Day 5. Cappadocia Region
Overnight – Museum Hotel
Those who opt for the sunrise hot air balloon ride over the spectacular landscape will do so in the early morning before returning to your hotel for breakfast – you will have to select this activity at the time of tour reservation.
After breakfast you will proceed to the Goreme Open Air Museum, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Incredible stone carved churches, monasteries and chapels are found in this very scenic environment of fairy chimneys, and the colors and vividness of the beautiful frescoes have been amazingly well preserved over the last 1000 years or so. Although all of this site is extremely impressive, the Tokali Kilise (Dark Church) and its gorgeous 9th Century frescoes are a wonder that has to be experienced to be believed.
A very short drive will bring you to Pasabag, or the Valley of the Monks. The fairy chimneys of this area are even more fascinating as they are shaped like mushrooms, and the area is also surrounded by vineyards – Cappadocia produces some excellent wines that are available in the towns and your hotel. There are some good restaurants in this general area and you will break for lunch when you feel like it – your Guide will make recommendations based on your preferences.
Another short drive will bring you to Devrent Valle (Imagination Valley), the one valley in the region that has never been inhabited. Although all of Cappadocia is surreal and spectacular, Devrent has slightly different rock formations, not as tall and chimney like, and many have been shaped into animal silhouettes by nature over millions of years. Enjoy a gently hike through the valley for photo-op’s before heading to your next experience.
Optional Cooking Lesson and Dinner: This late afternoon you have the option (must be reserved at journey reservation) proceed to an extremely charming historic venue known as the Old Greek House. This 1887 mansion is very atmospheric and operates as a boutique hotel and restaurant. You will join the chefs for a cooking lesson of some local delicacies, after which you will enjoy a dinner that includes the fruits of your labor.
Those who opt for the sunrise hot air balloon ride over the spectacular landscape will do so in the early morning before returning to your hotel for breakfast – you will have to select this activity at the time of tour reservation.
After breakfast you will proceed to the Goreme Open Air Museum, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Incredible stone carved churches, monasteries and chapels are found in this very scenic environment of fairy chimneys, and the colors and vividness of the beautiful frescoes have been amazingly well preserved over the last 1000 years or so. Although all of this site is extremely impressive, the Tokali Kilise (Dark Church) and its gorgeous 9th Century frescoes are a wonder that has to be experienced to be believed.
A very short drive will bring you to Pasabag, or the Valley of the Monks. The fairy chimneys of this area are even more fascinating as they are shaped like mushrooms, and the area is also surrounded by vineyards – Cappadocia produces some excellent wines that are available in the towns and your hotel. There are some good restaurants in this general area and you will break for lunch when you feel like it – your Guide will make recommendations based on your preferences.
Another short drive will bring you to Devrent Valle (Imagination Valley), the one valley in the region that has never been inhabited. Although all of Cappadocia is surreal and spectacular, Devrent has slightly different rock formations, not as tall and chimney like, and many have been shaped into animal silhouettes by nature over millions of years. Enjoy a gently hike through the valley for photo-op’s before heading to your next experience.
Optional Cooking Lesson and Dinner: This late afternoon you have the option (must be reserved at journey reservation) proceed to an extremely charming historic venue known as the Old Greek House. This 1887 mansion is very atmospheric and operates as a boutique hotel and restaurant. You will join the chefs for a cooking lesson of some local delicacies, after which you will enjoy a dinner that includes the fruits of your labor.