Explore the 'Efeler Trail' in Izmir

(Patria) - A 'sustainable hiking route' leads us along the Aegean coast of Turkey – the Efeler Trail (Efeler Yolu), which was declared one of the "100 best green destination stories" by Green Destinations last year. As the newest route connecting history and natural beauty, this 500-kilometer trail begins in Bornova, Izmir, and leads all the way to the House of the Virgin Mary.

The trail connects villages and plateaus via old roads, offering an insight into the rich Efe culture of the area. With its 28 stages, 27 main routes, and one alternative route, it presents a true challenge for all nature and adventure lovers.

Villages Preserving Rich Heritage

The Efes were revered leaders of Turkish renegade soldiers, known as 'Zeybeks', and hold a special place in Turkish culture. Valued for their bravery and leadership, Efes are still respected today, and Zeybek dances are performed at special ceremonies. This area, rich in the cultural heritage of various civilizations, from the Hittites and Phrygians to the Romans and Ottomans, further attracts visitors. The legacy of the Efes, who played a crucial role in the defense of Turkey during the National Struggle, is woven into the historical tapestry of this region, making it appealing to all who wish to explore Turkey's rich and diverse past.

The Efeler Trail starts in the village of Kavaklıdere in the Bornova district and leads to the Kiraz plateau via the Nif and Bozdağlar mountains. The route ends in Ephesus-Selçuk, crossing the Aydın mountain range all the way to the House of the Virgin Mary on Bülbüldağı.

It can be completed on foot in approximately one month, and it is designed so that hikers can reach a village each day. The route passes through 28 villages, including many small settlements that have preserved their ancient values. In most villages, including Nazarköy, Bozdağ, Birgi, Beyköy, and Şirince, wooden doors at the entrances and exits provide useful information for hikers.



Each village on this trail offers unique experiences catering to different interests. Nazarköy, one of the first places on this route, is known for its glass beads against the evil eye (nazar boncukları), used to ward off negative energy. Birgi, which was included among the 'Best Tourism Villages' by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2022, is an outstanding open-air museum with over 200 registered monuments. Some of the significant structures in this village include: the Great Mosque (Aydınoğlu Mehmet Bey Mosque) from the period of the Anatolian beyliks, the Çakırağa mansion, the tomb of Imam Birgivi, the Sandıkoğlu mansion, the Dervişağa Mosque, and the tomb of Sultan Şah.

Şirince, the penultimate destination on the Efeler Trail, is an ideal place to visit year-round, but it is especially beautiful during harvest season. At this time, bells ring to call for the harvest, marking the beginning of a vibrant period in the olive groves and wineries. Visit Şirince to witness the traditional production processes of high-quality olive oils and wines from local vineyards, and to taste the famous village fruit wines.

Efeler Passport

Another pleasant surprise on the Efeler Trail is the 'Efeler Trail Passport', which hikers can obtain through the website www.efeleryolu.com or at friendly establishments along the trail.

Participants can collect stamps featuring a distinctive local symbol that reflects the identity of each village they visit. Each handmade passport has a unique serial number. Bonus: hikers who collect all the stamps and confirm the completion of the route via route-sharing applications on the last page of the passport receive a special golden stamp of the Efeler Trail.