The best road cycling routes in the Bey Mountains

The Bey Mountains offer a selection of 7 road cycling routes, catering to various preferences. Most routes are categorized as difficult, with one moderate option available.

Road cycling in the Bey Mountains features diverse terrain with significant elevation changes. While many segments are well-paved, some routes may include unpaved or challenging sections. The region is known for its dramatic topography, including prominent summits and coastal views.

Road cycling routes in the Bey Mountains often involve substantial elevation gains, with some rides exceeding 3,000 feet (over 900 meters) and even reaching up to 2,000 meters on longer, more challenging routes. For example, the Antalya Museum – Road to Çitdibi loop from Antalya features nearly 2,000 meters of climbing.

The Bey Mountains offer good cycling conditions for much of the year. However, the region experiences significant elevation changes, so spring and autumn generally provide the most comfortable temperatures for challenging climbs. Winter cycling might be possible at lower altitudes, but higher mountain passes could be affected by snow or colder conditions.

While most routes in the Bey Mountains are rated as difficult, there is one moderate option available: the Roadbike loop from Akdeniz Üniversitesi. This route covers 69.9 km with about 725 meters of elevation gain, making it a more accessible choice for those seeking a less strenuous ride.

The Bey Mountains are rich in natural beauty. You can encounter dramatic topography, coastal vistas, and unique geological formations. The Olympos Bey Mountains Coast National Park is home to diverse flora and fauna. Some routes, like the Antalya Museum – View of Karacaören Lake loop from Kepez, offer views of natural features such as Karacaören Lake.

Yes, the Bey Mountains region is steeped in history. Within the Olympos Bey Mountains Coast National Park, you can explore ancient cities like Olympos, Phaselis, and Idyros. Notable historical sites include the Odeon at Termessos and the Ancient Theatre of Termessos, offering glimpses into Lycian and Pamphylian civilizations.

Many road cycling routes in the Bey Mountains originate from areas around Antalya, such as Kepez or Konyaaltı, where parking facilities are generally available. Specific parking details for individual trailheads can often be found on the route pages or local maps.

Antalya serves as a primary gateway to the Bey Mountains. The city itself has well-maintained bike lanes, and public transport options within Antalya can help you reach starting points for routes heading into the mountains. For longer distances into the more remote parts of the Bey Mountains, private transport might be more convenient.

The Olympos Bey Mountains Coast National Park is a protected area. While general road cycling on public roads within or bordering the park typically does not require a special permit, it's always advisable to check the latest regulations, especially if planning to venture off main roads or into specific historical sites. For detailed information, you can visit the National Parks of Turkey website.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the Bey Mountains are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Fatih and the Antalya Archaeological Museum – Tarık loop from Antalya, providing convenient options for exploration.

The Bey Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic mountain terrain, challenging climbs, and the stunning coastal vistas that accompany many of the routes. The blend of natural beauty and historical sites also adds to the appeal.