This is a medium to difficult continuous trek through the Koprulu Kanyon National Park, and forms part of the long distance walk from Aspendos to Antioch in Pisidia, in the Turkish Taurus Mountains. The National Park is home to magnificent forests of cedar, oak and pine and for centuries has been a link between the upland pastures and the villages of the river and coast. The trek allows you to immerse yourself in the way of life of the inhabitants of the quaint old stone and timber villages on the route; you will frequently stay in village houses and enjoy village foods.
The trek is mostly supported by minibus, but with additional mule support away from roads.
The trip includes visits to two major Greek/Roman cities and one spectacular, isolated site, visited by St Paul. It mainly follows village tracks and migration routes in use since Roman times in this spectacular area of forests, canyons and peaks. The route crosses the Koprulu River three times, climbing the steep canyon walls on tiny goat paths or hair pinning down forest paths; there are opportunities to swim in the river. We also sample the strength of the river by taking a rafting trip down the rapids. Our route also climbs huge ridges above the tree line, including an ascent to 1900m on a remarkable ancient cobbled mule trail.
CREW :
The trip will be led by Kate Clow and/or Terry Richardson, who together researched way-marked and published two 500 km walking routes in southern Turkey. The full route is described in their guidebook St Paul Trail.
GRADE :
This is a GradeC (medium - hard) trip. Trekking with daysack; average day length 7 hours. Luggage is transported to the next night's stop; on one night we use mules. Minimum 6 maximum 12 people.
EQUIPMENT:
Customers should have a 3- or 4-season sleeping bag and mat, hard soled trekking boots, raingear, torch, swimwear, old plimsoles or deck shoes, sun hat, sunglasses and sunblock, and a daysack. Trekking poles, gloves, hat and survival sack recommended.
ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEALS:
2 nights in pension (Antalya old city), 11 nights in either camp, pension or village house accommodation. Village houses are dormitory style accommodation with mattresses and a shared bathroom. Camps are in
2-person domed tents and are at 'wild' campsites in beautiful settings. Evening meals are typical Turkish dishes, prepared by local women from their own gardens, including soup or salads, and fruit or sweet; maybe barbecue in camp. Lunches are picnics with local produce. Meals include local herbs, yoghurt, cheese and honey. Last dinner not included.
*COST :
Include room and full board, entrance fees to antique sites, all land and sea transportations, transfers to and from airports. They don't include international and inland airfares, soft and alcoholic drinks, optional or additional events, personal spending, tips and gratuities.
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