Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of Goreme, Turkey

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of stepping back in time, immersing ourselves in the history and surreal landscapes that define Cappadocia. Leaving the cozy embrace of Kookaburra Pension, we set out to explore the wonders that Cappadocia National Park and the Zelve Open Air Museum had to offer. It was a journey not just through geographical space, but through centuries of human endeavor and natural artistry.


Discover the heart of Göreme at Kookaburra Pension, offering affordable comfort, local cuisine, and stunning views for an unforgettable stay.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at İnci Cave Restaurant Göreme. The traditional Turkish spread was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. Elke particularly enjoyed the fresh honey and kaymak, while Maximilian devoured a plate of menemen. I savored the strong Turkish coffee, knowing we had a full day ahead of us.

Our first stop was Cappadocia National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park itself is a geological marvel, formed over millions of years through volcanic activity and erosion. The resulting landscape is a breathtaking panorama of fairy chimneys, rock pillars, and valleys that seem to belong to another world. As we drove through the park, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale and beauty of nature's artistry. Maximilian, with his youthful enthusiasm, was particularly fascinated by the rock formations, pointing out shapes that resembled animals and mythical creatures.


Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Cappadocia National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with unique rock formations and adventure.

The stones here whisper stories of civilizations long past, a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity and nature's boundless creativity.

We spent a good part of the morning hiking through the park, taking in the panoramic views and capturing the surreal landscape with my trusted camera. Elke, ever the historian, read aloud from our travel guidebook, sharing insights into the geological processes and the human history intertwined with these unique formations. It's truly remarkable how the soft tuff rock has been shaped by wind and water over millennia, creating the iconic fairy chimneys that define Cappadocia.

Next on our itinerary was the Zelve Open Air Museum. Once a thriving village and an important Christian center, Zelve was inhabited from the 9th century until the 1950s when it was abandoned due to safety concerns from erosion and rockfall. As we entered the museum, a sense of profound stillness washed over us. Unlike the more famous Göreme Open Air Museum, Zelve felt more raw and untamed, offering a glimpse into the past without the crowds.


Discover the ancient rock-cut churches and stunning landscapes of Zelve Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cappadocia, Turkey.

The museum is spread across three valleys, each containing rock-cut churches, dwellings, and a mosque, reflecting the coexistence of Christians and Muslims in this region. We explored the Grape Church (Üzümlü Kilise) in the first valley, marveling at the faint remnants of frescoes that once adorned its walls. The church, dating back to the 6th century, served as the main place of worship for the Christian inhabitants of Zelve. Maximilian was intrigued by the Fish Church (Balıklı Kilise), perched high on a ridge, and we carefully climbed up to take a closer look.

As we wandered through the valleys, Elke pointed out the ingenious engineering of the dwellings, carved directly into the rock. These self-sufficient homes had underground tunnels connecting different parts of the village, and some even had their own wells and ventilation systems. It was a testament to the resourcefulness and adaptability of the people who once called this place home. We learned that Zelve was also an important center for Christian monastic life from the 9th through 13th centuries, housing some of the region's first seminaries.

In the third valley, we visited the mosque, a testament to the peaceful coexistence of Turkish Muslims and Greek Christians during the Ottoman era. The minaret, built in the baldachin style, stood as a silent witness to the passage of time. It was fascinating to see how different cultures and religions had left their mark on this unique landscape.

By midday, our stomachs were beginning to rumble, so we headed to Gurme kebab restaurant for lunch. We enjoyed traditional Turkish kebabs and pides, savoring the flavors of the region. Maximilian, always eager to try new things, even sampled a bit of çiğ köfte, though he found it a bit too spicy for his taste. After a satisfying lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the atmosphere and observing the local life.


Experience the best kebabs in Göreme at Gurme Kebab Restaurant - where traditional flavors meet stunning views.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Rooftop by Castle. The bar, perched atop the Castle Cave House, offered breathtaking panoramic views of Goreme and the surrounding valleys. As we sipped our drinks, we watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the fairy chimneys and rock formations. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with fellow travelers sharing stories and laughter.


Discover Rooftop by Castle, where breathtaking views of Cappadocia meet exquisite drinks and a magical atmosphere.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Omurca Art Cave for dinner. This unique restaurant combined traditional Turkish cuisine with local art, creating a feast for both the palate and the eyes. The cave setting added to the ambiance, making it a truly memorable dining experience. Elke was particularly impressed by the intricate pottery and artwork on display, while Maximilian enjoyed trying different Turkish desserts.


Experience unique dining at Omurca Art Cave in Göreme—where art meets exquisite Turkish cuisine in an enchanting cave setting.

Before heading back to the Kookaburra Pension, we made a final stop at Rooftop by Castle for a nightcap. The bar was even more magical under the starlit sky, with the distant lights of Goreme twinkling like diamonds. We chatted with the friendly staff, learning about their lives and experiences in Cappadocia. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Red Valley Park and Rose Valley, hoping to catch a mesmerizing sunset amidst the colorful rock formations. We also intend to visit Cappadocia Rug Collection to find a rug [if we can agree on a design and price!]. I am looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in this enchanting land. I also need to remember to buy some binoculars, as I forgot them at home and they would be very useful for getting a better look at the landscape.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this remarkable region with my family. Cappadocia is a place that stays with you long after you leave, its unique landscapes and rich history etched into your memory. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of the words of the Austrian poet, Adalbert Stifter:

The gentle law is this: to see the beautiful is to do the beautiful, even if only in dream.

And indeed, Cappadocia is a dream come true, a place where beauty and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.