Mountainbike trails at ancient town of Olympos
- Written by Portal Editor
As part of our joint exploration trip to find new trails for mountain bikes in the Taurus Mountains, we were guests in Olympos again.
The descent from Tahtali the day before had taken a toll on the biker team, so we were able to use the morning for an extensive tour of the valley and the ruined city of Olympos.
Climbers on a steep wall free climbing
After the excellent in-house breakfast, we set off with the owners of the guest huts Mehmet and Nil, always along the river, which was still without water.
On the opposite side, a climber was trying his hand at free climbing on a steep wall, with the appropriate safety equipment of course. A little later, we could already see the first ruins of the ancient city in front of us.
Along the river and the name "Korykos"
Increasingly flourishing trade then led to the first buildings along the river and the name "Korykos".
In the course of further development, the first large buildings were built and the city, like the neighbouring city of Phaselis, became a member of the Lycian League in order to protect themselves against increasing pirate attacks.
But despite this measure, Olympos fell victim to the pirates under their leader Zeniketes, who was first defeated so badly by Publius Servilius Vatia (Isauricus) that he took his own life and that of his family by fire in his fortress.
Parts of the harbour walls are also quite well preserved, although the riverbed is now much higher due to deposited debris. The remaining remains of the buildings on the left side of the river (towards the sea) are now heavily overgrown, so that little can be seen from the narrow path. However, some excavations have been carried out, which have uncovered sarcophagi and the remains of a temple from the 2nd century AD. Numerous graves with inscriptions on the necropolis on the opposite side of the river indicate the wealth of that time. Two more large graves can be found just before you get to the beach at Olympos.
The reason for the fires is a natural gas storage facility
Olympos is now mostly visited by younger backpackers, so the accommodation is tailored to this type of travel. The approximately 3-kilometer-wide pebble beach offers the cleanest water quality and also allows diving and snorkelling, as the rocks on the right-side reach into the water and thus provide shelter for fish. Olympos is also becoming increasingly popular with hikers on the Lycian Hiking Trail, who are looking for a quiet place to spend the night here. Çıralı / Olympos is also known as a breeding ground for sea turtles and has therefore been declared a protected area on the sea side.
The ancient city of Olympos, completely forgotten for a long time, lies on both sides of a small stream, where the remains of a bridge that connected the two parts of the city can still be seen. The remaining building remains are badly dilapidated and largely overgrown, including the small Roman theatre. A former lake is now swampy - here are the remains of a temple from the 2nd century AD. The necropolis with numerous graves and inscriptions is remarkable, although these do not show any Lycian features. In addition to the remains of a Byzantine Basilica, the remains of settlements on a hill bear witness to the impoverishment of the settlement in the Middle Ages. In addition to the ruins, the nearby, approximately three-kilometre-long sandy beach is another attraction for visitors to Olympos.
Olympos - mountain bike trails at the foot of the Tahtalı
A paradise for mountain bikers on the Turkish Riviera
Whether steep downhill passages, flowing single trails or technically demanding sections - the mountain bike trails at the foot of the Tahtalı offer the right challenge for every riding level. In this blog we take you on a tour through this spectacular biking area in Turkey.
The Tahtalı Dağı - A mountain with history
The Tahtalı Dağı (2,365 m) is located in the province of Antalya and is part of the Beydağları National Park. In ancient times, this mountain was considered the seat of the gods and was known as part of the Olympos Mountains. Today, it is not only a popular destination for hikers and cable car tourists, but also for mountain bikers who want to explore the wild trails of this spectacular landscape.
The area is characterized by dense pine forests, rocky mountain slopes and spectacular views of the deep blue Mediterranean. Especially in spring and autumn, the conditions here are perfect for biking - pleasant temperatures, dry trails and hardly any rainfall.
Mountain bike trails on Olympos - what to expect
1. Olympos Flow Trail - Perfect for beginners
Difficulty: Easy to medium
Length: approx. 10 km
Elevation difference: 600 m
This trail starts above Çıralı, an idyllic coastal village, and leads through pine forests down to the sea. It is particularly flowing and offers many beautiful curves, small jumps and a fantastic view. Ideal for beginners and leisure riders!
2. Tahtalı Downhill - pure adrenaline
Difficulty: difficult
Length: approx. 15 km
Difference in altitude: 1,500 m
This challenging trail starts near the mountain station of the Tahtalı cable car. The descent leads over steep scree fields, rooty forest passages and narrow serpentines down to the valley. Anyone who loves downhill will love this trail - absolute riding technique and a good bike are a must here!
Difficulty: medium
Length: approx. 20 km
Difference in altitude: 800 m
This route is perfect for mountain bikers who like to go on long tours. From Olympos, the trail leads through the Beydağları National Park with breathtaking views of the Turkish Riviera. The route alternates between forest paths and flowing trails – a perfect mix of sport and nature experience.
4. Çıralı Coastal Trail - MTB meets beach
Difficulty: Medium
Length: approx. 12 km
Elevation difference: 500 m
A unique combination of mountains and sea awaits you on this trail. The route starts in the forest and leads down to the coast, where you can bike along the beach. This tour is an unforgettable experience, especially in the morning when the sun rises over the Mediterranean.
Best time to travel for mountain bikers on Olympos
✔ Spring (March–May): Pleasant temperatures, green landscapes, perfect trail conditions.
✔ Autumn (September–November): Fewer tourists, mild temperatures, dry trails.
In summer it can get very hot at lower altitudes, so the high trails are more suitable. In winter the peak of Tahtalı is often covered in snow, but the lower areas are often still good for biking.
MTB tours and bike rental on site
There are several companies in the region that offer guided mountain bike tours and bike rental. We particularly recommend:
Olympos MTB Tours - Professional guides, various tours for every level.
Beydağları Adventure Club - Combines mountain biking with other outdoor activities such as hiking or climbing.
If you want to bring your own bike, you should choose a full-suspension mountain bike with at least 140 mm of travel, as many trails are technically demanding.
Tips for your MTB adventure in Olympos
✔ Bike check before the tour: Make sure your mountain bike is in top condition, especially brakes and suspension.
✔ Take enough water with you: There are few water sources in the region.
✔ Wear protective clothing: Helmet, gloves and protectors are mandatory on the more demanding trails.
✔ Use the cable car for uphill: The Tahtalı cable car takes you to over 2,000 m altitude - perfect for long downhill descents!
✔ Respect nature: The region is part of the national park, so no waste disposal in the wilderness.
Conclusion: Mountain biking on Olympos - an unforgettable experience
So if you are looking for a new mountain bike spot that combines nature, sport and adrenaline, then pack your bike and discover the trails of Olympos! 🚵♂️🔥
Have you ever been mountain biking in Olympos? Write us your experiences in the comments!
Please read as well:
Phaselis - another ancient Harbout Town next to Antalya
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