I really enjoyed this area and all the walks we did, and the day off on the coast. Overall a very positive and friendly experience for my first group holiday on my own for 25years. The walks we did were essentially all in a semi-circle area around a valley, though each day had a slightly different character and feel to me. All were either started from the pension or a short drive away. We saw some goats and buzzards, though overall less wildlife than I am used to. All the paths were relatively quiet compared to many English popular areas, which I enjoyed. There was a drive down to a stream through narrow town streets that was fun and a chance to buy local olive oil (which did survive the flight back). I enjoyed getting up to see each pretty sunrise. Both towns we visited either side of Benidorm on our day off I also surprised myself by enjoying and are worth visiting.
Walking Holidays in Turkey
Walking Holidays in Turkey
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.
Christopher Gale Hike Spain's Sierra de Aitana
Diane Anderson Walking in AndaluciaAbsolutely wonderful. Michael (our group leader) was incredible. Best leader I’ve ever experienced. His knowledge and passion for everything elevated the trip experience through the roof.
Karen Sindelar Walking in AndaluciaThis was our first Exodus trip. We loved the group size (11) and its compatibility, mix of activities, and the incredible knowledge of the tour leader, Michael/Miguel. On most days we were out and about from 9 to 5. The terrain was lovely – hills and mountains surrounding rolling pastureland and olive farms. We saw and walked through so many white villages, and some of us took an extra 4 hour trip to Ronda, one of the most famous. The hiking was moderate. For me, the oldest by several years at age 75, it was at times tough because of the many ups and downs with the inclines occasionally too steep and long. The other 10 handled it with less trouble. Our tour leader, Michael/Miguel, knew everything about farming, geology, plants and animals and birds, and the history of the area. We all marveled at the extent of his knowledge! The farmhouse we stayed in was lovely with good food (the paella the last night was the best!), though the rooms lacked good lighting and the beds seemed a bit soft. This is a fun trip to go on for the activity, lovely scenery, and variety. We combined it with 2 days in Malaga and 4 in Granada and found every day rich and magical.
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