Efeler Yolu Culture Route

Efeler Yolu (Efeler Way) is a 500-kilometer, multi-stage and marked hiking/trekking route, beginning from Bornova district of Izmir, passing through Nif Mountain and the Bozdağ Mountains, then turning to the plateaus of Kiraz, continuing through the Aydin Mountains, and ending at Virgin Mary House in Ephesus-Selçuk. Efeler Yolu is a culture route based on the theme of efe/zeybek culture. In this context, Efeler Yolu covers a wide geography and connects important villages that have managed to carry their cultural richness to the present day through ancient roads using virgin plateaus and mountain passes. Efeler Yolu has been recognized as one of the Green Destinations “Top 100 Stories” in 2023 for its efforts towards responsible tourism and distinctive features.

Efeler Yolu is consisted of 28 stages, having 27 main stages and 1 alternative line. Stage lengths vary between 14-24 kilometres. The difficulty levels of the stages can generally be graded as medium-difficult and difficult. In this sense, Efeler Yolu is a real challenge in itself. The main stages of the Efeler Yolu are marked in red-white, and the alternative line is marked in red-yellow. In addition to standard signalling, red markings on the way provide access to mountain peaks, cultural heritage or important viewpoints on the routes. On the other hand, hikers/trekkers if they wish can use mobile applications, such as Wikiloc, FatMap, AllTrails, can follow the routes.

Purpose of Efeler Yolu

The aims of the Efeler Yolu Cultural Route can be summarized as:

• to ensure the protection, promotion and sustainability of the natural, historical, cultural and archaeological values ​​of the villages on the route and the route stages.
• to support the economy provided through agriculture and animal husbandry by creating new areas of economic activity.
• by revitalizing social life through tourism, ensuring that young people live happier in the lands where they were born and grown up, and preventing youth migration from villages.
• to contribute to the international recognition of efe/zeybek culture by establishing its connection with nature.

Vision of Efeler Yolu

To be a world-renowned and preferred cultural route.

Mission of Efeler Yolu

We connect mysterious efe harbours, untouched plateaus and villages with rich cultural values ​​through ancient road lines and legendary mountain passes and offer an unforgettable road experience.

Motto of Efeler Yolu

Efeler Way is a challenge!

Slogan of Efeler Yolu

This way is the Efeler Way…