TOUR OVERVIEW

We explore western Cappadocia including an underground city and famous Ihlara valley on a day trip.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Kaymaklı Underground City-Admire the subterranean settlements.

Ihlara Valley-Walk along the river,explore the hidden churches of the gorge.

Selime Monastery-See one of the largest monastic complex in Cappadocia.

TOUR ITINERARY

In the morning we start with a short photo break. The spot has a tremendous view overlooking Göreme town and formations with the volcano at the background.Then we drive to Kaymaklı Underground city. Underground cities are one the top highlights of Cappadocia.They were the living quarters and shelters of the locals during war times throughout the history.Although the first inhabitants are thought to be Hittites,most of them were reformed and enlarged by christian communities against Arab-Sasanids raids.With long passages,labyrinth tunnels,chapels,vineries and a big number of storages,they are more like subterranean villages with the capacity of thousands.Kaymaklı underground city is one of the largest in the region consisting of 4 floors open to public.It was listed as a World Heritage site in 1985.We continue on to Ihlara valley.The gorge streches 14 kms from Ihlara to Selime town.It was formed by Melendiz River which still flows helping cultivation of the area.The gorge also provided an ideal place for early christian monks.There are caves,churches and storages as well as safe hideaway tunnels on both side of the river.We walk around 3 kms along the river seeing rock-cut churches and fields en route.After having lunch in one of the authentic restourants by the river we drive to Selime Monastery.It is situated on a hill top overlooking Selime town.Monastery is a 9th century religious complex consisting of a cathedral,chapel,education hall,dormitory and kitchen.There are still some wall paintings can be seen in the churches.We ascend to the top fallowing a steep path and stroll around rock dwellings enjoying the scenery.Then we drive to see a crater lake callled 'NarlıGöl'.It is 65 mts deep warm spring lake surrounded by hills.It forms a heart shape when the level decrease in the summer.Depending on the season you have a chance to swim in the lake.Then return to the hotel.

TOUR INFORMATION

Includes

Lunch,air conditioned bus,English speaker lecienced tour guide,passenger insurance,enterance fees at the sites written in the itinerary.

Excludes

Drinks,gratitudes for tour staff,personal expenses.

Tour staff

Tour guide and driver.

Season

Four Seasons.