Cappadocia

‘‘…the most wonderful thing I have ever been permitted to rest my eyes upon in all my travels and among all the wonderfully interesting things it has been my good fortune to see in the land of wonders.’ John Henry Haynes, master of American Archaeological Photography, in 1884, of the landscape in Cappadocia.

Staying in Cappadocia provides one of the most unique holiday accommodation experiences imaginable. The famous misty hues and curious contours of the landscape each way you turn make this region a true natural wonder of the world. Boutique hotels combine the stone hewn cave dwellings of the Hittite, Roman and Byzantine periods with impeccable interior design and the luxurious comfort of contemporary tastes. Uniquely, the cave rooms are warmer in winter and cooler in summer; the Tufa stone they are made from keeps the temperature at a constant 23°C.

Urgup and Uchisar are our favored cave villages for overnight stays in the Cappadocia region, and offer a truly authentic experience. The extraordinary themed new boutique hotel Sacred House in Urgup is one of our favorites, along with Yunak Houses, and Argos Hotel in Uchisar. These 2 villages simply ooze history, and the intriguing and creative energy of those who lived here before is almost tangible. This originality thrives in the meticulous restoration, thoughtful design and warm hospitality of the accommodations we have selected.

 

Accommodation cappadocia - style

 

Staying in Cappadocia gives one of the most unique accommodation experiences imaginable. The famous misty hues and curious contours of the landscape each way you turn make this region a true natural wonder of the world. Boutique hotels combine the stone hewn cave dwellings of the Hittite, Roman and Byzantine periods with impeccable interior design and the luxurious comfort of contemporary tastes. Uniquely, the cave rooms are warmer in winter and cooler in summer; the Tufa stone they are made from keeps the temperature at a constant 23°C.

Urgup and Uchisar are our favored cave villages for overnight stays in the Cappadocia region, and offer a truly authentic experience. These 2 villages simply ooze history, and the intriguing and creative energy of those who lived here before is almost tangible. This originality thrives in the meticulous restoration, thoughtful design and warm hospitality of the accommodations we have selected.

Accommodation in Cappadocia offers:
  • A luxurious version of the ancient cave dwelling life
  • From intimate 5 room to 30 room boutique cave hotels
  • From modern elegance to warm & cosy inn style
  • Natural features such as chimneys & staircases, carved out passageways, closets & courtyards
  • A timeless and romantic fairy-tale experience
  • Critically acclaimed dining
  • Sun drenched terraces, some private, offering magical views day & night
  • Antique décor, furnishing & art works
  • Individually designed & themed rooms
 

historical sites and museums

 
GOREME OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

This incredible museum captures the essence of the monastic culture of Cappadocia with its rock-hewn architecture and early Christian fresco art. Each of the 11 refectory monasteries in this enormous complex has its own church dating variously from the 10th, 11th and 12th centuries. The Karanlik and Tokali churches have astoundingly beautiful frescoes, the colors of which still retain their original brilliance.

THE UNDERGROUND CITY OF KAYMAKLI

There are 36 troglodyte cave cities in Cappadocia and the largest is Kaymakli, a must-see for visitors, with 8 stories, nearly 20 miles of tunnels, and reaching 85 meters (90 yards) underground to the water table. Christian communities under threat in the 7th century dug these entire complexes underground, some like Kaymakli with populations of 20,000. 4 of Kaymakli’s floors are open for exploration to the public, with wineries, kitchens, churches and living areas - some of which are still used today.

PASABAG (MONKS VALLEY)

The Fairy Chimneys in Pasabag Valley are unique to the region with their conical upper sections that split into 2 and sometimes 3 heads. The hermits of Cappadocia hollowed out the soft volcanic tuff of these naturally formed earth pillars from top to bottom and lived in them isolated from the world. Of particular interest are the hermitage of St Simeon monks and a chapel dedicated to the saint built into a chimney 15 meters high.

SINASOS

Greek Orthodox families lived in Sinassos, City of the Sun, until Turkey’s war of Independence in the early 20th century. Now known as Mustafapasa, the village is a maze of deserted cave houses fronted by magnificent neo-classical facades that display fine examples of engraving and stonework. Visit the Churches of Aios Vasilos and Constantine-Helene nearby, as well as an Ottoman-era caravanserai exhibiting particularly fine stone masonry and woodwork.

Other highlights include:
  • UÇHISAR Situated at the highest point in Cappadocia this rock-hewn Byzantine fortress offers a magnificent panorama with Mount Erciyes in the distance.
  • ZELVE OPEN-AIR MUSEUM Spread over 3 valleys honeycombed with dwellings, this cave town is home to the oldest examples of Cappadocian architecture and religious paintings. The area is especially good for climbing and hiking.
  • SOGANLI VALLEY This atmospheric valley contains thousands of Roman and Byzantine tombs and mummy cases, and an extraordinary 50 churches and monasteries dating from 9th -13th centuries.
  • TASKINPASA Explore the Medrese, an Islamic theological school, and mosque built by the Karamanids, dating from the Seljuk period. The Medrese is home to impressive stone work and intricate floral and geometric design.
  • SOBESSOS ANCIENT CITY Discovered relatively recently, the ancient city of Sobessos dates back to the 4th century CE. The Roman Baths, mass graves, and mosaics are of particular interest.
  • AYVALI VILLAGE Also known as Aravan, the landscape of this village is stunning and the volcanic land very fertile. Relax here in picturesque surroundings and enjoy the famous wine from the village’s own vineyards.
 

Cuisine

 
CAPPADOCIA CUISINE

Culinary attitudes towards meat, dairy, vegetables and grains established in the Nomadic period of Turks still characterize the core of Turkish cuisine. As communities settled, Turkish food diversified according to region. Cappadocia and its fertile lands has made its distinctive mark on Turkish cuisine with an original use of delicate spices.

LOCAL MARKET & CAVE-HOME COOKING CLASS

This unique culinary experience takes you first to explore the local farmers’ market, a hive of activity with an array of seasonal, locally grown produce and intriguing ingredients. After collecting the ingredients for your class, your next stop is at a local cave home, a fairy chimney with rounded windows and kilim-strewn floors. With the guidance of your host, practice preparing some of the most delicious local dishes and specialties of the Cappadocian kitchen. Freshly baked bread, silky smooth eggplant stuffed with onions, tomatoes and tender minced meat, colorful couscous dishes, spiced bulgur wheat parcels, and a unique dessert made with grape syrup to end the meal– all make this experience a treat to remember.

CAPPADOCIA VINEYARDS AND WINERIES

Most of the now world-famous vineyards and wineries in Cappadocia have been family owned and run for many generations. We take you to visit one of the main wine producing families in Uchisar, whose award-winning business has become one of the top 5 wineries in Turkey. Perhaps most unique is their technique for storing the wine in holes carved into the Cappadocian rocks. Enjoy a look around the land, the warm hospitality of your hosts, and a wine tasting.

 

Shopping

 

Discover the intriguing adventure of shopping in Cappadocia with unique and intricate handmade pottery and ceramics, a vibrant range of textiles and traditional tribal rugs, and the famous handmade Soganli dolls. For those looking at handmade gold and silver jewelry, onyx is mined locally, while amethyst is brought from Manisa and Balıkesir, and the popular turquoise comes from Iran.

The ceramic workshops are usually run by local artisanal families who hand craft their products using locally sourced materials, in particular the red Avanos clay. Ancient techniques, from as far back as the Hittite era, are combined with modern styles to produce original and beautiful ceramics and pottery. In some workshops you can have your item custom designed, giving you a truly unique piece.

Delve through fine collections of naturally dyed traditional textiles in shops where piles of antique and new tribal rugs, kilims, floor cushions, tribal weavings, camel bags and tent decorations line the walls from floor to ceiling. Made with centuries old techniques, motifs and symbols, each piece tells a story from Anatolia and is a one-of-a-kind treasure to take home.

Originally designed by artisans in Soganli Village as children’s toys, the handmade dolls have become very popular with both visitors and collectors. Today, the craft provides the village with important industry and sustainability. Soganli dolls are now bought in bulk and distributed to shops throughout Turkey, but it’s a pleasure to choose your doll here at the place where it was made.

 

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

 
SUNRISE BALLOON RIDE OVER THE CAPPADOCIAN VALLEYS

Start the day at dawn with the extraordinary and serene experience of a hot air balloon ride. The balloon travels freely with the wind although the pilot has very accurate control of the height at which you cruise and ensures you get plenty of breathtaking panoramic views of the Cappadocian landscape. Interestingly, most passengers with any vertigo tendencies have no difficulties, and this unusual experience is not to be missed.

WHIRLING DERVISH PERFORMANCE AT THE SARIHAN CARAVANSERAI

This whirling dervish performance takes place at the restored Sarihan, an edifice constructed of smoothly hewn yellow, pink and beige stone, and the last Caravanserai built by the Seljuk sultans. Following the mystic poet Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, the dervishes dance the Sema, a hypnotic dance symbolizing the idea that revolution, or revolving, is the cycle of life and represents man’s endless journey to and from the earth. This experience evokes Turkish history’s deep mystic heritage and gives an insight into the centuries old nomadic lifestyle of the Silk Route.

CAPPADOCIA UNDERGROUND CERAMIC MUSEUM (Guray Museum)

In 2014, owner, Güray Tüysüz, whose family has been producing ceramics in Avanos for 5 generations, realized his 20 year-old dream. After meticulously collecting exhibits over the decades, and spending 5 years carving out the 1500m2 space for the museum, which lies 25 m underground, he opened the world’s 1st underground ceramics museum. Displays here include some of the earliest recovered ceramic artifacts, as well as more recent pieces by world famous Turkish ceramicists, some of whom are still alive. The museum also has a hall used for exhibition space, conferences and seminars, and a café and library.

 

special access

 
CAVE POTTERY VISIT

Avanos has been the center of terracotta earthenware craft since 3000 BCE. After 47 years and 5 generations of continuing the family tradition, potter Galip’s outlook is that, “Many things have started and many things have ended, some things have brought much and some things much less, but what’s never changed is my enthusiasm for the bit of clay next to my wheel”. This charismatic and unpretentious man, infectiously passionate about both pottery and good wine, guides you through a network of fantastic cave galleries where hundreds of his pieces are on display. Galip shares a lifetime of stories and a deep knowledge of Avanos with guests during this unusual and privileged experience.

PRIVATE HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE

Cappadocia's spectacular and extraordinary landscapes make this one of the best places in the world for hot air ballooning. Perfect conditions take your private balloon drifting between the magical fairy chimneys and over orchards, vineyards and ravines for breathtaking views of the region. On this luxury trip with comfortable seating, your group of up to 4 guests will fly exclusively with the pilot and Maître'd. The experience will be made extra special with Turkish sparkling wine, a breakfast hamper and orange juice served throughout your ride.

 

ADVENTURE

 
SUNSET HIKE THROUGH THE RED VALLEY

The Red Valley is one of the most dazzling spots in Cappadocia with its variety of multi-hued rock formations. During your hike, explore the valley’s hidden rock-cut churches and experience the incredible glow of the land at sunset.

HIKE THROUGH PIGEON VALLEY

Popular with hikers, this valley is home to literally thousands of ancient pigeon lofts carved into the soft tufa stone wherever space allows, including abandoned caves and the walls of collapsed churches. Their sheer number is astonishing.

HIKE THROUGH THE IHLARA VALLEY

Ihlara Valley is a 16 km long gorge cut deep into the volcanic rock through which the Melendiz stream flows. The whole canyon is honeycombed with rock-cut underground dwellings and churches from the Byzantine period.

NEW OFF-ROAD JEEP SAFARI ADVENTURE

This jeep safari takes in the vibrant and enchanting landscapes and cultural heritage of Kizil Cukur Valley, Ortahisar, and the Pancarli and Gomeda Valleys. Wind your way between tufa hills and fairy chimneys, discover the 8th century hermitage Uzumlu Kilise (Church of Grapes) and its rare frescoes, explore the rock-hollows and castle at Ortahisar, as well as some enticing antique shopping here. Carry on to Pancarlik Valley and the Pancarli (Beetroot) Church, before heading off-road into the Gomeda Valley, the most fertile in Cappadocia with abundant vegetation and its famous vineyards growing grapes unique to Gomeda.

PHOTO SAFARI

Cappadocia offers some of the most thrilling artistic opportunities in the world for photographers of all levels. A local guide and expert photographer leads this one-on-one tour, taking individuals to the best spots for capturing some truly great shots.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Turkey’s trail biking paradise, Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape offers challenging and rewarding slick rock, lush, green single tracks and caves, tunnels and canyons.

GOREME QUAD SAFARI

Fantastic fun for families with older kids (over 12 yrs) exploring off-the-beaten-track around Goreme on a sturdy ATV bike, this 2 hour escorted tour provides an exciting adventure over beautiful hills and dunes, and through the valleys and trails of the extraordinary Cappadocia landscape. The all-terrain vehicles are easy to use and fully automatic, so no experience is necessary for adults. The routes are carefully selected to be challenging, but not alarming by any means; your accompanying rider drives a separate vehicle and navigates the way. While the surroundings are completely awe-inspiring, this 2-hour adventure is all about the ride!

HORSEBACK RIDING

Traverse the magnificent valleys, meadows and mountains of Cappadocia, the Land of Beautiful Horses, on a beautiful native Anatolian or Arabic horse, with a real Turkish cowboy as your guide.

JET BOAT ON KIZILIRMAK RIVER

Awesome fun for families on Turkey’s longest river, experience the ultimate dose of adrenaline-packed adventure including extreme 360 degree Hamilton spins, high-speed drifting and other spine-tingling maneuvers. This 30-minute ride can be planned for any time of day, even at night under Cappadocia’s immense starlit sky. The region is fast becoming the adventure center of Turkey and Jet Boating is the new must-do activity for the whole family; one definitely not to be missed.

 

ARTS & CRAFTS

 
AVANOS AND CERAMICS

The town of Avanos is set on the banks of the Kizilirmak, Red River. The river provides the red clay for the pottery from which Avanos derives its livelihood and fame. Some of the techniques still used in the potteries here today date back to Hittite times. Explore some of the many family-run potteries in Avanos and watch a kick-wheel demonstration by a local potter before trying your own hand at the art.

 

CHRISTIANITY IN CAPPADOCIA

 

Cappadocia was a refuge for the first followers of Jesus from the soldiers of the Roman Empire as far back as 60 CE. St. Paul, on his expulsion from Jerusalem, also came to Cappadocia and established the first Christian colony in the region. In the 4th century under the monastic rule of the Three Fathers of Cappadocia (St. Basil the Great, St Gregory Nazianzen and Gregory of Nysse), Christians carved elaborate churches, monasteries and entire underground cities out of the soft volcanic rock, at times up to 85 meters (90 yards) down. More recently between the 7th and 13th centuries, the area was a safe haven for Christians under the threat of Muslim Arabs.

The hundreds of churches, monasteries and abodes in Cappadocia reflect both the sophistication of the first Christian settlers and the hardship they endured. For 300 years they hid underground striving to preserve their faith after St Paul. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the underground cities of these remote cave dwellers were discovered.

KARANLIK KILISE

The entrance to the Dark Church in Goreme starts from the north end through a winding tunnel that opens up into a barrel-vaulted narthex. Home to the most vibrant Byzantine frescoes in Cappadocia, depicting scenes from the New Testament, the colors have been beautifully preserved in the darkness of the edifice.

TOKALI CHURCH

The Church of the Buckle is a complex made up of 4 main chambers. The Old Church dates to the 10th century; its apse was destroyed when the New Church was added about 100 years later. Tokali contains important examples of narrative cycle frescoes with magnificent detail, complex symbolism, and stunning color, including an unusual indigo from pigments of the lapis lazuli stone.

DURMUS KADIR CHURCH

Durmus Kadir Church is located in one of Goreme’s vineyards and is named after the landowner. Dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries, the church is a large basilica type with its pulpit in the center, which is unusual for the region. It displays some of the most beautiful examples of rock-carved and embossed decoration.

KESLIK MONASTERY

The exceptional and rare wall paintings decorating this monastery date to the iconoclastic period (726 - 843 CE), during which such frescoes were forbidden by the Byzantine emperors.

SELIMIYE MONASTERY

Carved out of the rock and commanding a prominent vantage point over the start of the Ihlara Valley, the Selimiye monastery complex boasts numerous dormitories and kitchens, a seminary, chapels and a cathedral.

ESKIGÜMÜS ROCK CUT MONASTERY

Eskigümüş is well known for what is believed to be the only fresco depicting Theotokos smiling. The plain entrance to the church served so well as camouflage from Arab invaders that the site and its frescoes remained undiscovered until 1963 and are consequently very well preserved.

 

Gallery

 
Unique boutique cave hotel accommodation in Cappadocia
Cappadocia Town
Early Christian mosaics in the Karanlik church at Goreme Open Air museum
Cappadocia
Hot Air Balloon ride over the indescribable vistas of Cappadocia
Hot Air Balloon ride over the indescribable vistas of Cappadocia
Cappadocia - pigeon holes
Cappadocia - pigeon holes
Explore Cappadocia
Explore Cappadocia
cappadocia fairy chimney
cappadocia fairy chimney
cappadocia fairy chimney
cooking class
red valeey
cappadocia red valley
Early Christian mosaics in the Karanlik church at Goreme Open Air museum
Early Christian mosaics in the Karanlik church at Goreme Open Air museum
wine cellar
wine cellar
 
How we custom design tours

The destinations, sites and excursions outlined here are great inspiration for creating your custom designed itinerary. As well as being experts on Turkey, we understand people, and have been designing imaginative vacations here for over 25 years. The trips we offer cater to a range of budgets but maintain our high standards and consistently deliver a unique style and concept. For advice on creating a tailor made itinerary taking you exactly where you want to go and doing the things you most enjoy, contact us here.

Fairy Chimney hotel in Cappadocia
Cave houses and monasteries in Cappadocia
  • Cappadocia's original cave homes restored as some of the world's most unique boutique hotels
Insider experiences of Cappadocia
Local residents of Cappadocia today
  • A thriving community still lives in the small Cappadocian town of Goreme
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