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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The landscape apart the trek was really great and visit the cave church on top of the hill….To find a small cafe on top of the hill with a single guy running the show was amazing.
The Dark Church. Do not miss it. So much else in the area is vandalized.
the sites and surrounds of this park are worth seeing. We got some very good photos of the structures and valleys. We walked everywhere, good but tiring, would go again
Great, but don't go during peak hour like we did. Not fun to compete with so many other tourists to enter tiny caves.
The trail is 14 km long and the popular way to is walk 4 km till you reach Belisirma – a restaurant. It's beautiful with the Melendez river flowing next to the trail and mountains beyond. The trail is dotted with beautiful flora. Not much of a climb compared to the other attractions (unlike the Sumeli monastery).
Those who like history must visit this National Park. A bit of walking but worth it. Wear a hat or carry umbrell during summer and wear thick clothing duirng cold season. We were there in May. So not so bad
beautiful, quiet, fascinating natural geological formations dotted with dwellings where the early Christian hermits hit from the world
Be careful, a friend got bitten by a dog here and had to get a rabies shot! I was with her and it was very scary.
Interesting underground city along with a bit of history attached to them. Also the above-ground cave dwellings were fun.
It's hard to believe that people once lived in these caves and underground caverns. Be prepared for a lot of walking and steps, some of it in very cramped spaces, but it's worth the effort.