Cappadocia Hotels

Cracking Cappadocia

Cappadocia sits right in the middle of Turkey yet retains its own village rhythm. Far removed from the bawdiness of Istanbul and the overly glitzy Mediterranean resorts, this town’s organic charm is one you wouldn’t think existed anywhere you could still easily access Facebook. ... Read more »

And you’re going to want to be doing that, because Cappadocia’s mix of whirlwind atmosphere and ancient enchantment is exactly the sort that merits bragging about online. Hittite underground cities like Tatlarin and Ozkonak lie below, while above ground Goreme overflows with archaic tales. Start with the 11th century Dark Church for sacred art and a mystical vibe, and the Snake Church for a beautiful, peeling fresco dedicated to Saint Onuphrius. And what would a digital album of holiday snaps be without blurry evidence of overindulgence? Cappadocia’s atmospherically frenzied nightlife won’t leave you wanting.

CAPPADOCIA’S TOP 10

10. Ortahisar Castle The base of this monument features classic Cappadocian architecture.	5. Eski Gumus A stone-carved monastery filled with amazing 10th century artwork.
9. Avanos The place to hit if you want plenty of unique handmade pottery to take home to mum.	4. Tokali Church Ninth century frescos to die for, as well as a creepy crypt in the basement.
8. Uchisar Castle More an odd-looking rock formation than a castle, this is the highest point in Cappadocia.	3. Ihlara Valley The canyon was created with the help of a massive Mount Hasan Dag explosion and is simply lush.
7. Sinasos Come for an authentic vibe and to explore the secret alleyways of old Greek houses.	2. Goreme Open Air Museum Explore fairy chimneys and other ancient relics under the blistering Cappadocian sun.
6. Erciyes Dagi Mountain climbing for the daring. The path is brutal, but the reward is priceless.	1. Underground cities There are a stack of these around the region, with the best found in Kaymakli and Derinkuyu.

CAPPADOCIA EVENTS

The Cappadocia MTB Festival welcomes mountain bikers from all over the globe in June.

The Avanos International Tourism and Handicraft Festival celebrates the region’s folksy roots and all-round coolness. This August-to-September event is a great way to learn about Cappadocian history, as well as score some souvenirs and traditional eats.

September’s Goreme Food Festival is everything your local kebab shop isn’t.

Wine lovers find themselves in a frenzy during October’s Wine Festival. Come and celebrate the fertile soil by drinking, dancing and drinking some more!

December’s Mevlana Commemoration Festival celebrates the Muslim philosopher Mevlana. This dude was all about peace, goodness and charity.

WHEN TO GO

Cappadocia sees super-hot summers and freezing winters. Expect summer to reach 34°C (93°F) and winter -3°C (27°F).
If you’re after a white wonderland, January is the best bet for the snowy stuff.
Cappadocia doesn’t encounter too much rain, but December and May see a few sporadic showers.

GETTING AROUND

Buses are frequent in summer (except on Sundays), but less so at other times of year.
Considering the bus service slows to a trickle in winter, hiring a car is a good option at this time of year.
The landscape of Cappadocia is ideal for mountain biking. It’s not the most convenient way to get around the city, but good if you have time on your hands.

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