From the sun-drenched Turquoise Coast of the south to the high mountain plateaus and vertiginous peaks of the east, walking holidays in Turkey offer a wealth of opportunities to discover the country’s richly diverse landscapes. Amidst the Mediterranean backdrop you’ll find ancient sites filled with crumbling ruins and monuments that tell of Turkey’s Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman past which has shaped the land and culture of the country.
The Goreme open-air museum is one of the most fascinating sites to explore on holidays to Turkey. As well as boasting dazzling views over the valley, it’s also home to a collection of cave churches decorated with ornate Byzantine frescoes that date back to 1000 – 1200 AD when they were used by orthodox monks.
Cappadocia is one of the most famous sites in Turkey and its distinctive landscape is punctuated by unusual rock formations that resemble a scene from a fairy tale. The unique pillars were formed from volcanic eruptions and have become recognised around the world, making it a popular destination for walking holidays in Turkey.
In between trekking among sun-kissed beaches, olive groves and ancient wonders, there’s plenty of time to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Turks are extremely welcoming and eager to show you their traditional way of life. And, of course, the cuisine is also one of the highlights on trips to Turkey. From authentic meze and spicy kebabs to sweet baklava, the vibrant Mediterranean flavours are irresistible.
Top 5 Places to Visit on Walking Holidays in Turkey
Cappadocia: Piercing the skyline with its fantastical rocky pillars, Cappadocia is a dreamlike vision that attract visitors from across the world. These curious, geological wonders rise up against a canvas of rugged hills in central Turkey and are known as the ‘fairy chimneys’ owing to their distinctive formations. One of the best ways to witness these natural wonders is by hot air balloon which gives you a bird’s-eye perspective of this almost unreal landscape. Back on the ground, you might also get to see the equally interesting wildlife such as the Eurasian fox or the hoopoe.
Kaymakli: Also located in Cappadocia is the underground city of Kaymakli. Built by Christians as far back as the 7th-century BCE, Kaymakli is a labyrinth of tunnels, caves and ancient homes and settlements where the local people would hide to avoid attack from the Byzantine invaders. It’s hard to imagine that inhabitants lived in this underground city and created everything from kitchens and living areas to stables and there’s even a church and graveyard. At one time a staggering number of people, around 3,500, lived inside Kaymakli City.
Goreme Open-Air Museum: Believed to be a Byzantine monastic settlement and a pilgrimage site in later years, Goreme Open-Air Museum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest of its kind. The museum is a fine example of Byzantine art and architecture and is home to an incredible complex of churches, chapels and monasteries cut into the volcanic rock. Inside each of the structures you’ll find beautiful frescoes that depict life in times gone by. The 11th-century Chapel of St Basil is particularly fascinating with its paintings of St Basil himself, a Maltese cross and St George slaying a dragon. The Dark Church is another highlight of Goreme Open-Air Museum and was so named owing to its lack of windows. Because of the lack of light in the church, its frescoes have hardly faded and still retain their vibrancy.
Akvadi Valley: Also known as White Valley, Akvadi is one of the most popular walking areas in Cappadocia and also one of the most diverse valleys. There are several walking trails that lead you through surreal landscapes made up of white rocks, orchards, vineyards and fairy chimneys. As you walk along the ancient river path, there’s a real sense of calm and you’ll be enthralled by the stunning scenery.
Arycanda: The ancient Lycian city of Arycanda lies on mountain terraces overlooking a pretty valley. It’s believed the city dates all the way back to Anatolian times and had several rulers throughout history, from the Persians and Alexander the Great to Seleucids. It is one of the oldest cities in Lycia and suffered from the great earthquake in 240 AD. Explore the Acropolis to see Hellenistic ruins, the Temple of Helios and Roman ruins. The well-preserved theatre is worth visiting to see its coloured marbles and the bust of Emperor Hadrian.
We had a wonderful holiday not least because of the tour leader Miguel aka Mike who was knowledgeable and passionate about the culture and natural environment of Andalucia and thoughtful and generous in the way he engaged with every member of the group. The farmhouse provided good food, always delivered with a smile. The views across the valley are stunning. I particularly enjoyed hearing and seeing the variety of bird life, expertly pointed out by Miguel and others in the group. The walks themselves were interesting and varied. The group also bonded well together with lots of stories and laughter.
The walks were interesting and varied. My personal highlights were a picnic lunch in the Grounds of an old monastery and the final walk of the week which not only was a beautiful trek up a local mountain but also allowed us to look out on the whole area we had walked around in the week giving a real sense of completion.
Our trip was wonderful! Miguel is a excellent guide with so much knowledge of the area including the history, plants & animals. Though a bit rustic, the Cortijo Rosario was lovely & very in keeping with the beautiful olive groves surrounding it- very homey / personal & perfect for me. The staff & food were fabulous as we’re all of the fabulous acquaintances made. Thanks to all for a great trip.
This was one of my favourite treks . We saw absolutely no other tourists on this trek . In the villages , the local people were so friendly . We managed to converse in pigeon french and were shown the local toad pond by some little boys in one village , had mint tea in a villagers home in another and were dressed as brides in another village . Everyone was so hospitable .
