Explore the Natural Beauty of Cappadocia with the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley

Are you planning a trip to Central Anatolia and want to explore the beautiful landscapes of Cappadocia? If the answer is yes, then taking part in the Cappadocia: Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley should be on your itinerary. This tour is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities that tourists love to take part in when visiting Cappadocia.

What is the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley?

The Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is a full-day trip that takes you to some of the most beautiful and scenic areas of Cappadocia. It covers a distance of approximately 100km, ensuring that you get a chance to witness all the natural beauty the region has to offer in just one day. The tour includes visiting the Ihlara Valley, the Selime Monastery, the Derinkuyu Underground City, and the Yaprakhisar viewpoint.

What Can You Expect From the Tour?

The tour starts early in the morning, and you will be picked up from your hotel at the designated time. The tour guide will be fluent in English and will brief you on the places you will visit on the trip. The first stop is at the Derinkuyu Underground City, where you will be amazed by the extensive network of tunnels and chambers that date back to the Byzantine era.

After spending some time at the underground city, the tour proceeds towards the Ihlara Valley. This beautiful valley is approximately 16km long, and it is adorned with a beautiful brook that runs through it. You will embark on a leisurely hike through the valley, enjoying the natural beauty and unique landscapes that surround you.

Next, the tour proceeds towards the Selime Monastery. This ancient monastery was built into the rocks of the Cappadocian hills and was used as a religious centre and a fortress. It is a spectacular site to see and one of the highlight of the tour.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Yaprakhisar viewpoint, where you can enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The tour is well organized, and you’ll have plenty of time at every spot to explore and take pictures.

What Should You Bring on the Tour?

To make the most of your experience on the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley, you should consider carrying comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking and hiking involved. The temperature in Cappadocia can be high, so carrying a hat, sunblock lotion, and water is essential. You can also carry a light jacket or shawl, as the temperature can drop significantly in the evenings.

How to Book the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley

To book the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley, you can visit the official website of the tour operator. You can also book the tour through your hotel or by visiting any of the authorized tour operators in Cappadocia. It is advisable to book the tour in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Is the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley Worth It?

Definitely! The Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss if you are visiting Cappadocia. The tour takes you through some of the most beautiful and scenic areas of the region, giving you a chance to witness the natural beauty of the area in a short time. The tour is well organized, and the tour guides are knowledgeable, ensuring that you have an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

The Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities to do while visiting Cappadocia. The tour covers all the beautiful landscapes and natural beauty of the region in just one day, making it ideal for tourists who don’t have much time to spend in the area. The tour is well organized, and the tour guides are knowledgeable, ensuring that you have an unforgettable experience. So, book the tour today and enjoy the natural beauty of Cappadocia to the fullest!

An Insider’s Guide to the Stunning City of Cappadocia

Cappadocia, nestled in the heart of Turkey, is a place of immense natural beauty, dotted with surreal landscapes, and ancient architecture. From the green valleys to the hot air balloon rides, Cappadocia is an unforgettable adventure waiting to be explored. Here is an insider’s guide to experiencing the exceptional charm of this city.

Local Attractions

Beyond the usual tourist spots, Cappadocia is teeming with hidden gems that only the locals know. The underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are two such attractions that take visitors centuries back in time. Go for a fascinating walk-in maze-like tunnels and chambers that locals withstood during past wars. Embellished with elaborate ventilation shafts, oil wells, and even stables for livestock, these underground cities make for a captivating and historical glimpse into the past.

Another must-see attraction is the Urgup Museum, which houses a collection of various artifacts, including pottery, carpets, and textiles from the Ottoman era. This quaint museum is a hidden gem for art and history buffs, and finds a distinct place in the city’s cultural landscape.

Dining Spots

Cappadocia’s unique food culture is an experience in itself. Tantalize your taste buds with delectable dishes like Testi Kebab, a slow-cooked meat stew, served in a clay pot sealed with bread. Savor the perfect blend of lamb or beef with spices, tomatoes, and onions, cooked thoroughly in the hot clay oven.

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, try the local pastry Gozleme, filled with cheese, potatoes, and spinach. This dish is a staple in the city and can be found at almost every street corner.

For a true insider experience, visit the Onyx workshop, where you can find unique crafts made of Onyx stone. The artistry and expertise of the craftspeople are on full display here, as they create beautiful trinkets and jewelry from the stone.

Cultural Experiences

Cappadocia is home to a unique blend of Turkish and Armenian cultures, which intermingle to create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. The city is renowned for its music and dance festivals, where locals don traditional costumes, play strings of Turkish instruments, and dance the night away.

If you’re in the city in September, be sure to catch the International Music and Whirling Dervishes Festival. It’s a spectacular and deeply spiritual experience that you don’t want to miss.

Local History

Cappadocia has a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years. One fascinating story is that of the ‘Fairy Chimneys,’ which are cone-shaped rock formations that are unique to Cappadocia. Legend has it that these chimneys were once beings who lived in the region, but when they refused to convert to Islam, they were turned to stone by a holy man.

Another intriguing story is that of the ancient church in the Goreme Open-Air Museum. This church was carved entirely out of a single rock and dates back to the 11th century. The intricate frescoes on the walls tell of biblical scenes and saints that have withstood the test of time.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

The best way to see Cappadocia is to take a hot air balloon ride. You will soar high above the city’s breathtaking landscape, taking in the awe-inspiring views of the rock formations and valleys.

For a more grounded experience, visit the Kocaturk Museum, which is home to more than 50 antique cars and motorcycles. It is a fascinating display of the evolution of the automotive industry in Turkey, and of the tastes of its rich and famous car collectors.

In conclusion, Cappadocia is a city unlike any other, with natural beauty, fascinating history, unique food, and cultural experiences waiting to be explored. It’s a place that you’ll fall in love with and keep coming back to. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the charm of Cappadocia, an unforgettable journey through time and place.