Perhaps Turkey isn’t the first place on your list of dream vacation destinations. Honestly, what do we really know about the place? Is its history and culture rich like Europe’s? Are its beaches clean and waters blue like those in the Caribbean? Perhaps what makes Turkey so interesting is its mystery. Or perhaps that’s just a cop out. There’s got to be more to it than its “mystery”-something tangible. Some place we can explore and think, “Wow! This is Turkey.” That place is Cappadocia.
Resting comfortably in Central Anatolia is a region of Turkey that looks like something plucked out of The Flintstones. (And I mean that in a good way.) Those who didn’t think it was all that realistic for people to live in cave-like dwellings with modern conveniences like televisions and telephones would be surprised to learn about Cappadocia. The very real (but no less animated) region encompasses several towns and is characterized by its rugged, yet striking terrain. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions dramatically altered the land, forming caves and clefts from the earth, leaving the area appearing prehistoric, even well into the Internet age. Cappadocia is characterized by such formations, its “fairy chimneys” among them. These earthen cone structures populate the landscape and are often so elaborate that they contain caves and labyrinths that were once used by Christians as early as the third century as they fled from the Romans in fear of persecution, and then later by invading Muslims.
Upon settlement, the region’s soft volcanic rock was suitable for carving into homes, churches, and monasteries. What was good for early Anatolians is evidently acceptable for modern Turks and foreigners, as many have begun converting these cave dwellings into second homes. What may be surprising to some is that the same seemingly rough earth that was used to carve out houses is also rich with minerals, proving Cappadocia to be a rich agricultural region of Turkey. In fact, the area supports several vineyards and wineries.
Visitors find a wealth of leisure activities in Cappadocia, including the popular hot air balloon rides that set them floating above the almost mystical landscape. Another common activity is to visit the monasteries and painted cave churches, many of which are found in the town of Göreme, which was once an important Christian center during the early part of the Middle Ages. Travelers also enjoy hiking the valleys and exploring the underground settlements of Derinkuyu, Kaymakli, Ozluce, and Tatlarin.
But for some, the most memorable aspect of visiting Cappadocia is in their own hotel rooms-or rather, is the shape and character of the rooms, themselves-that is, as long as they’re staying in one of the area’s cave inns. Hoteliers easily recognized the appeal for tourists to live in caves, even if just for a few days. Many of the old carved-out homes have been restored and converted into inns. And for those wondering what makes living in a hollowed-out rock such a draw, take a look at Esbelli Evi, the first fine cave inn, which is located in the town of Ãœrgüp. The inn comprises seven guest rooms and several suites. Amenities include high-speed Internet and nearly 1,000 international TV channels. Rooms are adorned with Turkish crafts, including traditional carpets. And since it’s a cave, each room features its own unique character since no two caves are alike. Cappadocia features many hotels, ranging from the plain to the 5-star with swimming pools and other modern comforts. Pricing, of course, is commensurate with quality.
As is the case with many destinations, the spring is the best time to visit, as the weather is fair, the days are long, and the tourists haven’t begun their rush yet. The off-season in Cappadocia is the winter, when it’s cool and rainy, but the prices are lower and there are fewer tourists.
Before my research for this article, I wondered why anyone who wasn’t of Turkish decent would have any interest in visiting the country. After all, there are no Great Pyramids, no Roman Coliseums, and certainly no Eiffel Towers. It didn’t take long for me to believe that Turkey had something special to offer. It may be off the beaten path, but it’s worth exploring. It’s fascinating to think that this area, which has existed for millions of years is only recently being revealed to Westerners, and is now beginning to be regarded as a prime tourist destination, worthy of a top spot on your list.
