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.
Lovely hot weather, however the walk took us nearly 8 hours at a leisurely pace. In hindsight best to book an ATV
There are lots of holes that are carved in the caves. These holes were known to be homes for pigeons. Very nice site to see and there are hiking trails around the area.
The castle is nothing to write home about but it's a great introduction to the Goreme landscape from the top. Virtually all the well constructed wooden steps, & there are many, are on the outside. The last few metres from the top might present a slight challenge to the less able but still very worthwhile.
Cappadocia is amazing so the rose Valley is in keeping with the beauty of it all. We both hiked and rode horses there and while it is a little reminiscent of Sedona and some other places in the American West, it is far more unusual due to its history and amazing architecture
There is not much to see inside but there is amazing view at the top. We had museum pass card but they don't accept that. If you have one unfortunately you have to pay 5 TL.
This is a must visit if you are in goreme. It's amazing to see the art work in some of the caves. Definitely worth the wait to get in. Go early to avoid the rush.
Well maintained heritage. Must try the ice cream in front of the museum, and ask the seller to do some "ice cream acrobat"!
15tl for this entry.About 1hr is sufficient time. The first half there is no need to get a guide as you are only looking at what was once a city so it's mainly just hollowed out tunnels and rooms.Having said that, towards the end of visit you will go down some steep stairs.
One of the most beautifull valleys in Goreme. Easy to find, easy to go for yourself or with friend. Don't turn back, go until the end and find your way to climb 🙂 We founded.
Very fascinating place. Will keep you interested – both from a historic and geographic perspective. Interesting to see the ancient cave churches / dwellings of the monks and lives of early Christians