Cappadocia Holidays

The best times to enjoy walking holidays in Cappadocia are in the spring and autumn when its quieter and the temperatures are cooler. July and August can be extremely hot, and the summer months usually draw crowds of tourists. From April to early June, and September to October, are lovely times to visit as there is little rainfall and the temperatures are pleasant for walking. There is a good chance of snow during winter and although the scenery looks beautiful, it can become too cold for walking.

Rising up from the ground, the fairy chimneys are unusual rock formations that have created Cappadocia’s surreal landscape and earned the region its UNESCO World Heritage status. The rocks have formed over time from centuries of volcanic eruptions which produced thick ash that hardened throughout the years to become the soft rock known as tuff. Eroded by the natural elements, the hard rock inside was all that was left, thus forming the incredible fairy chimneys.

Blessed with diverse scenery of lunar-like landscapes, rock-hewn churches and underground cities, there are plenty of things to see in Cappadocia. Wander around the distinctive fairy chimneys that pierce the skyline of the Pasabaglari valley or venture beneath the earth at Derinkuyu to explore the subterranean dwellings which once housed approximately 20,000 inhabitants and their livestock. Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to monastic churches and houses, is also a must-visit site on a Cappadocia holiday.t

Throughout Cappadocia you’ll find wonderful trails that lead you among the wildlife and geological wonders. Rose Valley is particularly stunning, and it can be reached from the old village of Cavusin as you walk to the vantage point at Sunset Point for magnificent views. Although it is more challenging than other routes, the walk through White Valley is definitely worth the effort. Pass the white rock faces and follow the river to Love Valley where you’ll enjoy views of Cappadocia and the fairy chimneys. The Pigeon Trail, so named because of the dovecotes that are carved into the dwellings, is another worthy route that winds from Uchisar to Goreme.

Without a doubt, a hot air balloon ride over the Rose Valley and Goreme Open-Air Museum is one of the best experiences you can have in Cappadocia. To see the spectacular landscapes of fairy chimneys and rock-cut houses from above is an exhilarating adventure that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, walk through the Red Valley to catch the stunning sunset. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy a traditional Turkish performance by the Whirling Dervishes at Saruhan Caravanserai. A jeep safari of the Red Valley takes you on a thrilling ride off the beaten track along canyons and to remote corners.

Made up of beautiful valleys and ridges, Goreme’s landscapes are ideal for walking. Follow wonderful hiking trails that meander between gorges and plateaus where you can enjoy panoramic views of the region. The Zindanonu Valley is particularly scenic and offers spectacular views over Goreme and the open-air museum. Walking in the Goreme Valley introduces you to cave churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Exploring on foot gives you the opportunity to enter the rock-hewn dwellings, wander through the alleyways and truly immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Goreme.

Cappadocia has a diverse landscape, much of which is made up of mountainous terrain which is rocky and uneven in places. While it’s not essential to wear hiking boots we would advise it as there can be lengthy walking days and they offer the best protection for your feet. Depending on when you book your trip, you might want to take waterproof boots just so you’re prepared for any rainy weather.