Efeler Yolu

About Efeler Yolu

Efeler Yolu (the Efeler Way) is a waymarked, multi-stage long-distance walking route of about 500 km through the mountains of inland İzmir. It starts in Kavaklıdere in the Bornova district, crosses Nif Dağı and the Bozdağlar range, loops through the high pastures of Kiraz, then follows the Aydın mountains to finish at Meryemana (the House of the Virgin Mary) near Selçuk. The route is a cultural trail built around the theme of the efe and zeybek tradition of the Aegean countryside. Its stated aims are to protect and promote the natural, historical, cultural and archaeological heritage of the villages and landscapes along the line, and to keep them sustainable. Stages The way is divided into 27 main stages plus one alternative stage. It passes through the districts of Bornova, Kemalpaşa, Bayındır, Ödemiş, Kiraz, Beydağ, Tire and Selçuk. Stage ends include Nazarköy, Yukarıkızılca, Bayramlı, Ovacık, Lübbey, Gölcük, Birgi, Bozdağ, Karakoyun Yaylası, Beyköy, Demirdere, Akçaşehir, Küçükkale and Şirince. The alternative stage runs from Gölcük direct to Bozdağ. Each stage is looked after by a volunteer. Recognition Efeler Yolu has been included in the Council of Europe Cultural Routes network, as reported by the Anadolu Agency. Practical notes Most stages cross mountain terrain away from towns, so walkers should plan water, accommodation and transport in advance and check current stage information and contacts on the official website ([email protected]) before setting out. Sections such as Gölcük, Birgi, Bozdağ and Şirince make good shorter day walks.