Explore Türkiye's Aegean through Popular Cycling Routes

Turkey

Türkiye's Aegean region, known as the turquoise coast of happiness, offers an exceptional experience for cycling enthusiasts. With its diverse cycling routes, this area caters to all skill levels and interests. Cyclists are drawn to the Aegean by its beautiful shores, historic villages, ancient cities, and delicious cuisine.

The region's cycling infrastructure goes beyond just trails, offering bicycle-friendly accommodations that provide safe parking, bike cleaning, and repair services. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, the Aegean is a paradise waiting to be explored.

Cycling through History and Nature: EuroVelo 8

One of the most popular cycling routes in Türkiye is EuroVelo 8, also known as the Mediterranean Route. It stretches across 5,900 kilometers, linking 11 countries, and almost 500 kilometers of this route passes through İzmir, Türkiye's third-largest city. Entering through Dikili Port, cyclists are treated to a journey that includes UNESCO World Heritage sites like Pergamon and Ephesus. The route passes through stunning locations such as Karşıyaka, Seferihisar, and the Urla Vineyard Route, where cyclists can stop at local wineries. Along the way, you can marvel at flamingos in the Gediz Delta Bird Paradise and explore the vibrant coastal areas of Alsancak and Alaçatı, where windsurfing opportunities await.

Cycling along EuroVelo 8 is more than just a physical journey—it's a cultural experience, offering riders a chance to explore ancient cities, charming villages, and scenic landscapes. This route is perfect for those who want to mix cycling with historical and natural exploration, making it one of the Aegean's premier cycling experiences.

Conquering Peaks on Marmaris Mountain Biking Trails

For cyclists seeking a more rugged adventure, the Marmaris mountain biking trails in the Muğla region offer challenging terrain with steep climbs and exhilarating descents. These routes are designed for those who crave adventure, winding through pine forests and mountainous landscapes with breathtaking views of virgin bays, fishing villages, and the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

One of the popular routes, the Marmaris-Çamlıbel-Gökbel trail, takes cyclists through pristine hills, while the Marmaris-Karacasöğüt route starts at the Amnistos ancient site and leads through the village of Yeşilbelde, known for its organic agriculture. The Selimiye-Orhaniye-Bayır route is particularly challenging, with cyclists ascending to an altitude of 1,285 meters within a 58-kilometer journey. These trails are ideal for bikers looking for a combination of physical endurance and nature's raw beauty.

Following ECO Trails in Köyceğiz-Ortaca-Dalaman

In the districts of Köyceğiz, Ortaca, and Dalaman, cyclists can explore the ECO Trails, a network of paths created by the Dalyan Tourism, Culture, and Environmental Protection Association. These routes are designed to showcase the area's natural diversity, with wetlands like Köyceğiz Lake, Alagöl, and İztuzu Lake offering a peaceful, scenic ride.

Cyclists on these trails can enjoy panoramic views from mountains such as Çiçekbaba and Ölemez and cool off in the turquoise waters of the region's lakes. Along the way, riders can observe unique wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles and Lycian salamanders, while visiting ancient cities like Kaunos and Telmessos to learn about the region's rich history.