The best road cycling routes in Turkey

Turkey offers a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 880 options available on komoot. These routes span diverse landscapes, from coastal roads to challenging mountain passes, catering to various skill levels.

Road cycling in Turkey caters to all abilities. You'll find over 160 easy routes, more than 410 moderate routes, and over 310 difficult routes. The terrain varies from gentle coastal rides to demanding mountain ascents in ranges like the Taurus Mountains.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 280 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the rugged Mediterranean coastline to the unique geological formations of Cappadocia, and the opportunity to combine rides with visits to ancient ruins.

Yes, many routes in Turkey are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your path. For example, the Dim Dam Bridge – Dim Dam loop from Alanya is a moderate 53.5 km ride, and the Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), Alanya – Alanya Cat Park loop from Alanya offers a moderate 48 km coastal experience.

Turkey's road cycling routes showcase remarkable natural diversity. You can ride along the stunning Mediterranean coastline, through the dramatic Taurus Mountains with their jagged rocks and canyons, or past the unique 'fairy chimney' rock formations in Cappadocia. Other routes might take you through serene lake districts or extensive forests.

Absolutely. Many routes allow you to combine cycling with visits to historical sites. The Lycian Coast, for instance, features ancient cities like Olympos, Limyra, Xanthos, Patara, and Myra. You can also find routes near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus. For specific mountain passes, consider highlights like Kirme Pass or Beyşehir Pass.

Turkey generally offers a mild climate, making it suitable for cycling for much of the year. The Mediterranean coast, particularly the Antalya-Alanya region, is noted for spring and winter cycling due to its warm weather. Spring and autumn typically provide the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the diverse landscapes.

While many routes involve significant elevation, there are easier options suitable for families. Look for the over 160 easy-rated routes on komoot. Coastal areas and flatter sections in regions like the Turkish Lake District can offer more relaxed rides. Always check the route's elevation profile and distance to ensure it matches your family's ability.

For longer rides, Turkey offers several options. The View of the Mountain Pass Road – View of the Mountains Near Kaş loop from Patlangıç Mah. is a difficult 82.9 km route with extensive climbs. Another challenging option is the Ortaköy Mosque – Kemerburgaz Aqueduct loop from Göktürk, covering over 101 km with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Turkey's diverse topography provides numerous routes with breathtaking panoramic views. The mountainous regions, such as the Taurus Mountains and areas near Kaş, offer spectacular vistas. For example, the View of the Mountains Near Kaş – Fethiye loop from Oludeniz provides extensive climbs and panoramic views.

Some regions are developing cyclist-friendly infrastructure. For instance, areas like Köyceğiz-Ortaca-Dalaman have eco-trails with international standard signage. The Antalya-Alanya region is also well-regarded for its cycling camps and supportive environment for cyclists, offering beautiful landscapes and warm weather.