- Time of year: 3rd weekend in October
- Weather: Cool mornings and nights (5-10 C), warm and dry when the sun is up 28-33 C.
- Travel companion: My friend since 1990 – native from Türkiye
- Films/tv-series to watch before you go: The Water Diviner (2014) with Russel Crow.
- What to pack: Layered clothing. Mornings and nights are chilly whilst the sun takes day temperatures up to 25-30. Restaurants are casual, no need for dresses or suits. (hat and gloves are needed for the balloon tour)
- Where to stay: Fresco Cave Suites , Yunak House
- How to get around: Argeus
In 1990, I met my friend Ceylan during a Rotary-organized road trip across the USA. Thanks to Facebook, we reconnected digitally, and to celebrate our 50th birthdays, we decided to embark on a journey together to create new memories. Inspired by an article in National Geographic, we planned a three-day trip to Cappadocia—a fairytale-like destination in eastern Türkiye that offers both aerial adventures and subterranean explorations, where women in traditional attire and marathon runners share the same paths. One word summarizes this adventure better than anything else – spectacular.
Cappadocia’s unique topography and rich historical roots make it one of the world’s most captivating regions, blending natural wonders with layers of human history that span thousands of years. Once a haven for the most daring adventurers, this UNESCO World Heritage site is now being discovered by affluent travellers seeking authenticity, history, and breathtaking views.
From ballooning 800 meter above …
At the heart of Cappadocia lies its breathtaking, moon-like landscape, sculpted 70 million years ago by a volcanic eruption. The most enchanting way to appreciate these unique geological formations, particularly the “fairy chimneys,” is from a hot air balloon. From this vantage point, you can marvel at how the soft tuff rock, born from volcanic ash, has been meticulously shaped by wind and water into spires, deep valleys, and otherworldly rock formations. These natural wonders also house grottos that have served as homes, churches, and entire underground cities.
Not only does ballooning offer the best views, but it’s also a treat to watch the other balloons drift across the sky, piloted by skilled balloonists who can land with pinpoint precision. On the day we flew, we counted 96 hot air balloons in the air simultaneously. All balloon rides start early in the morning in the crisp, chilly air, allowing passengers to watch the sunrise from the balloon.
…To an Underground City 8 Stories Below
Hidden beneath the bustling market stalls selling souvenirs and carpets lies Kaymaklı, an ancient underground city dating back to the 7th century BC. As one of 36 such cities in Cappadocia, Kaymaklı is a subterranean marvel featuring intricate networks of living quarters, chapels, and daily life facilities, spanning up to eight levels deep. These underground cities provided refuge well into the 20th century during the Ottoman Empire’s persecutions. Rediscovered in 1963 when a local resident stumbled upon a concealed room, these hidden wonders are now open to the public, inviting you to explore their labyrinthine depths.
A word of caution: at 167 cm (5’6″), I found many of the passages low and narrow. Once back in the open air, refresh yourself with freshly squeezed pomegranate juice from a nearby stall before diving into carpet shopping.
Tokalı Church: A Feast for the Eyes
If your appetite for ancient history isn’t yet satisfied, make a stop at Tokalı Church, also known as the Buckle Church located in the Göreme National Park. Dating back to the 10th century, this church is the crown jewel of Cappadocia, renowned for its stunning, well-preserved blue frescoes. The frescoes are described in detail by Cappadociahistory.com.
Carpets Fit for Royalty
Today’s Cappadocia invites visitors to indulge in Turkish delicacies and craftsmanship, particularly carpets. In Ortahisar, we visited a store where, according to the owner, they had secured carpets for Buckingham Palace. I ended up purchasing a beautiful carpet for my office, which now lies under my feet as I write this.
Culinary Delights
Reconnecting with a friend I rarely see, we savored long breakfasts and dinners. Turkish breakfasts are a delight, offering a vast array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and bread. Typical Turkish dinners feature grilled meats with fresh vegetables—what’s not to love? Wine? Of course, the local wine named Turasan, that grows on volcanic terrain. We enjoyed the relaxed vibe at Ziggy Café, the stunning view and local wine at the wine bar Asim’in Yeri, and a leisurely lunch at The Old Greek House in the quaint town of Mustafapaşa, a village elected as UNTourism best tourism village
This trip was made October in 2021. We stayed at Fresco Cave Suites.
