The Snow-Capped Roof of the Mediterranean
Rising steeply from the western shore of Antalya Bay and extending inland, the Beydağları range is the section of the Taurus Mountains closest to the Mediterranean — and its highest. The summit of Kızlarsivrisi Peak reaches 3,086 metres. That figure is worth pausing on: within 30 to 35 kilometres of a coastline where people swim in the sea, snow lies on the ground for four to five months of the year. The geographic contradiction that places snow-covered peaks within sight of a beach resort is the defining characteristic of this range.
Beydağları is protected under two separate designations: Beydağları Coastal National Park, which covers the shoreline and the ancient cities of Olympos, Phaselis, and Çıralı; and Beydağları National Park, which covers the upper mountain areas including Kızlarsivrisi Peak.
An Endemic Botanical Treasure
Beydağları is one of Turkey's botanically richest mountain ranges. Its position at the transition between the Mediterranean coastal climate and the continental climate of the higher elevations allows plant communities from entirely different climate zones to coexist within a relatively compact area. More than 2,000 plant species have been recorded across the range, a significant proportion of which are endemic — found nowhere else on earth. Mountain tulips, rock hyacinths, and orchid species form the botanical character of the range and draw botanists and nature photographers from across Europe and North America each spring.
The Backbone of the Lycian Way
Approximately half of the 760-kilometre Lycian Way passes through the Beydağları range, traversing its most dramatic and demanding sections. From the high ridges, the Mediterranean is visible on one side and the inland plateaus of central Anatolia on the other. Gelidonya Lighthouse, Tahtalı Mountain, Yanartaş, and Olympos Ancient City — among Turkey's most recognised natural and historical landmarks — are all positioned on or at the foot of this range.
Wildlife
The upper elevations of Beydağları remain largely undisturbed by human settlement for most of the year. The Anatolian wild mountain goat — a threatened species — is among the most important animals living in this range. Lynx, wolf, fox, and badger have also been documented, alongside raptors including eagle and falcon, and numerous reptile species.
Hiking and Mountaineering
Two main centres are used for accessing Beydağları for mountain walking and summit climbing. Kemer is the most convenient coastal base for the southern and southeastern slopes. Elmalı, in the cooler interior, is the preferred base for high-altitude walks and the approach to Kızlarsivrisi Peak.
The ascent of Kızlarsivrisi does not require technical climbing skills but is a long and demanding mountain walk. Appropriate for experienced mountain hikers, it should not be attempted alone or without prior mountain experience. Weather conditions at altitude can change very rapidly.
Practical Information
- Location: Mountain range covering the western and northern parts of Antalya province, spanning the Kemer, Kumluca, and Elmalı districts.
- Getting there: The coastal section of Beydağları Coastal National Park is accessed via Kemer and Olympos. The upper mountain areas are approached via Elmalı. Guided tours from Elmalı are recommended for the Kızlarsivrisi ascent.
- Entrance fee: Beydağları Coastal National Park charges entry; MüzeKart not valid. Upper mountain areas are free.
- Best time to visit: Spring is ideal for hiking and botanical tourism. Upper elevations are snow-covered in winter and suitable only for experienced mountaineers. Summer is busy at coastal sections; upper elevations remain cool.
- Combine with: Tahtalı Mountain, Olympos Ancient City, Yanartaş, Gelidonya Lighthouse, and the Lycian Way are all natural combinations.
