Cappadocia & the Turquoise Coast (Hike & Sail)
Starting in Istanbul, we explore the incredible architectural wonders of this vibrant city before journeying on to Cappadocia; one of the world’s truly awesome landscapes. A myriad of deep, volcanic valleys, bizarre rock formations and fretted ravines have been sculptured over eons by wind and water. This surreal, otherworldly terrain is best explored on foot. We hike through the Zeminderesi, Love, Avcilar and Kizilçukur Valleys, and discover the distinctive, banded colours, ‘fairy chimneys’ and rock cones unique to each. A land that has been inhabited by man for thousands of years, we explore intricate cave dwellings, rock-cut churches, monasteries and elaborate underground cities. From Cappadocia, we head to the tranquil, crystal blue waters of the south eastern coast line. Here we indulge in an idyllic gulet cruise along the stunning Turquoise Coast, through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Encounter unspoilt bays, secluded coves and rocky peninsulas and explore ancient cities from Lycian, Pamphylian, Greek and Roman times. With a different anchorage each evening, experience a truly physical adventure and an enriching cultural exchange with the hospitable, gracious folk of the coastal villages. And you’ll have plenty of time to swim, sunbathe and simply relax in picture perfect splendour.
Itinerary
| Day Number(s) | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | (Sat) Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to hotel. |
| 2 | Explore the sites of Istanbul including the Blue Mosque and ancient Hippodrome. Afternoon flight to Cappadocia. |
| 3 | Walk from Akvadi Valley to Uçhisar village. Afternoon walk through the Pigeon Valley (5 hrs). |
| 4 | Explore the Pasabaglari Valley (Priest Valley) and walk to the village of Çavusin, one of Turkey’s first Christian settlements. See the frescoes in the chapel dedicated to St John the Baptist. Continue walking to Kizilcukur (Red Valley) (5-6 hrs). |
| 5 | Visit the incredible underground city of Derinkuyu. Walk along the Melendiz River of the Ilhara Valley discovering fascinating Byzantine cave chapels (2-3 hrs). |
| 6 | Travel to Eğirdir. En route visit a 13th century sultanhani caravanserai and the city of Konya including Mevlana's Mausoleum. |
| 7 | Explore the Lycian city of Phaselis. Drive to harbour of Çayagizi where we board our gulet (traditional sailing boat) for our gulet cruise. |
| 8-9 | Cruise the Kekova area exploring uninhabited islands, rock formations and mountain landscapes. Visit the settlement of Ucagiz and the quaint village of Simena. |
| 10 | Sail west of Kekova along the stunning Turquoise Coast to the pretty village of Kas. |
| 11 | Disembark our gulet in Fethiye and drive to the coastal city of Antalya. |
| 12 | Tour ends in Antalya after breakfast (Wed). |
Trip Highlights
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At A Glance
Trip Length |
12 days |
Trip Code |
PECA |
Activities |
|
| Walking (Moderate), Cruising (Easy), Culture (Easy) | |
Minimum Passengers |
|
| 6 people | |
Maximum Passengers |
|
| 12 people | |
Countries Visited |
|
| Turkey | |
Start City |
|
| Istanbul | |
End City |
|
| Antalya | |
