Visiting Cappadocia
With a connecting flight from Istanbul, Cappadocia makes for a great stop on a multi-centre trip. I’d highly recommend linking it with a beach spot to unwind after the early starts Cappadocia will no-doubt bring you.
We arrived on an evening flight and were taken to our hotel, the stone building with the hint of incense is what I was expected when arriving in the lobby and it was straight to bed, ready for an early start.
It is recommended to get up around 30 minutes before sunrise, as this is when the sky will start to fill with the hot air balloons, this is the only time they will fly each day, as it’s when the temperatures are at their coolest and it’s safest to fly. Being October, it was around a 6:30am start when we head to the rooftop of the hotel. Most, if not all, hotels will feature a roof terrace and this is a great spot to capture the views of the balloons in action. Alternatively, Cappadocia is filled with valleys and their mountain tops are where many would head for the perfect photo opportunities.
Our first stop after a traditional Turkish breakfast, was the Gerome Open Air Museum where you will find the remains of many churches that were cut into the volcanic rock during the middle ages. The structures were impressive and worth a photo stop, particularly if the 10th century history is of interest.
The afternoon we chose one of the 3 main valleys to hike, choosing between Love Valley, Pigeon Valley and Rose Valley. We chose Love Valley and I really felt the love when I made it to the end! The approach to the start gave me memories of the Grand Canyon in the US, with its sweeping mountains covering the views, once we started the decent into the valley, I quickly realised this was not for the faint hearted. The smooth rock where small natural pathways had formed, were mixed with flat surfaces and those with loose stones and grit, making walking shoes essential for safe footing. The guide did mentioned during the spring and early summer, it can be a little unsafe to do these hikes due to the mud and wet surface. There was a mixture of concentration to stay on my feet and joy as we take in the incredible natural rock formations and views of the valley, but felt amazing to reach the end and know we had achieved something great. The afternoon was spent relaxing in a rooftop restaurant enjoying the views and a much deserved glass of local wine!
The next day was an early start for our hot air balloon flight, with a pick up of 6am, to arrive at the take-off spot ahead of sunrise. We arrive to see our balloon being inflated, deep inside one of the valleys. There are usually two flight options, the standard and the deluxe, the main difference being you are in the air for longer on the deluxe experience. As we take off and slowly glide through the valley the sun is starting to rise and we start to climb. The sky is filled with hot air balloons and the Cappadocia valleys and orange sky are the backdrop, the silence and stillness as you glide through the sky is so calming, there is a real feeling of peace as you take in this unforgettable view.
Back at the hotel for breakfast, after what has to be one of my best travel memories, we soon head out for the day. First stop is the Kaymakli Underground City, Cappadocia is famous for their many underground cities, going as deep as 85 metres underground! Well worth a visit, exploring through the tunnels of the city. Not so good if you struggle with small spaces as some crouching is involved, but we were able to explore enough within around 30 minutes and it was great to see something so unique.
The day continued with a visit to the iconic Fairy Chimneys, in Monks Valley. A view point of Uchisar Castle from the lovely Lavanta Panorama Café, a perfect spot for a photo opportunity. Finally, we found our mountain top ready for sunset and it did not disappoint, the perfect way to end an amazing day in Cappadocia.
The evening we found ourselves a gorgeous restaurant tucked away behind the main road, with stunning views of the town and the lights highlighting landmarks of this place full of character and unique charm.
Our final day was spent having a wonder through town at the local market and souvenir shops, before finding a café to kickback, take in the surroundings and reflect on the incredible few days. The town is a small enough to explore within a short time and doesn't involve much walking, just watch out for the uneven ground which adds to the charm of the Cappadocia experience.
My top tips to make the most of your Cappadocia experience: - A hot air balloon flight is a must do! - Be prepared to wake early and make the most of the iconic scenery. - Pack your walking shoes, regular trainers won't cut it for the valleys. - Take a power bank and make sure your phone is charged for photos, trust me you will want to take lots. BUT remember to put it down at times and be in the moment, some of these sights you will only see once in a lifetime. - Have small change for toilet breaks, some places will charge a small fee,
This was an unforgettable trip and the magic of the hot air balloons really does capture the soul!