• Cappadocia - Situated in the heart of a once-active volcanic zone in central Anatolia, Cappadocia is a region shaped by the forces of nature. Millions of years ago, the mountains Erciyes, Hasandağ, and Güllüdağ were active volcanoes, with eruptions continuing sporadically into the Neolithic era, as evidenced by ancient paintings.

The volcanic eruptions were so intense that lava layers reached up to 150 meters thick in some areas. Over millions of years, the landscape was sculpted by volcanoes, wind, rain, and ice, creating the Cappadocia we know today. As erosion took its course, basalt stones remained, forming conical structures, some towering up to 45 meters high.

Locals named these unique formations “fairy chimneys,” a term that has persisted through time. While nature crafted the initial landscape, it was the Anatolian people who carved the rock to create homes, churches, and over 250 underground cities throughout the centuries.

• Goreme - Known as Cappadocia during Roman times, Goreme is a rare region where human creations blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Rock dwellings date back to 4,000 B.C., and during the Byzantine era, chapels and monasteries were carved into the rock, adorned with ochre-toned frescoes that mirror the surrounding landscape. Today, troglodyte dwellings in rock cones and village houses made of volcanic tuff integrate harmoniously into the scenery. Goreme itself is nestled in a valley of cones and fairy chimneys, with cafes, restaurants, and guest houses carved into the rock. Shoppers will find an abundance of rugs and kilims. As you continue on the road out of Goreme, you enter one of the area’s most stunning valleys, where fantastical rock formations rise up at every turn, inviting you to marvel at their creation.
• Cappadocia Home Cooking - Nestled in the quaint traditional village of Ayvali, Cappadocia Home Cooking School and Restaurant is a hidden treasure. This family-run cooking school is housed in a lovingly restored traditional stone arch house. The owners invite you to feel at home, showcasing the renowned Turkish hospitality and traditions. They use only organic fruits, vegetables, and spices from their own garden. After preparing authentic Turkish dishes together, you can savor them in their family restaurant. The lovingly restored stone arch house serves as a perfect setting for this family-run Home Cooking School. Don’t be surprised if the recipe becomes your lunch or dinner. What better way to experience a home away from home in this sacred land? Join them!
• Mustafapaşa - The churches of St. Theodore and Pancarlık in Ürgüp are adorned with rich religious symbolism. The town of Sinasos (Mustafapaşa) is located six kilometers south of Ürgüp, known for its magnificent stone architecture. The chapel of St. Basil features motifs reflecting the iconoclastic system of thought. Sinasos is a must-visit old Greek town in the region.

• Private transportation
• Carbonated beverages
• On-board WiFi
• Bottled water
• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Surcharges on fuel
• Parking fees

• Gratuities

Explore the charming village of Ayvalı and experience the warmth of local hospitality by joining a villager in their home to assist in preparing a traditional Anatolian meal. Discover Turkish culinary customs while savoring regional delicacies such as “borek” pastries (crafted with cheese aged in an earthenware jug), classic bulgur soup, yaprak sarmasi (spiced rice wrapped in grape leaves), manti (Turkish ravioli), and dolaz (a delightful fried dessert drizzled with local honey). Engage with local men unwinding in a “kiraathane” (traditional coffee house) to gain insight into the lifestyle of the male villagers and enjoy wine from the Cappadocia region. After enjoying a robust cup of Turkish coffee, bid farewell to your gracious hosts and wander through Ayvalı’s quaint streets. During your walk, you might be invited to enjoy tea or homemade desserts from the kitchens of local villagers.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.