Exploring Cappadocia: A Journey Through Time with Friends

Cappadocia's Enchanting Day

Today was a journey through the heart of Cappadocia, a land where nature and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. From exploring whimsical landscapes to standing atop ancient fortresses, every moment was a testament to the unique beauty of this region. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to immerse myself in the stories and sights of a place so different from my everyday life in Bielefeld.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Volcanic Cave. The restaurant was lovely and the food was delicious. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere that was the perfect way to start the day.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a breathtaking cave setting at Volcanic Cave in Göreme.

First on our itinerary was Paşabağları Müze ve Örenyeri, also known as the Monks Valley. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a surreal wonderland of fairy chimneys. These unique rock formations, sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion, stood tall and proud, each one a testament to nature’s artistry. I couldn't help but feel like I had stepped into a whimsical storybook. The valley was once a refuge for monks seeking solitude, and you could feel the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated the area. It was easy to see why they chose this spot for contemplation and reflection.


Explore the breathtaking fairy chimneys and rich history of Pasabaglari, a captivating landmark in Cappadocia, Turkey, perfect for nature and history lovers.

Wandering through Paşabağları, I was struck by the sheer variety of shapes and sizes of the fairy chimneys. Some resembled towering cones, while others looked like whimsical mushrooms. Many of them have been hollowed out to create homes or chapels. I was particularly fascinated by the story of St. Simeon, who lived atop one of these chimneys as a hermit. I couldn't imagine the dedication it must have taken to live in such isolation, seeking spiritual enlightenment amidst the Cappadocian landscape.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

After immersing ourselves in the enchanting landscape of Paşabağları, we decided to do some shopping at Arts & Crafts Cappadocia. The shop was full of beautiful pottery, carpets, and other local crafts. It was a great place to find souvenirs and gifts for our loved ones back home. The shopkeeper was friendly and helpful, sharing stories about the artisans and the history behind each piece. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, a reminder of the artistry and skill of the Cappadocian people.


Explore unique collectibles and handcrafted treasures at Arts & Crafts Cappadocia, a creative gem in the heart of Göreme, Turkey.

For lunch, we headed to Sedef Restaurant. My friend had heard great things about their testi kebab, a traditional Turkish dish cooked in a sealed clay pot. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the flavors of Cappadocia. The aroma of spices and grilling meats filled the air, whetting our appetites. The testi kebab was a true culinary experience. The waiter cracked open the clay pot tableside, releasing a fragrant steam that carried the scent of lamb, vegetables, and herbs. The meat was tender and succulent, infused with the flavors of the clay pot. It was a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Sedef in Göreme—where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our final destination of the day: Uçhisar Castle. Perched atop the highest point in Cappadocia, this ancient rock fortress offered panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As we approached, the castle loomed large, a testament to the region's rich history and strategic importance. The climb to the top was a bit strenuous, but the views were more than worth the effort. From the summit, we could see the entire Cappadocian landscape stretching out before us, a tapestry of valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings. The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the land, creating a truly magical scene.


Explore Uchisar Castle, the stunning fortress of Cappadocia, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and unique cave dwellings amidst a surreal landscape.

Uçhisar Castle is not a castle in the traditional sense, with knights and drawbridges, but rather a stunning example of ancient architecture, carved out of natural rock formations by the early inhabitants. Exploring Uçhisar Castle provides visitors with a unique journey through Turkey's rich history, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Cappadocia's otherworldly landscape, marked by fairy chimneys and ancient cave dwellings.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, we made our way down from Uçhisar Castle. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of woodsmoke from nearby villages. For dinner we went to Seki Restaurant & Lounge. The restaurant was lovely and the food was delicious. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration. We sat on the terrace, savoring the last moments of the day, and talked about all the things that we had seen and done. We were so grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Cappadocia.


Discover exquisite Turkish cuisine at Seki Restaurant & Lounge with breathtaking views in Uçhisar, Cappadocia.

I couldn't help but reflect on the day's adventures and the unique beauty of Cappadocia. It's a place that seems to exist outside of time, where ancient history and natural wonders blend seamlessly. As a cultural mediator, I'm always fascinated by the ways in which people have adapted to their environment and created unique traditions. Cappadocia is a prime example of this, where the landscape itself has shaped the culture and way of life.

Tonight, as I sit here writing, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences I've had today. Cappadocia has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. It's a place that I know I'll return to someday, to explore its hidden corners and immerse myself in its rich culture.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Özkonak Underground City and Imagination Valley. I'm excited to discover more of Cappadocia's hidden gems and learn about the ingenuity of the people who once called this region home. But for now, I'll rest and dream of fairy chimneys and ancient heights.

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention! There's a techno and chill event happening tonight in Cappadocia, Celestial Anatolia x Techno and Chill : Moblack in Cappadocia, at Perili Ozanlar Vadisi. It sounds like it could be fun, but I think I'll pass. I need to get a good night's sleep.

I'm glad I brought my comfortable walking shoes, camera, travel guidebook, reusable water bottle, and sunscreen. However, I did forget my power adapter and sunglasses. I need to remember to pack those next time.

Until tomorrow,
Eman