Fethiye’s turquoise waters and rugged cliffs became the starting point for the Babadağ Ultra Marathon on April 25, 2026, as registration opened and runners prepared for the two-day event spanning the Lycian Way.
Organizers expect record participation this year, with approximately 1,000 athletes set to compete across multiple distances, including roughly 100 international runners from over 10 countries, reinforcing the race’s growing global profile.
The course traces sections of the Lycian Way, one of the world’s premier long-distance walking routes, blending athletic challenge with historical immersion as runners pass ancient pathways intertwined with the region’s natural landscape.
Starting near 1,900 meters elevation on Babadağ Mountain, the routes descend toward Ölüdeniz, guiding participants through panoramic views where paragliders frequently fill the sky above the famed turquoise lagoon—a visual hallmark of the area’s identity as one of the world’s leading paragliding hubs.
Finishing at Ölüdeniz Beach offers swimmers a chance to cool off in the calm, clear waters, an moment organizers highlight as among the most memorable of the weekend.
In alignment with Turkey’s National Sovereignty and Children’s Day on April 23, a special children’s race will welcome 150 participants aged 7 to 10, embedding youth engagement into the festival’s broader sporting culture.
Beyond the marathon, Fethiye’s spring season continues to draw visitors seeking quieter alternatives to summer crowds, with activities ranging from hiking Saklıkent Canyon and kayaking through Kekova’s sunken ruins to boat tours of the Twelve Islands, all underscoring the region’s year-round appeal for nature, history, and adventure seekers.
Last year’s edition similarly attracted international attention, though organizers note this year’s surge in overseas entries marks a clear upward trajectory in the event’s global recognition.
Local tourism officials emphasize that spring remains the optimal window to explore Fethiye’s trails and cultural sites before peak summer heat, positioning the marathon not just as a race but as a gateway to broader seasonal engagement.
All race distances—56K, 30K, 26K Downhill, 15K, and 5K—remain open for registration via babadagultra.com, with bib numbers non-transferable and finishers receiving commemorative medals and technical shirts.
What makes the Babadağ Ultra Marathon different from other trail races in Turkey?
The race combines high-altitude mountain running with coastal finishes, paragliding views, and sections of the ancient Lycian Way, offering a rare blend of sport, history, and natural beauty unmatched in the country’s event calendar.
Are there any health requirements for participating in shorter races like the 5K?
According to Turkish Athletics Federation regulations for short-distance events, participants in races under marathon distance do not require a doctor’s certificate or licensed sports passport to compete.