Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of Goreme, Turkey

A Fond Farewell to Cappadocia

As our Cappadocian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. Today was a perfect blend of history, adventure, and culinary delights, a fitting end to our Turkish escapade. It's amazing how much we've managed to pack into these last few days, and I'm eager to share the highlights of our final day with you.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Oscar Steak House. I opted for a traditional Turkish coffee, while Elke enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and olives. Maximilian, of course, went straight for the pepper steak, declaring it the best he'd had all trip. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and friendly service set the perfect tone for our final day of exploration.


Savor the best steaks and traditional Turkish cuisine at Oscar Steak House in picturesque Göreme.

After breakfast, we made our way to Butterfly Balloons for a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. As someone who appreciates meticulous planning and attention to detail, I was immediately impressed by the professionalism and safety measures taken by the Butterfly Balloons team. The sky was already dotted with colorful balloons as we arrived, creating a surreal and breathtaking scene.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia aboard Butterfly Balloons, where unforgettable aerial views and serene experiences await every traveler.

As we ascended, the landscape unfolded beneath us in all its glory. The fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations of Cappadocia were bathed in the soft morning light, creating a panorama that was simply unforgettable. It was like floating over a dreamscape, a moment of pure magic that I will cherish forever. Maximilian was particularly thrilled, snapping photos from every angle, while Elke and I simply soaked in the serenity of the moment. Our pilot, Fetih, was not only skilled but also incredibly witty, sharing stories and insights about the region as we drifted along.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

After our exhilarating balloon ride, we descended back to earth, where the Butterfly Balloons team greeted us with a celebratory glass of champagne and a light breakfast. It was the perfect way to conclude such an extraordinary experience.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to Kaymaklı Underground City. This ancient subterranean city, dating back to the 7th century BC, is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. As we descended into the depths, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate network of tunnels and chambers carved into the soft volcanic rock.


Discover the ancient underground city of Kaymaklı in Nevşehir, Turkey, a remarkable site showcasing historical ingenuity and captivating architecture.

The underground city was built by the Phrygians around the 8th century BC. Later on, it was expanded by early Christians as a refuge from persecution during the Arab-Byzantine wars. It's hard to imagine living in such cramped and confined spaces, but the early inhabitants of Kaymaklı created a self-sufficient community, complete with living quarters, kitchens, storage rooms, and even a church.

Exploring the narrow passages and low ceilings of Kaymaklı was a humbling experience, a reminder of the resourcefulness and determination of those who came before us. Maximilian, with his youthful energy, navigated the tunnels with ease, while Elke and I took our time, carefully observing the details of this ancient underground world. The city is believed to be the widest underground city in existence. Only four of the eight levels are open to the public.

After our subterranean adventure, we surfaced back into the sunlight and made our way to EYMEN LEATHER CENTER DERİCİ UÇHİSAR KAPADOKYA DERİ CAPPADOCIA LEATHER CENTER for a bit of shopping. Elke had been wanting to find a high-quality leather jacket, and this outlet mall in Uchisar seemed like the perfect place to do so. The center offered an array of leather goods, showcasing Turkish leather craftsmanship. Elke found a beautiful sheepskin jacket that she absolutely loved. Maximilian, surprisingly, also found a stylish leather belt that caught his eye. As for me, I appreciated the craftsmanship and quality of the leather goods, even though I didn't find anything for myself.


Explore EYMEN Leather Center in Uçhisar for exquisite leather products and experience the artistry of Cappadocia's craftsmanship.

For lunch, we stopped at Antik Shop, conveniently located near the leather center. We enjoyed a light meal of Turkish specialties, savoring the flavors of the region one last time. The restaurant's relaxed atmosphere provided a welcome respite after our busy morning of exploration and shopping.


Explore Antik Shop in Göreme for unique Turkish treasures and handcrafted souvenirs that encapsulate the region's rich culture and heritage.

Our final dinner in Cappadocia was at Happena Restaurant, known for its Hittite and ancient Anatolian cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance was exotic, with a fine fireplace and friendly staff. We indulged in a variety of traditional Turkish dishes, including meat kebabs, turkey, and ravioli. The baklava was a sweet and satisfying conclusion to our meal.


Discover Happena Restaurant in Göreme for authentic Turkish cuisine amidst breathtaking Cappadocian landscapes.

As we savored our last bites, we reflected on the incredible experiences we've had in Cappadocia. From the stunning landscapes to the rich history and warm hospitality, this region has captured our hearts and imaginations. It's a place we will surely never forget, and I hope to return someday to explore even more of its hidden treasures.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home to Heidelberg, filled with memories and stories to share. While I'm looking forward to returning to the familiar comforts of home, I will miss the enchanting landscapes and the unique charm of Cappadocia. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of family, adventure, and the power of travel to broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Until next time, farewell from Cappadocia!

As I sit here, penning down the events of the day, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our trip is coming to an end. But I know that the memories we've created here in Cappadocia will last a lifetime. I am also grateful that I didn't forget any of my TripEssentials, although I wish I had brought my Binoculars with me, as they would have been greatly helpful during the hot air balloon flight. It's time to pack our bags and prepare for the journey back home. But before I do, I raise a glass to Cappadocia, a land of wonders, history, and unparalleled beauty. Auf Wiedersehen!