Trails Of The Turquoise Coast

8 days - from $1050

A Mediterranean biking adventure in spectacular surroundings
An excellent introduction to mountain biking or a relaxing break for the more experienced rider, southern Turkey offers some fantastically varied riding in changing surroundings. Every day has a downhill bias, with 1000m or more of descent: vehicle support to take us up to the start of the day's riding, and all with a stunning backdrop of mountains, canyons, cedar forests and the ruins of ancient civilizations. En route we have lots of time for impromptu picnics and swimming stops, and the chance to experience the famous hospitality of Turkish village life. Our last four nights are based in the lively port town of Kas, our base for great evening entertainment. Kas is comparatively unspoilt, with locally-run restaurants and bars along the marina and side streets extending in towards the town square. With a free day, adrenaline junkies can finish the week with optional paragliding, scuba diving, or sea kayaking. Alternatively, simply relax in the sun on one of the nearby Mediterranean beaches.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Gombe. 2 Short transfer to start point at Tekke village near Elmali; ride to Yazir, passing Avlan Lake and the Ordubek Plateau; overnight village house near Gursu. 3 We reach an altitude of 1500m for some memorable scenery near Boldag before descending to the fishing town of Finike. 4 Ride on parts of the Lycian Way through beautiful countryside to the ancient town of Myra (entrance payable locally); transfer to Kas. 5 Free day in Kas for optional activities such as SCUBA diving, sea kayaking or tandem paragliding. 6 Seyret trail through ancient cedar forests with stunning coastal views of Kas (1500m descent) 7 Transfer to mountain village above Kas; ride up into the cedar forest and follow trails traversing the wooded valley, on some long fast descents and a few climbs. 8 End Kas.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 40 km (25 miles) No. of days cycling: 5 Vehicle support: 100%. Terrain and route: 80% off road. A mixture of tracks and trails with fast descents and some climbing. Some off road experience advisable but not essential.
Group size: Normally 6 to 14, plus leader and drivers.
Accommodation: 6 nights 2-star hotels, some with pools, 1 night village house.
Food: All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $402.50
Trip Reference: MTK
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Notes: Local Bike Hire: Specialized Hardrock Comp with suspension forks GBP90, paid on booking
Trip Reference: MTK