Turkey Day 1
We arrived at our Cappadocia cave hotel after 8pm, and as soon as we stepped out of the taxi, the mountain with its illuminated caves loomed before us, like something out of a fairy tale. The glowing caves against the darkening sky created a surreal, magical atmosphere, making it feel as though we had stepped into another world. The entire landscape exuded a mystical charm, with the soft light from the caves casting an otherworldly glow on the surrounding rock formations. It was a moment that truly felt like stepping into a dream. The interior of the cave hotel was equally enchanting, with walls carved from volcanic rock that gave the rooms a rustic yet cozy feel. You can book the same hotel here.
In the early morning, before sunrise, we woke up and hiked to the hotel’s viewing platform. As the first light of dawn touched the sky, a sea of colorful hot air balloons slowly rose from the valley below, soaring towards the sun. The sight was absolutely breathtaking, as the vibrant balloons illuminated the sky in a mesmerizing dance of colors. It was a moment that took our breath away.
Our guide promptly contacted us and arrived on time with a driver and a comfortable car. With their assistance, our first two days in Cappadocia were smooth and well-organized, allowing us to make the most of our time in the region. You can book the tour here.
Monk valley (Paşabağı Valley) was our first stop. As we walked through the valley, we were surrounded by the iconic fairy chimneys—towering, mushroom-shaped rock formations that seemed to rise from the earth. The valley’s unique landscape, with its otherworldly rock structures, made us feel like we had stepped into another time. We also learned that monks once lived here, carving homes and chapels into the rock, which added a fascinating historical layer to the experience.
Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley was our 2nd stop and it felt like stepping into a giant natural sculpture park. The valley is famous for its bizarre, animal-shaped rock formations that seem to come to life. As we walked along the trail, we couldn’t help but let our imaginations run wild—some rocks looked like camels, others like dolphins, and there was even one that resembled a snake. The valley’s surreal landscape made it feel like we were in a dream, with every twist and turn offering new, unexpected shapes in the rocks. It was a fun and whimsical stop, allowing us to connect with the natural artistry of Cappadocia in a completely unique way.
We visited Aldag Ceramic, and it was an amazing experience. The shop boasts an impressive collection of traditional Turkish ceramics and art pieces, ranging from beautifully hand-painted plates and bowls to intricate pottery. The super nice lady boss spoke fluent Chinese and even gave us a personal tour, taking us from the workshop to different showrooms. Unfortunately, we weren’t allowed to take pictures of the crafts, but they were so elegant and well-made that it didn’t take away from the experience. Whether you're looking for something affordable or a high-end collector's item, Aldag Ceramics offers pieces for every budget. The craftsmanship and vibrant colors of the ceramics truly reflect the rich cultural heritage of Turkey, making it the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or gift.
The Göreme Open-Air Museum in Cappadocia is one of the region's most iconic landmarks. As we explored this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we were amazed by the incredible rock-hewn churches, chapels, and monasteries carved into the soft volcanic rock. The frescoes inside these cave churches, some dating back to the 10th century, were beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into the area's rich Christian history. Unfortunately, we weren’t allowed to take pictures inside either, but the intricate designs, religious depictions, and peaceful atmosphere left a lasting impression. The museum is not only a fascinating historical site but also a testament to the ingenuity and devotion of the people who once lived here. It was a must-see stop in Cappadocia, showcasing the stunning blend of nature and history.
Our last stop was the panoramic view of Love Valley, and it was the perfect way to end our day. From the viewpoint, we could see the entire valley stretched out before us, with the unique rock formations towering in the distance. In Cappadocia, many shops offer beautiful blue eye jewelry, a symbol of protection in Turkish culture. We found a variety of pieces, from necklaces to bracelets, all featuring the iconic deep blue evil eye. On the way home, we tried a local Turkish restaurant. We were treated to a traditional ceramic breaking ceremony. The local custom involves breaking a ceramic plate to bring good luck and celebrate special occasions.