Walking & Cruising Lycian Shore Traveller Reviews

Our 14-day "Walking and Sailing the Lycian Way" tour was a vivid journey through ancient Lycia. My husband and I came away with a richer appreciation for both historic and modern Turkey. These tours attract glowing reviews and I understand why. The attention to detail in everything from site selection to culinary experiences (often combined as when our guides prepared a delicious picnic in a quiet site overlooking a the ruins of an Ancient Greek theater), to historical insights and the beautiful anchorages with spectacular swimming opportunities - all combine to create a unique and unforgettable experience. An eerie 1923 ghost town echos the (relatively) recent displacement and loss of a traumatic population exchange - while more ancient ruins whisper of long-ago human striving, creativity, prosperity as well as turmoil, conflict and catastrophic loss. The setting is stunning, the camaraderie with fellow travelers is engaging and fun. We are actively debating which tour to sign up for next!

Peter Sommer Travels crafts exceptional archaeological tours, blending meticulous itineraries with deep historical insight. Their expert guides, true scholars, bring ancient sites to life with researched narratives, navigating complex histories with clarity and passion. From obscure ruins to authentic cultural experiences, every detail—hikes, meals, and anchorages—is thoughtfully designed to immerse travelers in the region’s past and present. The company’s commitment to small, engaged groups fosters camaraderie, making each journey both educational and personal. Highly recommended for history enthusiasts seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures.

The coastal walks overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea were stunning. Walking into a deserted remote archeological site one often had the feeling we were the first modern visitors. Our guides enthusiastically delivered historical knowledge helped bring these ancient sites to life for us. Traditional Turkish meals in small villages and on the boat were excellent. Afternoon swims from our gullet after a day's walk were a highlight. Congenial dinners over wine finishing out each magical day. Overall, an amazing trip, exceeding our expectations. We plan to book again on another tour.

Well organized and planned, amazing guides. Overall exceeded our expectations.

We spent 14 days on a traditional Turkish gulet with 10 other guests, 2 guides and 4 crew. We cruised the Eastern Mediterranean around Gemiler Island, Sidyma, Patara, Pinara, Apollonia, Kekova Island and Ucagiz. We enjoyed wonderful foods prepared by the crew as well as in some local restaurants and with a local family. The tramping was on some rocky/uneven ground but was on the fabulous marked Lycian Way.

We were very pleased with the advance information provided by Peter Sommer Travels , including recommendations on the level of fitness required, items to pack and what to expect in terms of tramping conditions. Everything was accurate and helpful. The booking and payment instructions were easy and the guides were extremely knowledgable and good companions for the entire trip.

Combination of gullet sailing and hiking on the Western Lycian Way in Turkey. Well organised and excellent information about ancient cultures and Turkish history and culture.

Well organised and we felt well looked after. Hiking was strenuous at times and temperatures were hot, but activities were paced well.

Walking and cruising the Lycian Shore for two weeks with Peter Somers himself was the perfect holiday for us. Starting the day with a swim in the clear blue water , then an excellent Turkish breakfast on board our Gulet and on to explore some lesser known ancient ruins all the while being regaled by Peter as he brought the ancient past to life brilliantly. Often this was followed by a lunch hosted by a Turkish family - my personal favourite, a way to experience Turkish culture first hand. All this was followed by another swim or two and interesting chats with the other guests on board and a G & T while we watched the sun setting over the Mediterranean in a gorgeous pink display. Two weeks of bliss. We plan to return next year!

Peter Somers is engaging and knowledgeable

Well-chosen walks in a wonderful location. Great opportunities for swimming. Delicious food both on-board and in carefully chosen family restaurants. A relaxing and stimulating holiday. The gullet was beautiful, with a very professional and helpful crew.

Highly professional and well-organised From initial contact to post holiday follow up. Our guides were excellent, both in terms of subject knowledge and as entertaining and welcoming hosts

We cruised and walked Turkey’s Lycean Shore with Peter Sommer Travel. It was an extremely well organised tour, led by Peter Sommer whose knowledge of the region, its history and archaeology is absolutely superb. In addition, the gullet crew were great and the food was a real treat - including varied on-board fare and excellent lunches in small restaurants and families on the walks, very special.

Very well organised, fantastic subject-matter expertise, all-round great company. Everyone we met or interacted with was extremely helpful and professional.

An excellent combination of cruising in a gulet, walking, learning about ancient Lycia, led by two great guides who ensured we had a fabulous time. Wonderful food, local encounters and a comfortable gulet, run by friendly highly competent people

Peter Sommer tours do everything really well; a great itinerary, guides who are experts and very sociable , excellent communication and great organisation. Highly recommend

A well-balanced mix of cruising, walking, dining and water-related activities in a small group environment built around an escorted archaeological tour with expert guides who provide the context needed to bring ancient sites and people alive once again.

This was our 4th Peter Sommer holiday. We are repeat customers because Peter and his team provide a unique experience that is focussed on providing both a fun and intellectually inspirational holiday. Guides - both professional and local - are passionate about the places and experiences that they share with guests.

This was another stimulating holiday experience with Peter Sommer Travels, and this time with the man himself (a dynamo of energy and infectious enthusiasm). The gulet was comfortable and well run, with friendly, perfectly judged service and a flexible approach on the part of captain and crew. The days were well planned, with fascinating site visits and an insight into Turkish life today. Cem, the local expert, proudly showed off his country and its people at their best (and its wines too!) whilst ensuring that everything ran smoothly. Highlight for me was the long visit to Pinara, where the many trees added romance to an already stunning site. Or was it watching the sun rise everyday, with our morning coffee; or the end of day meals with our fellow travellers; or...?

Peter and Cem were very flexible on the couple of occasions when we decided not to walk, for example arranging transport to the cable car up Babadag (a wonderful trip in itself), or arranging an afternoon snooze in a hammock in the garden of a friendly taverna in the middle of nowhere. The whole tour was well organised, easy to book, and the office staff friendly and informative.