Mountain Tahtali: Follow the Lycian Way

About Mountain Tahtali

Are you ready to enjoy the views of Antalya city under your feet while you are soaking up the fresh air in your cable car? Antalya has a lot to offer when it comes to nature and history, Mountain Tahtali gives you something better and combines these two.

Standing on the route of Lycian Way, Mountain Tahtali bears traces of ancient times of Anatolia. You can follow the trail while enjoying the fresh air.

With the green forests and canyons lying under below, you can hike or take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain.

Recharge yourself with a rejuvenating trip to Mountain Tahtali.

Top attractions near Mountain Tahtali

How to get to Mountain Tahtali?

To get to Mountain Tahtali, also known as Mount Olympos, in the Antalya province of Turkey, you have a few options:

Cable Car (Tahtali Aerial Cableway): The most popular and convenient way to reach the summit of Mount Tahtali is by taking the Tahtali Aerial Cableway. The cable car departs from the base station near the town of Beycik, which is about a 30-minute drive from the city of Kemer. You can reach Beycik by car or public transportation. The cable car ride takes approximately 10 minutes and offers panoramic views as it ascends to the summit.

Private Transportation: If you have your own vehicle or prefer a more personalized experience, you can drive to the base station of the cable car in Beycik. From Antalya, it takes about an hour to reach the cable car base station. The road to Beycik is well-signposted, and you can use GPS navigation or follow directions provided by your accommodation or a local guide.

Organized Tours: Many tour operators in the region offer organized tours to Mount Tahtali. These tours usually include transportation from your accommodation to the cable car base station and back. They may also include additional activities such as guided hiking, lunch, or other attractions in the area. You can book these tours through local tour agencies or online platforms.

mountain-tahtali-antalya

What to pack for Mountain Tahtali?

When packing for a visit to Mountain Tahtali (Mount Olympos), here are some essential items to consider:

Comfortable Clothing: Wear lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the outdoor activities you plan to engage in, such as hiking or paragliding. Opt for layers to adjust to changing temperatures.

Sturdy Footwear: Choose comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for walking and hiking. Consider footwear with good traction, as some trails may be uneven or rocky.

Sun Protection: Bring sun protection essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. The higher altitude can intensify sun exposure.

Weather Protection: Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or a windbreaker, especially if you’re visiting during the cooler months or when the weather is unpredictable.

Water and Snacks: Carry sufficient water to stay hydrated throughout your visit. Additionally, pack some energy-boosting snacks to keep you fueled during hikes or other activities.

Camera or Smartphone: Capture the stunning views and memorable moments at Mountain Tahtali. Bring your camera or smartphone to take photographs and record your experiences.

Backpack or Day Bag: A small backpack or day bag will come in handy to carry your essentials comfortably while keeping your hands free.

Cash and Identification: Bring some cash for any entrance fees, parking fees, or purchases you may make during your visit. Carry a form of identification with you, as it may be required for certain activities or entry points.

Medications and First Aid Kit: If you have any specific medications or require a first aid kit, ensure you bring them along.

Where to stay near Mountain Tahtali?

Here are some suggestions:

Beycik: Beycik is a small village located at the base of Mount Tahtali and is the starting point for the cable car ride to the summit. It offers a few guesthouses and small hotels where you can stay in a peaceful mountain setting.

Kemer: Kemer is a popular tourist town located on the coast, approximately 30 minutes away from the cable car base station. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses.

Tekirova: Tekirova is another coastal town located near Mount Tahtali, approximately 40 minutes away from the cable car base station. It offers a mix of hotels and resorts, many of which are situated along the beautiful coastline.

Antalya: If you prefer to stay in a larger city with more amenities, Antalya is a great option. It is the largest city in the region and offers a wide range of accommodation choices, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Antalya is approximately an hour’s drive from Mount Tahtali.

What type of climate does Mountain Tahtali have?

Here are some characteristics of the climate in this region:

Mild Winters: Winters in Mountain Tahtali are generally mild and relatively warm compared to inland areas. The average temperatures during the winter months (December to February) range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). However, temperatures can drop further at higher altitudes, so it’s advisable to check weather conditions before your visit.

Warm Summers: Summers in Mountain Tahtali are hot and dry. The average temperatures during the summer months (June to August) range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The mountain location offers cooler temperatures compared to coastal areas, providing a pleasant escape from the summer heat.

Moderate Spring and Autumn: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring moderate temperatures to Mountain Tahtali. During these seasons, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the mountain.

Rainfall: The region experiences most of its rainfall during the winter months. Rain showers are less frequent during the summer, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

When is the best time to visit Mountain Tahtali?

The best time to visit Mountain Tahtali, also known as Mount Olympos, depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Here are some considerations for each season:

Spring (March to May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Mountain Tahtali, as the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. The mountain is adorned with colorful flowers and lush vegetation during this season.

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Mountain Tahtali. The temperatures can reach 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) during the day, providing a respite from the coastal heat. It is a popular time for activities such as paragliding and taking the cable car ride to the summit. However, do note that it can be crowded, and the temperatures can be hot, so it’s advisable to bring sun protection and stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler evenings. The foliage starts to change colors, creating a picturesque setting. It is an excellent time for hiking, enjoying the natural beauty, and taking in the stunning views.

Winter (December to February): Winter is the off-season for Mountain Tahtali. While the temperatures are mild compared to other regions, there may be colder temperatures at higher altitudes. The mountain might experience snowfall during this time, creating a beautiful winter landscape. Winter is a quieter time, ideal for those seeking solitude and tranquility.

Top activities near Mountain Tahtali

The history of Mountain Tahtali

Mountain Tahtali, also known as Mount Olympos, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here are some key points about the history of this remarkable mountain:

Ancient Lycian Civilization: The area around Mountain Tahtali was inhabited by the ancient Lycians, an indigenous Anatolian civilization. The Lycians built numerous cities and settlements in the region, and Mount Olympos was considered sacred to them.

Greek Influence: In the 4th century BCE, the region came under the influence of Greek culture and was part of the Hellenistic Seleucid Empire. The Greek influence can still be seen in the ancient ruins and artifacts found in the area.

Roman Era: During the Roman period, Mount Tahtali and its surroundings were part of the Roman province of Lycia et Pamphylia. The Romans further developed the cities and infrastructure in the region, leaving behind impressive ruins and structures.

Byzantine Era: Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the region came under Byzantine rule. Several Byzantine fortresses and churches were built on and around the mountain during this time.

Ottoman Empire: The Ottoman Empire, which ruled the area from the 14th century onwards, also left its mark on Mountain Tahtali. Several Ottoman-era structures, such as mosques and hamams (Turkish baths), can be found in nearby towns and villages.

Modern Era: In recent times, Mount Tahtali has gained popularity as a tourist destination, primarily for its stunning natural beauty and the cable car ride that takes visitors to the summit. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and landscape.

mountain-tahtali

Famous firsts and greatest of Mountain Tahtali

While Mountain Tahtali, also known as Mount Olympos, is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance, there are no specific “firsts” or notable achievements directly associated with the mountain itself. However, the region surrounding Mountain Tahtali has several notable features and attractions. Here are some significant aspects:

Cable Car: The cable car ride to the summit of Mount Tahtali is one of the longest and highest in the world, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Ancient Ruins: The region around Mountain Tahtali is home to the ancient city of Olympos, which dates back to the Hellenistic period. The ruins of Olympos, including the well-preserved Roman theater and various structures, are among the highlights of the area.

Natural Beauty: Mountain Tahtali is part of the Olympos Beydaglari National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and enjoying the stunning natural landscapes.

Olympos Coastal Area: The coastal area near Mountain Tahtali is known for its beautiful beaches, including Cirali Beach and Adrasan Beach. These beaches offer pristine stretches of sand and crystal-clear waters, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

Chimera Flames: Located near Mountain Tahtali, the eternal flames of the Chimera is a unique natural phenomenon. These flames have been burning for thousands of years and are believed to be the result of natural gas emissions from the earth.

Historical places near Mountain Tahtali

Mountain Tahtali, also known as Mount Olympos, is surrounded by a region rich in historical sites and landmarks. Here are some of the notable historical places you can explore in the vicinity of Mountain Tahtali:

Olympos Ancient City: Located at the foot of Mountain Tahtali, Olympos is an ancient Lycian city that dates back to the Hellenistic period. It features well-preserved ruins, including a Roman theater, ancient tombs, and remnants of a Byzantine-era church.

Phaselis Ancient City: Situated on a peninsula between two harbors, Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city known for its well-preserved ruins. It includes an amphitheater, aqueducts, a necropolis, and the remains of a Roman bath complex.

Patara Ancient City: Located near the coastal town of Patara, Patara Ancient City was an important Lycian and Roman settlement. It is known for its well-preserved theater, monumental arch, Roman baths, and necropolis.

Myra Ancient City: Myra was an ancient Lycian city that flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Its most notable feature is the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs, as well as a well-preserved Roman theater and an impressive ancient Roman bridge.

Simena (Kalekoy): Situated on a hill overlooking the sea, Simena is a charming village with a small ancient theater and the ruins of a medieval castle. Visitors can explore the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area

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The 15 best Things to do near Mountain Tahtali

  1. Take a cable car ride to the summit of Mount Tahtali and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  2. Explore the ancient city of Olympos at the foot of the mountain, with its well-preserved ruins and Roman theater.
  3. Hike through the Olympos Beydaglari National Park and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
  4. Visit the eternal flames of the Chimera, a natural phenomenon where flames have been burning for thousands of years.
  5. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cirali and Adrasan, located near Mountain Tahtali.
  6. Take a boat tour along the coast to admire the stunning scenery and hidden coves.
  7. Go paragliding from the summit of Mount Tahtali and experience a thrilling adventure.
  8. Enjoy a picnic or a barbecue in the picturesque surroundings of the mountain.
  9. Visit the nearby ancient cities of Phaselis and Myra to explore their fascinating ruins.
  10. Take a jeep safari or off-road adventure to explore the rugged landscapes and hidden gems of the region.
  11. Discover the underwater world by snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
  12. Visit the nearby village of Ulupinar and enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in a riverside restaurant.
  13. Participate in a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna.
  14. Go horseback riding through the scenic trails surrounding Mountain Tahtali.
  15. Capture stunning photographs of the sunset from the summit of Mount Tahtali, as the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant colors.

Top things to do near Mountain Tahtali

What are the best places to visit near Mountain Tahtali?

Here are some of the best places to visit in the vicinity of Mountain Tahtali:

Olympos Ancient City: Explore the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Olympos, located at the foot of Mountain Tahtali. Marvel at the well-preserved Roman theater, ancient tombs, and remnants of a Byzantine-era church.

Phaselis Ancient City: Visit the ancient city of Phaselis, situated on a peninsula between two harbors. Discover its well-preserved ruins, including an amphitheater, aqueducts, and a Roman bath complex.

Cirali Beach: Relax on the pristine shores of Cirali Beach, which offers beautiful turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along the beach and soak up the natural beauty.

Yanartas (Chimera): Witness the natural phenomenon of the eternal flames at Yanartas, also known as the Chimera. These flames have been burning for centuries and create a mesmerizing sight at night.

Ulupinar: Visit the village of Ulupinar, nestled in a lush valley. Enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in one of the riverside restaurants, surrounded by the calming sounds of flowing water.

Gelidonya Lighthouse: Take a boat tour to see the historic Gelidonya Lighthouse, perched on a rocky coastline. Learn about its maritime history and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.

Tahtali Ski Resort: If you visit during the winter season, consider heading to the nearby Tahtali Ski Resort. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on the slopes while admiring the scenic mountain vistas.

The best Mountain Tahtali tours

When visiting Mountain Tahtali, there are several tours and activities available that can enhance your experience and provide you with a comprehensive exploration of the area. Here are some of the best Mountain Tahtali tours:

Cable Car Ride to Tahtali Summit: Take a scenic cable car ride to the summit of Mount Tahtali, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the Mediterranean Sea.

Olympos and Chimaera Tour: Join a guided tour that combines a visit to the ancient city of Olympos with an evening trip to witness the eternal flames of the Chimaera.

Jeep Safari in Beydaglari National Park: Embark on an exciting jeep safari through the Beydaglari National Park, exploring off-road trails, enjoying the stunning natural scenery, and visiting hidden spots.

Phaselis Boat Tour: Take a boat tour along the coastline, stopping at the ancient city of Phaselis. Explore the ruins, swim in secluded bays, and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

Yanartas and Ulupinar Tour: Discover the natural wonder of the eternal flames at Yanartas and enjoy a traditional Turkish meal in the scenic village of Ulupinar.

Top tours near Mountain Tahtali

The best restaurants near Mountain Tahtali

Here are some recommended restaurants near Mountain Tahtali:

Olympos Restaurant: Located in the nearby village of Olympos, this restaurant offers a variety of Turkish and international dishes. Enjoy a meal on their outdoor terrace while surrounded by lush greenery.

Cirali Beach Restaurants: Along the shores of Cirali Beach, you’ll find several restaurants serving fresh seafood, traditional Turkish cuisine, and international dishes. Many of these restaurants offer beachfront dining with beautiful views.

Ulupinar Restaurants: The village of Ulupinar, known for its natural beauty and riverside setting, is home to several charming restaurants. Enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, including grilled fish, kebabs, and mezes, in a serene and picturesque environment.

Adrasan Beach Restaurants: Adrasan Beach, located to the west of Mountain Tahtali, is known for its beautiful sandy shores and clear waters. There are several beachfront restaurants here where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning coastal views.

Kemer

Kemer, known as one of the most significant holiday locations of Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters and many great hotels that offer high quality service.

Alanya

Are you interested in following the footsteps of the famous geographers Strabo, Piri Reis and well-celebrated Ottoman explorers and travelers Ibn Battuta and Evliya Celebi? Would you want to know what is so special about this town that attracted all these adveturers? OK, let’s see then.

Belek

Belek, known as one of the most significant holiday locations of Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters and many great hotels that offer high quality service.

Kundu

Kundu, known as one of the most significant holiday locations of Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters and many great hotels that offer high quality service.

Lara

Lara, known as one of the most significant holiday locations of Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters and many great hotels that offer high quality service.

Side

Are you looking for a holiday full of sun, sea and beach? Well, Side is some of the most obvious locations for your choice. However, Side is full of surprises.
Ruins of ancient city in Side, Turkey

Manavgat

Antalya has no shortage of natural wonders and Manavgat is one of them. It gracefully earns the title with its scenic Manavgat Waterfall. The harmony of the nature is just worth to see. Waters cascading from the top of the hill and falling down with a misty ambience.

Kas

Kas, known as one of the most significant holiday locations of Turkey, earns this title with its mild weather, great sandy beaches, turquoise Mediterranean waters and many great hotels that offer high quality service.

Kalkan

Are you interested in nature or history when making holiday plans? How about both?

Demre

We always pictured Santa Claus as an old man with gray hair and blue eyes. Is it correct though? Considered that he is originally from Anatolia, in Demre specifically, so he is more likely to have a slightly tanned skin tone and brown eyes.

Sapadere Canyon

Turkey has no shortage when it comes to natural wonders. One of most mesmerizing one of these landmarks is Antalya’s Sapadere Canyon where you can soak up all the nature and have a peaceful day. If you are looking for a “Into to Wild” adventure, Sapadere Canyon is just the right place for you.

Aspendos

Are you ready to discover the best-preserved theatre building from the ancient era of Anatolia? We are talking about Aspendos, the ancient Greco-Roman city has has hosted many civilizations on its lands. Started as an ancient Pamphylian city in Asia Minor, it is ruled by Lycians, then Persians… Of course Alexander the Great came to the stage at some point and conquered the city, then Romans and Byzantians reigned before Seljuks, Ottomans and lastly the Turkish Republic. The city theatre of Aspendos associated with many of these civilizations, it is called as the Greek Theatre, the Roman Theatre, etc…

Myra

We always pictured Santa Claus as an old man with gray hair and blue eyes. Is it correct though? Considered that he is originally from Anatolia, from Myra specifically, so he is more likely to have a slightly tanned skin tone and brown eyes.

St. Nicholas Church Demre

We always pictured Santa Claus as an old man with gray hair and blue eyes. Is it correct though? Considered that he is originally from Anatolia, he is more likely to have a slightly tanned skin tone and brown eyes.

Xanthos

There is not a lot of city in world history that is famous with its passion of freedom and independence. Xanthos is a well-known ancient Anatolian city that is besieged by many powerful armies including Persians, Macedonians and Romans.

Sunken City Ruins of Simena Kekova

Sailing along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea and exploring one of the most exquisite underwater treasures of the world, the Sunken City Ruins of Simena in Kekova. This is what we call hitting two birds with one stone.

Duden Waterfalls

Antalya never disappoints when it comes to offering amazing travel experiences. It is no surprise it hosts one of the most glamorous natural wonders of Turkey, Duden Waterfalls.

Lycia

Lycia is an ancient region standing on the southern part of Turkey, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by the glorious Taurus Mountains. Seems like the region claimed a great place for settlement.

Koprulu Canyon

Do you get adrenaline rush at times? We know just the right place for you. In Koprulu Canyon you can the chance to canyoning, rafting and ziplining. Could it get any better? Well, in Koprulu Canyon it can.

Koprulu Canyon National Park

You can enjoy the amazing views, crystal clear refreshing waters, a green environment as far as the eye can reach and high cliffs and the raw beauty of waterfalls.

Manavgat Waterfall

Antalya has no shortage of natural wonders and Manavgat Waterfall is one of them. It gracefully earns the title with its mesmerizing beauty. The harmony of the nature is worth to see. Waters cascading from the top of the hill and falling down with a misty ambience.
antalya manavgat

Selge

Are you fond of traveling? Do you sometimes feel that your ancestors may be great warriors?

Pamphylia

There is something about ancient cities, right? A strange feeling, the goosebumps you get while wandering along the ruins and remains of the past... It must be because even though these cities are like ghost towns nowadays, we still know that they were the center of trade, art, religion back then.

Perga

Anatolia has no shortage of ancient gems and Perga is no exception. The heart of ancient Pamphylia region situated between the two rivers Catarrhactes (Duden) and Cestrus (Aksu) offers and exquisite nature and great history to its visitors.

Patara

Is Santa Claus really from the North Pole? As fas as the history speaks he is originally from Anatolia, the village Patara specifically. So he is more likely to have a slightly tanned skin tone and brown eyes.

Phaselis

You must have realized by now, that Turkey has some of the most exquisite ancient cities. One of the most obvious one is the city of Phaselis, standing between Antalya’s popular cities of Kemer and Olympos.

Pisidia

Mediterranean parts of Turkey host some of the most interesting ancient regions, all have some unique points to distinguish themselves. Pisidia is no exception. The ancient region stands on top of the mountain range, creating an incomparable harmony of nature and history.

Taurus Mountains

Being one of the most glorious mountain complex of Turkey, Taurus Mountains hosted many ancient cities like Termessos, Selge, Sagalassos and many more.

Termessos

Alexander the Great was a great commander, he conquered the lands from Greece to the India. But when he came to Termessos for another victory, Termessos was like: “You shall not pass”

Ucansu Waterfall

Yes, Antalya is a great holiday location with its sea and beaches. No one can deny it is very very hot, though. If you are in need of taking a refreshing break from Antalya’s hot weather, why not pay a visit to the natural wonder of Ucansu Waterfall.

Antalya

Did you know that the real birthplace of Saint Nicholas is in Demre (Myra), Antalya? Well, now you know. Isn’t it amazing that a city has it all from natural wonders and great beaches to an incomparable historical legacy piled up for centuries. Antalya is known as the biggest city lying along the Mediterranean coast and one of the most popular tourism destinations of Turkey.

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