At Waterfall Polikarya + Kupel 960 — Vodopadov and Alpiyskikh Lugov: A Trail to Open Summits

Route at a glance

The valley becomes cooler and more dramatic as the path approaches the water. The combination of shaded valley paths, a rocky stream bed and damp cliffs gives the journey its variety. The most distinctive places are Waterfall Polikaria + Kupel' 960, Na Waterfall Polikaria + Kupel' 960 and Na Waterfall Polikaria. It is worth allowing time for a brief stop at each one.

Route suitability

Without a car Difficult

With children No

With a dog With caution

By bike No

With a stroller No

Mobile signal Patchy

Getting there

Without a car

Travel first by intercity coach to Fethiye bus station. Continue by local dolmuş towards Ovacık, Ölüdeniz, Faralya or Kabak; a taxi may be needed for a remote trailhead near the trailhead. Because the start and finish are in different places, check the return service in advance, arrange a transfer or leave a second vehicle near the finish.

By car

Use the D400 and then the local roads to Ovacık, Faralya, Kabak or the relevant village. Allow extra time on the narrow coastal switchbacks. Because the start and finish are in different places, check the return service in advance, arrange a transfer or leave a second vehicle near the finish.

Parking

Leave the car at an official village car park, guesthouse or signed trailhead. Do not obstruct the narrow roads in Faralya or Kabak.

What to expect

Waterfall Polikaria + Kupel' 960

Na Waterfall Polikaria + Kupel' 960

Na Waterfall Polikaria

Difficult sections and safety

Long climbs and descents can slow the pace considerably, especially on wet or rocky ground. The finish is separate from the start, so arrange the return journey before setting out. Download an offline map and tell someone when you expect to return.

How much time to allow

Pure moving time - 4–6 hours Complete time on the route - 5–9 hours

Best time to go

Best time: June–September, when the main trails are usually clear of lasting snow

Ice, snow and rapid weather changes are possible at the beginning and end of the season

Check the full-day forecast for the higher parts of the route before setting out

What to bring

shoes with grippy soles

water and food

a charged phone with an offline map

a small first-aid kit

windproof and waterproof layers

a warm layer and a hat

trekking poles if you use them