Following the route of the Apostle Paul through the Taurus Mountains and Anatolian plateau, this long-distance trail passes through spectacular mountain scenery, ancient ruins, and remote villages. Named after St. Paul's missionary journeys through the region.
The St. Paul Trail is a 500-kilometre long-distance walking route in southern Turkey following the approximate missionary path of the Apostle Paul from the ancient city of Perge, near Antalya on the Mediterranean coast, north through the Taurus Mountains to Yalvaç (ancient Antioch-in-Pisidia) on the Anatolian plateau. Established in 2004 with support from the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry, the trail traverses dramatic mountain scenery, remote highland villages, sections of Roman road, and several ancient cities. The complete route requires approximately 30 days; sections of one to five days are accessible as standalone walks. The southern trailhead at Perge is approximately 18 km east of Antalya and reached by dolmuş from Antalya's main bus station (otogar). The northern terminus at Yalvaç is accessible from Konya or Isparta by regional bus. No permit is required to walk the trail; entry fees of approximately ₺200–250 apply at individual archaeological sites such as Perge and Antioch-in-Pisidia. Limited parking exists at village trailheads. Terrain varies from the Mediterranean coastal plain through the rugged Taurus Mountains, where the trail reaches elevations above 2,300 m on exposed highland passes, then descends to the Anatolian plateau around Eğirdir Lake. The surface alternates between remnant Roman road cobblestones, forest track, open scree, and agricultural field paths. Technical difficulty is moderate on most sections, but high mountain passes north of Bucak and the descent toward Eğirdir involve sustained climbs above the treeline with loose rock underfoot; trekking poles and sturdy footwear are advisable. Cumulative elevation gain on the full route exceeds 20,000 m. Key landmarks include the Roman ruins of Perge and Aspendos near the trailhead, Köprüçay river crossings in the Taurus foothills, sweeping views over Eğirdir Lake at roughly the halfway point, and the ruins of Antioch-in-Pisidia at the northern end. Traditional Yörük nomadic encampments are sometimes visible in highland meadows during summer. Accommodation along the route is sparse compared to the Lycian Way; advance planning of overnight stages is essential.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Perge (Antalya) to Yalvaç, Central Turkey
- Best season
- May to June and September to October
Highlights
- Taurus Mountain passes
- Roman road sections
- Ancient Pisidia cities
- Traditional Yoruk nomad culture
- Egirdir Lake views
Tips for visiting
- Walk the northern Taurus sections in May–June before summer heat arrives; high passes above 2,000 m can retain snow into late April.
- Carry detailed offline maps or the official St. Paul Trail GPX file — waymarking is less consistent than on the Lycian Way.
- Village pensions and homestays are sparse on some sections; confirm availability by phone before departing each stage.
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are necessary on loose rocky terrain across the mountain passes.
- Eğirdir Lake, roughly halfway along the route, makes an excellent rest base with guesthouses and restaurants along the waterfront.
- Entry fees apply at Perge, Aspendos, and Antioch-in-Pisidia; budget approximately ₺200–300 per site.
When to visit
May to June and late September to October are the most comfortable months; high Taurus passes can hold snow until late April and summer heat on lower sections regularly exceeds 35°C.
Accessibility
The St. Paul Trail is not wheelchair-accessible or suitable for strollers. The route involves steep mountain passes, uneven Roman road cobblestones, and sections of exposed highland terrain with no adapted infrastructure throughout.
Frequently asked questions
Who established the St. Paul Trail?
The trail was researched and developed by Kate Clow, who also created the Lycian Way, in collaboration with the Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry. Waymarking relies on local volunteers and periodic official upkeep.
How do I reach the southern trailhead at Perge?
Perge is approximately 18 km east of Antalya city centre. Dolmuş services run regularly from Antalya's main bus station (otogar) to the Perge junction, from where the ruins and trailhead are a short walk.
Is the St. Paul Trail suitable for solo walkers?
Yes, though planning is more demanding than on the Lycian Way. Some sections pass through very remote terrain with sparse accommodation; solo walkers should carry emergency contact details and inform guesthouse owners of their planned route.
What is the maximum elevation on the trail?
The trail crests above 2,300 m in the Taurus Mountains north of Bucak. These high passes can carry snow into April and early May; checking local conditions before attempting them outside the main season is advisable.
Are there resupply points along the route?
Small village shops provide basic provisions (bread, tinned food, water) roughly every one to two days. Larger towns such as Eğirdir offer supermarkets and pharmacies for comprehensive resupply.