Exploring Cappadocia: A Journey Through Time with Friends

Chasing Sunsets and Valley Views

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of Cappadocia. After experiencing the unique landscapes from above with the hot air balloons, I was eager to explore the valleys on foot. It promised to be a day filled with breathtaking views, a bit of adventure, and of course, delicious Turkish food.

We started our day with breakfast at Dream Spot Cappadocia Restaurant in Uçhisar. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a magical view of the Uçhisar Castle. I opted for a traditional Turkish breakfast spread, complete with fresh bread, olives, cheeses, and a selection of jams. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of hiking. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. I remember thinking how much Nadia would have loved the lokum they served – I’ll have to bring some back for her.


Experience the flavors of Cappadocia at Dream Spot Restaurant – where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking views.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Kızılcukur Valley, also known as Red Valley. We decided to start our hike a couple of hours before sunset, hoping to catch the valley in its full fiery glory. The trails were easy to follow, and the landscape was simply stunning. The unique rock formations, carved by centuries of wind and water erosion, created a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The red and pink hues of the rocks intensified as the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the entire valley. It was truly a sight to behold. I made sure to take tons of photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, but as always, the photos just don't do it justice.


Explore Kizilcukur Valley, a breathtaking natural wonder in Cappadocia, known for its stunning rock formations and picturesque sunsets.

Sometimes, the most beautiful moments are the ones you stumble upon when you least expect them.

After spending a good amount of time soaking in the views at Kızılcukur Valley, we moved on to Rose Valley. The two valleys are connected, and the hike between them was relatively easy. Rose Valley, with its own unique charm, was equally captivating. The rock formations here were a bit different, with more rounded shapes and a softer, pinkish hue. We explored some of the hidden cave churches in the valley, marveling at the ancient frescoes that adorned their walls. It was fascinating to imagine the lives of the people who once lived and worshiped in these caves. It made me think about my own journey, from El Fashn to Germany, and how people throughout history have sought refuge and community in different ways.


Explore the stunning landscapes and fairy chimneys of Rose Valley, Cappadocia's enchanting nature preserve, perfect for hiking and photography.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but reflect on how lucky I am to be sharing this experience with my friends. TravelWith, we laughed, we shared stories, and we supported each other along the way. It reminded me of the importance of human connection and how travel can strengthen the bonds of friendship. I missed Lukas and Nadia, of course, but I knew they were with me in spirit. I even picked up a few small trinkets along the way, little reminders of Cappadocia to bring back home.

By the time we finished our hike, we were all tired and hungry. We made our way to Gurme Kebab Restaurant for a late lunch. This place was recommended to us by a local, and it didn't disappoint. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was absolutely delicious. We ordered a variety of kebabs, each one bursting with flavor. The Testi Kebab, cooked in a clay pot, was a particular highlight. The waiter even cracked the pot open at our table, adding a touch of theatrics to the meal. It was so much fun, and the food was incredible. I think Lukas would have especially enjoyed the Adana Kebab, he loves spicy food.


Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Gurme Kebab Restaurant in Göreme – where every bite tells a story.

For dinner, we decided to try Dibek, a restaurant known for its traditional Turkish cuisine and its unique setting in a 475-year-old building. The restaurant was cozy and atmospheric, with traditional Turkish-style seating on the floor. We ordered the Testi Kebab again, as we had enjoyed it so much at lunch. This time, it was cooked in a sealed clay pot for four hours, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. It was served with rice and a variety of vegetables, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. We also tried the manti, small dumplings filled with meat and served with yogurt and a garlic sauce. It was a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for a cool evening. I made a mental note to try making manti when I get back home – it would be a fun way to share a taste of Cappadocia with my family.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Dibek in Göreme—where tradition meets flavor in a cozy setting.

To end our day, we headed to Panoramic Rooftop BAR for drinks and more stunning views. The bar offered a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and beers, and the rooftop setting provided a perfect vantage point for watching the sunset over Cappadocia. We sipped our drinks, chatted, and enjoyed the cool evening air. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. I took a moment to appreciate the beauty around me and to feel grateful for this incredible experience. As I looked out over the landscape, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment. Cappadocia had truly captured my heart.


Unwind with stunning views and delightful drinks at the Panoramic Rooftop Bar in Göreme, Cappadocia's breathtaking gem.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Paşabağları Müze ve Örenyeri (also known as Monk's Valley) and Uçhisar Castle. I’m excited to explore more of Cappadocia’s unique landscapes and historical sites. I’m also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at Arts & Crafts Cappadocia – I need to find something special for Nadia. And of course, we’ll be trying out a new restaurant for dinner – Seki Restaurant & Lounge. I’ve heard great things about their food and their ambiance, so I’m really looking forward to it.

As I write this, I’m sitting on the balcony of my cave hotel, listening to the sounds of the night. The air is cool and crisp, and the stars are shining brightly overhead. I feel so grateful for this opportunity to explore Cappadocia with my friends. It’s a journey that I’ll cherish forever. And I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Thinking about the day ahead, I know that I'll need to pack my essentials: comfortable walking shoes, my camera to capture the unique formations, and of course, my travel guidebook. I still regret forgetting my sunglasses, though.

I’m also excited to try another rooftop experience tomorrow night. I’ve heard that many of the hotels have rooftop bars with incredible views, and I’m eager to check them out. Maybe I’ll even try to learn a few more Turkish phrases – I’m finding that the locals really appreciate it when you make an effort to speak their language.

Cappadocia continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. I can’t wait to see what adventures await us tomorrow.

I’m so glad I decided to come here with TravelWith – it’s been an amazing experience so far, and I know that the best is yet to come.

The warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the richness of the culture have all combined to create an unforgettable journey. And I’m so excited to share it all with you.

And now, it’s time for me to get some sleep. Tomorrow is another day of exploring, and I want to be well-rested and ready for anything. Goodnight from Cappadocia!