MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE IN TURKEY – CAPPADOCIA
Cappadocia – Magical Land of Rock Cities and Balloons
Cappadocia is one of the most unusual regions of Turkey, known for its lunar landscape, rock cities and famous balloon flights at sunrise. It is an ideal place for lovers of history, nature and photography. In the article, we will present a few significant places that are worth visiting and tell you which attractions are available.
How was Cappadocia created?
Cappadocia is a region with a unique landscape that was formed as a result of intense volcanic activity and erosion processes lasting millions of years. In prehistoric times, volcanic eruptions covered the area with a thick layer of volcanic ash, which eventually turned into soft tuff. For thousands of years, wind and water have carved unusual rock formations in this material, such as the famous “fairytale chimneys”. Thanks to the soft structure of tuff, people already in ancient times began to dig houses, temples and entire underground cities into the rocks, which can still be visited today.
Göreme – the heart of Cappadocia
Göreme is the most popular city in the region and a great base for exploring Cappadocia. It is from Göreme that most of the balloon launches take place, and the city has the most developed hotel and restaurant chain in Cappadocia. It is worth adding that many hotels in Göreme and the surrounding area are located in caves carved into the rock. They are extremely atmospheric and allow you to feel the unique character of the region. The downside of such places, however, is often high humidity, which can be problematic for some people.
It is home to the Göreme Open Air Museum, an open-air museum where you can see rock-carved churches with frescos dating back to the 9th century. Admission to the museum is ticketed. It is from Göreme that most of the balloon launches take place, and the city has the most developed hotel and restaurant chain in Cappadocia.
Ortahisar – a castle carved into the rock
Ortahisar is famous for its impressive rock-carved fortress, which was used as an observation point. Climbing to its top rewards with a beautiful view of the valleys of Cappadocia. Entrance to the castle is ticketed.
Ortahisar is not only a castle – it is also a town where you can find accommodation and visit local restaurants offering traditional Turkish dishes.
Red Valley – sunset among the red rocks
Red Valley is one of the most beautiful places for trekking in Cappadocia. The characteristic reddish rocks take on unusual colours at sunset, creating a fairytale scenery. Entrance to the valley is free, but it is worth hiring a guide if you want to explore hidden corners and underground chapels.
Devrent Valley – Valley of Imagination
Devrent Valley, also known as the Valley of Imagination, is one of the most remarkable places in Cappadocia. Unlike other valleys in the region, Devrent has never been inhabited or utilised for religious purposes. Its greatest asset is the rock formations, which take on fancy shapes resembling animals, figures and various objects.
The most recognisable rock is the camel-shaped one, but walking through the valley, you can see other interesting shapes that stimulate the imagination. It is an ideal place for a short hike and a photo shoot.
Love Valley – a valley of unusual rock formations
Love Valley is one of the most recognisable places in Cappadocia. Its name comes from the characteristic rock formations, which resemble phallic pillars, formed as a result of volcanic tuff erosion. This valley is a popular place for trekking and photo shoots, especially at sunrise and sunset. The entrance to the valley is free and the trail leads through scenic paths among impressive rocks.
Zelve Open Air Museum – a journey through time
Zelve is a former village carved into the rock, inhabited until the 1950s. Twentieth century. It now functions as an open-air museum where you can see old houses, churches and mosques. Admission to the museum is ticketed.
Balloon flight at sunrise
One of the biggest attractions of Cappadocia is balloon flights, which take place just before dawn. The sight of hundreds of balloons floating over the rocky valleys is an unforgettable experience. However, it must be remembered that this is an expensive attraction – prices start from 200-300 euros per person, depending on the season. In addition, balloon flights are subject to weather conditions, so in case of strong wind or precipitation they can be cancelled.
The balloon flight takes about an hour, and there can be up to a dozen or so people in the balloon baskets. The fewer people in the basket, the more intimate the flight is, but this is associated with a higher price. For those who do not decide to fly, watching balloons from ground level is an equally extraordinary experience. This is a unique treat for photographers who can capture the magical moment of balloons rising against the background of the rising sun.
Overnight in the wild in Cappadocia
For lovers of nature and independent travel, the good news is the fact that in Turkey it is allowed to spend the night in the wild in a tent or camper. Cappadocia offers many places ideal for such a night – from picturesque valleys to areas overlooking the balloons taking off. This is a great option for people who want to feel full freedom and closeness to nature.
Cappadocia on the screen
Cappadocia, with its fairytale landscape, was often used as a film set. Among others, scenes for such productions as “Star Wars” were shot here (although it was not an official set, many Cappadocia-inspired shots appeared in the film), “Ghost Rider 2” and numerous Turkish historical films and series. The landscape of Cappadocia gives films a unique, mystical atmosphere that attracts creators from all over the world.
Nazar boncuğu – Turkish eye protection
Nazar boncuğu, or the famous blue eye, is one of the most important symbols of Turkey. It is believed to protect against the “evil eye” – negative energy and jealousy of other people. It is an eye-shaped glass amulet that can be found almost everywhere – in jewellery, decorations, cars, and also on trees in Cappadocia.
We may not find here the typically mountain, winding trails that motorcyclists love, but Cappadocia has magic that will delight every fan of two wheels
Cappadocia is a place that offers countless attractions – from rock cities, to wonderful trekking routes, to spectacular balloon flights. It is worth planning your trip well to take advantage of as many attractions as possible.
If you dream of an extraordinary adventure in a fairytale setting, Cappadocia is the perfect destination!
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