Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of Goreme, Turkey

A Day Steeped in History

Today marked the beginning of our family's Cappadocian adventure, and what a start it was! Leaving behind the familiar comfort of Heidelberg, we embarked on a journey to uncover the secrets of Göreme, a place where history and nature intertwine in the most captivating way. From the moment we stepped onto Turkish soil, I knew this trip would be one for the books.

Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast at the Kookaburra Pension. Elke, Maximilian and I enjoyed a traditional Turkish spread. The fresh bread, local cheeses, and strong Turkish coffee fortified us for a day of exploration. I had forgotten my binoculars, a small oversight that Elke was quick to tease me about, but nothing could dampen my spirits.


Discover the heart of Göreme at Kookaburra Pension, offering affordable comfort, local cuisine, and stunning views for an unforgettable stay.
With our bellies full and anticipation high, we set off to explore the renowned Göreme Open Air Museum. It felt surreal to be walking through a place that once housed a thriving monastic community. The museum is a complex of rock-cut churches, each adorned with unique and vibrant frescoes. As a restorer of antique furniture, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and artistry of these ancient paintings. Despite their age, many of the frescoes retained their original colors, depicting biblical scenes and the lives of saints.


Uncover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of the Göreme Open Air Museum, an essential destination in Cappadocia for all travelers.

To walk through Göreme is to walk through the pages of a history book, where each cave and fresco tells a story of faith, resilience, and artistic expression.

The August sun beat down on us, but the cool interiors of the churches offered a welcome respite. Maximilian was particularly fascinated by the Dark Church (Karanlık Kilise), where the frescoes are exceptionally well-preserved due to the limited light exposure. Elke, ever the librarian, was engrossed in reading every informational plaque, eager to learn about the history and significance of each site. I found myself lost in contemplation, imagining the lives of the monks and nuns who once called this place home. It's humbling to think about their dedication and the challenges they faced in this remote and unforgiving landscape.

Leaving the Göreme Open Air Museum, we made our way towards the Fairy Chimneys Tourism Information center. I was eager to get a closer look at these geological formations that define the Cappadocian landscape. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a whimsical wonderland of towering rock pillars, sculpted by centuries of wind and water. It's easy to see why they're called fairy chimneys – they seem straight out of a children's storybook!


Experience the surreal beauty of Fairy Chimneys in Cappadocia, a stunning natural marvel that enchants every visitor with its unique geological formations.
We spent a good hour wandering among the fairy chimneys, taking photographs and marveling at their unique shapes. Maximilian, with his youthful energy, climbed up some of the lower formations, much to Elke's mild dismay. I, on the other hand, preferred to admire them from a distance, appreciating the grandeur and scale of nature's artistry. According to local legend, these formations were created by fairies who built their homes beneath the rocks. Whether that's true or not, there's no denying the magical quality of this place.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed to Anatolian Kitchen for a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with tourists and locals alike, a testament to its popularity. I opted for the lentil soup, while Elke chose the Turkish pizza. Maximilian, ever adventurous, ordered a kebab. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The owner, Ramis, was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect place to refuel after a morning of sightseeing.


Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Anatolian Kitchen in Göreme - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Cappadocia Antique Culturel Collection. As someone who appreciates craftsmanship and history, I was in my element. The shop was filled with an array of handcrafted souvenirs, including traditional Turkish ceramics, intricate textiles, and unique antiques. Elke was particularly drawn to the textiles, while Maximilian eyed a few antique daggers (which, of course, Elke quickly vetoed). I ended up purchasing a small, hand-painted ceramic bowl, a memento of our first day in Göreme.


Explore the Cappadocia Antique Cultural Collection for unique handcrafted gifts that embody the rich heritage and artistry of the region.
As the afternoon wore on, we made our way to Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant And Art Gallery for dinner. This restaurant is known for its artistic presentation and traditional Turkish dishes. The cozy atmosphere and beautiful interior made it the perfect place to unwind after a busy day. We opted for the set menu, which included a variety of local specialties. The lamb shank was particularly delicious, tender and flavorful. The service was impeccable, and the owner even came out to greet us, making us feel like honored guests.


Experience authentic Turkish flavors and local artistry at Pumpkin Göreme Restaurant & Art Gallery in the heart of Cappadocia.
As we savored our meal, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're planning to visit Love Valley and Pigeon Valley, two more of Cappadocia's iconic landscapes. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the rocks of Pigeon Valley. And perhaps a visit to the Red Red Wine House is in order for a relaxing evening tipple after a long day of exploring.

Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the unique blend of history and natural beauty that defines Göreme. It's a place where you can literally walk through the past, exploring ancient churches and dwellings carved into the rock formations. The warm August weather, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 32°C, made it ideal for exploring the outdoors. The clear skies and sunshine added to the magic of the landscape.

As we walked back to the Kookaburra Pension, under a sky dusted with stars, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, gratitude for the chance to explore such a remarkable place, and gratitude for the reminder that history is not just something we read about in books – it's something we can touch, feel, and experience firsthand. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection – a perfect start to our Cappadocian adventure.

Tomorrow, we venture forth again, to Love Valley and Pigeon Valley. Good night from Göreme.