The Turkish region of Cappadocia, a region of exceptional natural wonders, in particular characterized by fairy chimneys and a unique historical and cultural heritage, boasts one of the most dramatic sights in the world.
Visiting Cappadocia is such a change from visiting many other busy bustling sights all over Turkey. It is a great pleasure to wander in the vast open space filled with captivating natural attractions which have seen human history dated back in the Bronze Age.
While in Goreme Open Air Museum , the conical formations resulting from the volcanic eruptions that took place millions of years ago, just follow the path up to the top of one of the ridges where a spectacular view of the fairy chimneys awaits you. The natural cone formations contain caves and labyrinths. As early as the third century, those chimneys became a hiding place for early Christians who fled persecution from the Romans, and then later from raiding Muslims. In modern tourism, many caves have been turned into cave houses for tourist stays and the lunar-like setting of Goreme Valley has become popular for hot-air ballooning.
Many say the extremely unique landscape of Cappadocia resembles some scene in a Star Wars movie and yet you may be surprised to discover that no major commercial movies have been filmed there. It would be a perfect setting for movies such as Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter series.
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My favourite part of the entire turkey trip. It was BEAUTIFUL.
Beautiful rock formations created by the wind and rain.
It is well worth stopping for photographs and if you wish to wander around the many formations you are free to do so. Wear non slip shoes though!
Volcanic ash sculpted the landscape of Goreme National Park. Acres of fairy chimney, Egyptian obelisks, columns, and almost phallic looking towers of eroded structures dotted the landscape. It is a plateau of natural beauty with story-book quality of dwellings carved out in the 4th century – Christians fleeing Roman persecution.
The caves have churches, underground cities and homes with Byzantine…
I felt like a 10yr old exploring with no signs to say Not this way I did have to turn back unfortunately after a little while because stupidly I forgot to take water and it was quite hot.
like living in a salvador dali painting!! incredible rock formations caused by wind erosion and amazing to think that people lived in these dwellings all those many years ago.
We hiked the rose/red valley. It's a long hike outside of town, past the open air museum, after Kaya ballons to start the path, but once you get there it's great. It's a nice hike through gardens, with lots of rocks with pigeon holes and wonderful colors.
Though just a short walk out of town, besides the opportunity to stretch your legs, the museum offers little. The crowds are heavy and the churches small….making for a cramped tour. The one church with nice paintings costs extra. If you are looking for a more peaceful and much more beautiful artifacts then rent a car and spend a day…
Going up to the top of the castle at sunset is one of the highlights of any trip to Cappadocia! A "must see"!
the multiple levels were more than i had anticipated. more extensive than other cave areas in other countries.
Amazing, kind and friendly staff. Really cool hotel- never been a cave hotel before! A unique experience. Fast wireless. Beautiful view. In the city center, close to great restaurants and reasonably priced and local products shopping.