Gelidonya Feneri
A lighthouse on Cape Taşlık in Kumluca, standing 237 metres above the sea. It is reachable only on foot along the Lycian Way, and its view over five islets and the open Mediterranean is among the most striking in the region.
Gelidonya Lighthouse was built by the French in 1936 and is the highest-set lighthouse on Turkey's coastline. The five small islets off the cape (the Beş Adalar) have formed a dangerous passage for sailors since antiquity, which is why the light matters so much.
In the shallows just off the cape, a landmark excavation took place in 1960: a Bronze Age shipwreck from the 13th century BC was raised. That dig is regarded as the first scientific example of modern underwater archaeology, and the finds are displayed in the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology.
There is no road to the lighthouse. The Lycian Way path from Karaöz village reaches the cape through pine forest in about 5 kilometres and two hours of walking. The sea view never breaks along the way; from the lighthouse you see the islets below and open Mediterranean in two directions. Starting early matters to avoid the hottest hours.
- Best time
- Spring and autumn
- Budget
- Free
Tips
- The path from Karaöz takes about 2 hours; set out early.
- There is no fountain on the way — carry at least 2 litres of water.
- It is windy around the lighthouse; a light windbreaker helps.