise for a hearty breakfast to fuel

you for the three-hour walking tour of
Ephesus, the Greco-Roman city and
UNESCO World Heritage site that
contains the largest collection of Roman ruins in the eastern Mediterranean
region. The visible ruins provide a glimpse into the size and wealth of the city,
and it is estimated that only 15 percent of the site has been excavated. The tour
includes landmarks such as the Roman Library of Celsus (125 A.D.), baths, a
brothel, temples, and the main Harbor Street dominated by the Great Theater,
believed to have been the largest outdoor theater in the ancient world. In
addition to Greek and Roman history, the site has strong associations with early
Christianity. Saint Paul lived and was imprisoned here, and the Gospel of John is
believed to have been written here around 100 A.D. Similar to Ancient Priene,
Ephesus was once situated on a harbor, which also became filled with silt over
the centuries. The most prosperous period for the city was around the 1st and
2nd centuries A.D., when it was a major trading center and the largest city in
Roman Asia.
After concluding the tour, you join the locals for lunch in the city center, at a
simple family-owned restaurant known for its excellent liver, flavored with mint
and accompanied by a refreshing cucumber-and-yogurt dish. You are free to
order la carte, and indulge in freshly baked desserts direct from the pastry shop
across the street.
Your last stop in the region is at a weaving school and production cooperative,
where you are given an educational and entertaining lecture on Turkish tribal art
and weavings, and gain insight into this tradition with hands-on demonstrations.
A one-hour drive late in the afternoon brings you to the Izmir Airport for the
50-minute flight to Istanbul.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

12

2014 Country Walkers

Upon arrival in Istanbul, your waiting

bus transports you to your hotel in the
center of the old townideally situated
within walking distance of Sultanahmet
Square, Haghia Sophia, Topkapi Palace,
the Spice Market, and Sirkeci waterfront.
Given your evening arrival in the city,
there are no more group activities
scheduled for the day and you are free to
dine on light fare at the hotels
restaurant, or rest up for the Istanbul exploration.
Levni Hotel & Spa, Istanbul
Ideally located in the heart of Old Istanbul, the Levni Hotel offers bright,
modern, and well-appointed rooms. Additional hotel amenities include a
restaurant and pub, as well as a spa with Turkish bath, heated indoor pool, and
fitness center.

DAY 9
Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque and Basilica Cistern visit. Optional Grand Bazaar
exploration or free time in Istanbul

After a copious buffet breakfast in the hotels garden, you depart for your
overview tour of Istanbul. Please note that your guides have purposefully chosen
sites that are removed from the bustle of the Sultanahmet neighborhood and the
main attractions, to give you a more intimate experience and orient you for your
independent exploration post-tour (highly recommended). Your first stop is the
Sokollu Mehmet Pasha Mosque, featuring splendid tile, marble, and stained-glass
work. Away from the crowds, there is time to examine the outstanding
construction from the outside as well as its interior. Walking past the citys most
famous sites, the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, your guides lead you to
another unique perspective on the ancient city. You make your way underground
to the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern, with its 336 marble columnsfeatured in
the James Bond film, From Russia with Love.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

13

2014 Country Walkers

After a light lunch, you may follow your guide to the Grand Covered Bazaar.
Those who prefer a more relaxing and independent option may peruse the many
street vendors and colorful boutiques in the vicinity of the hotel, or simply
return to their room to rest for the remainder of the afternoon.
Following your immersion in this fascinating city, you reunite for a celebratory
dinner in true Istanbul tradition in the bustling pedestrian district of Kumkapi.
Meaning sand gate in Turkish, the seaside Kumkapi district is one of Istanbuls
top seafood destinations; its lively street scene and plethora of restaurants
offering alfresco dining, fresh local seafood, and meze draw visitors and locals
alike.
Levni Hotel & Spa, Istanbul
DAY 10
Departure from Istanbul

The tour ends after breakfast, leaving you free to head home or continue your
exploration of Turkey.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

14

2014 Country Walkers

ITINERARY CHANGES
Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites,
and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or
transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary, since tour
arrangements are made up to a year in advance and unforeseen circumstances
may arise that mandate change. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour
and your experience.
A WORD ABOUT ACCOMMODATIONS
The hotels on this tour meet CWs high standards of comfort, service, and
access to walking and cultural visits; however, please note that room size and
style vary and sea-view rooms are not guaranteed. Many hotels in Turkey rely on
solar panels for heating hot water. Your guides will inform you before arriving at
a hotel when it may be necessary to run the tap for a longer time than usual for
the water to become warm enough for showering. Most restrooms on tour are
Western-style; however, there may be a few Eastern-style toilets in the more
rural areas or at stops during the longer drives.
A NOTE ABOUT TRANSFERS
The Lycian Way & Ephesus itinerary has been designed to cover several distinct
regions of Turkey, as well as to offer in-depth experiences in each region: from
the city of Istanbul, to the Antalyan Peninsula of the south, and the Ionian
region around Ephesus. Travel between these regions requires several long
drives on coastal and smaller regional roads. Days with long drives are broken up
as much as possible by walks, cultural visits, and meals, and may require
departures as early as 7:00 a.m. Some non-travel days can also be full, beginning
early in the morning, with shorter transfers between coastal hotels and walking
trails and sites of interest located farther inland within the Taurus Mountain
range. We assure you that the tour has been designed to provide you with a rich
experience in Turkeybalancing opportunities to walk and relax in beautiful
authentic locales with the logistics of covering a fairly large geographic area.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

15

2014 Country Walkers

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
For more than 35 years, CW has been a leader in active travel, with responsible
tourism an integral part of our core values. Our tours reflect our dedication to
best travel practicesand to the preservation of indigenous cultures and the
environment. We invite you to learn more about our efforts and giving back
initiatives.
Heres just one example that highlights our sustainable practices:
Turkish Delight: On our trip to Turkey, we delight in supporting Turkmen
Carpet, a local initiative near Ephesus. At this school and production
cooperative, we receive an entertaining and educational lecture on Turkish tribal
art and weavings, watch a hands-on demonstration by local weavers, and are
shown an incredible array of carpets over tea and coffee. Turkmen Carpet is
unique in that it draws on both traditional and contemporary designs and
weaving techniques; teaches young girls from within the district how to obtain
natural dyes to apply to the yarn and weave distinctive pieces; and buys carpets
made by students for resale. Of course, if you find the perfect carpet for your
living room, youll know that your investment will go a long way in supporting a
good cause.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

16

2014 Country Walkers

Tour Facts at a Glance

TOUR LENGTH
10 days, 9 nights
DEPARTURE DATES
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
MEETING POINT
The Marmara Antalya Hotel, Antalya, Turkey, 8:30 a.m.
DEPARTURE POINT
Levni Hotel & Spa, Istanbul, Turkey, after breakfast
TOUR PRICE
$5,498 (Single+$650)
Mandatory internal airfare of $200 will be added to your tour price. Airfare cost
subject to change.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated moderate, with an
average of 4 to 6 miles (2 to 3 hours) per day. While the mileage is not
significant, trails are not well-traveled and involve walking on uneven terrain and
loose rocks, so sure-footedness is essential. Except for the shorter walks to and
around archaeological sites and in Istanbul, hikes typically start with a steady
climb followed by a sustained downhill, with some steep and rocky sections.
Walks take place mostly on single-track forest trails, but the terrain also includes
dirt, sand, or grassy parts.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

17

2014 Country Walkers

Due to the tricky footing, walking sticks are highly recommended for this tour.
Options are limited to skipping some of the walks or visits and relaxing at a
village taverna, on the beach, or at the hotels swimming pool. This tour
concentrates on ancient history and covers a large geographical area, with hotels
located in coastal towns, while walks and sites of interest lie farther inland,
therefore, most days start early and involve several transfers and hops on and off
the van.
INCLUSIONS
Two expert, local guides (for groups of 8 or more), with you 24/7
All meals except two dinners; local beer and wine with dinner
All accommodations while on tour
Transportation from the meeting point to the departure point
Entrance fees and special events as noted in the itinerary
The unbeatable and cumulative experience of the CW staff
GRATUITIES
Gratuities for all hotels, meals, and services that are included in your tour price
will be paid by CW. Should you wish to tip your CW guide(s), the standard in the
industry ranges from $10 to $15 per person, per day (or $20 to $30 per couple,
per day), and can be paid in USD or local currency.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

18

2014 Country Walkers

Traveling To and From Your Tour

MEETING POINT
The Marmara Antalya Hotel, Antalya, Turkey, 8:30 a.m.
Your guide(s) will be wearing a CW shirt. Please be dressed for walking.
MOST CONVENIENT AIRPORT
Antalya Havalimani Airport (AYT), Antalya, Turkey
aytport.com

GETTING TO THE MEETING POINT

There are no direct flights from the U.S. to Antalya. Several major carriers,
including Turkish Airlines (turkishairlines.com), offer flights with only one
connection in a major European city. From Antalya Airport, the Marmara
Antalya Hotel (meeting-point hotel) is about a 25-minute drive toward the city
center, along the coast in the Lara District. The best way to get there from the
airport is by taxi and it will cost around $25 to $30. There is no public
transportation that is easy to use, so we definitely recommend a taxi. Most taxi
drivers speak English, but we suggest that you carry the hotel name and address
with you in writing.
PRE-TOUR ACCOMMODATIONS
We recommend arriving in Turkey at least one day before the tour starts. This
will give you time to rest after your travels and recover from any effects of jet
lag. You may wish to stay at the Marmara Antalya Hotel, our meeting-point
hotel, where CW has blocked a number of rooms. This modern-design hotel is
the ideal place to relax before the tour begins, with its 50-meter swimming pool
and spa. Please contact CW directly to make your reservations. Rooms will only
be held until 45 days prior to the tour date, therefore after this time reservations
cannot be guaranteed.
The Marmara Antalya Hotel
Sirinyali Mah, Lara Antalya
07160 Turkey
Tel 011 90 424 249 3600
Email antalya-info@themarmarahotels.com
antalya.themarmarahotels.com

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

19

2014 Country Walkers

Rates: $219 for a sea-view standard double and $169 for a sea-view standard
single
DELAYS AND LATE ARRIVALS
If you are delayed while traveling or for any reason miss the scheduled group
meeting, please telephone our local operator in Antalya, Turkey: Turker Travel,
at 242 419 2441 (these numbers must be preceded by 011 90 if calling from
outside Turkey) and leave a message for your guide(s) as to your estimated time
of arrival. Since many of our tours begin on a weekend, and due to the time
change, it is NOT advisable to leave this message at the CW office.
TOUR DEPARTURE POINT AND TIME
Levni Hotel & Spa, Istanbul, Turkey, after breakfast
MOST CONVENIENT AIRPORT
Istanbul Ataturk Airport (IST), Istanbul, Turkey
ataturkairport.com

LEAVING ISTANBUL
You are free to depart from the hotel in Istanbul at your leisure. Taxis to Ataturk
Airport can be arranged by the hotel concierge and cost approximately $25, or
45 lira. The journey takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the
time of day and traffic. Direct flights from Istanbul to the U.S. are available
through several major carriers.
POST-TOUR ACCOMMODATIONS
Should you wish to stay and explore the fascinating city of Istanbul following the
tour (highly recommended), please contact the Levni Hotel & Spa directly to
make your reservation.
For specialized guided walking tours of Istanbul, we recommend contacting
Context Travel, a network of architects, historians, and art historians who
organize exceptional walking seminars. For further information and to request
reservations, please visit contexttravel.com, or contact Context Travel directly,
toll-free, at 888.467.1986, or 215.392.0303, or via email at
info@contexttravel.com. Please mention that CW referred you.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

20

2014 Country Walkers

CW Information & Policies

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES
CW guarantees the departure of every tour*no exceptions and no
disappointments! From the moment you make your deposit, you can start
preparing for your adventure. We take care of all the details to ensure a seamless,
small-group experience (with an average of 6 or 7 guests per guide). For best
availability, reserve your trip today!
*except in cases of force majeure
RESERVATIONS
Reservations for this tour may be made by calling CW at 800.464.9255. We can
confirm your reservation with a deposit of $500 per person. Final tour cost is
due 90 days prior to tour departure date. As arrangements are confirmed at least
a year in advance, the tour price is subject to change.
GUEST RESPONSIBILITIES
Each guest has the responsibility to select a trip appropriate to his/her abilities
and interests and to prepare for the trip by carefully reading the confirmation
materials. To join this trip, you must be in good health and capable of
completing activities as described in the day-to-day itinerary. Our in-house
experts welcome the opportunity to discuss the tour in more detail. In order to
help us meet your needs and preferences, please note any health or physical
conditions on your Guest Information Forms and return them to CW by 90 days
prior to the tour start date.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations received 91 days or more prior to the tour start date will incur a
loss of $100; cancellations received between 90 and 61 days prior to the tour
start date incur a loss of 25 percent of the tour price; there are no refunds within
60 days of the tour start date. You may transfer your reservation, depending on
availability, from one trip to another (in the same calendar year) by notifying us
in writing 91 days prior to the trip for a transfer fee of $50 per person, after
which time our cancellation policy applies.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

21

2014 Country Walkers

TRAVEL INSURANCE
We offer guests the opportunity to purchase a Travel Protection Plan. Please
contact us for details.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Air or other travel arrangements to and from your tour are not included in the
price of your trip. We encourage you to contact your local travel agent, or Better
Travel, a Vermont-based agency (800.331.6996 or
bettertravel@madriver.com), for any additional air, hotel, rail, or transfer
arrangements you may need.

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

22

2014 Country Walkers

Select Experiences
CW Selects are active and cultural explorations handcrafted to immerse you in
and showcase the best of a city, region, or combination of the two. Combine
them with other CW trips or enjoy them as a stand-alone interlude, to complete
or complement your travel experience. Please call for details.

CAPPADOCIA | POST-TOUR SELECT

Magical Cappadocia fascinates with its
astounding topography and far-reaching history.
This unique region of Turkey is defined by a
lunar-like landscape of stone columns and spires
carved over the ages by the elements, and houses
and churches built into stone cliffsincluding
your beautifully restored, award-winning hotel.
You walk colored canyons to frescoed Byzantine-era cave churches and the
wind-sculpted fairy chimneys. Rural traditions run strong and you share the
route with farmers leading their donkeys and carts to apricot orchards and
vineyards, stroll villages with rows of tomatoes and peppers drying on rooftops,
greet folks at their doorsteps wearing the regions finery, and learn about Sufism
and the order of the Whirling Dervishes at a fascinating evening performance.
4 days, 3 nights / from $2,398 (Single from +$350)

ISTANBUL | PRE/POST-TOUR SELECT

Discover the magnificent sights, sounds, and
tastes of Istanbul, the ancient and diverse
metropolis offering up a wealth of architecture,
captivating markets, intriguing waterfronts, and
seagoing excitement. Two full days of in-depth
guided walking lead you to the citys
incomparable monuments and iconic streets
wind through Roman foundations, past Byzantine mosaics, and amongst the
grandeur of Ottoman mosques and palaces. A city-center contemporary hotel is
perfectly located for exploring and for relaxing in plush comfort.
3 days, 2 nights / from $1,148 (Single from +325)

800.464.9255 / CWadventure.com

23

2014 Country Walkers