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Turkey Walking

Turkey Walking

Turkey is as rich in natural splendor as it is in fascinating history. On Backroads' walking trip through the land known as the "crossroads of civilization," we soak up an unforgettable combination of both. Beginning in the ancient province of Cappadocia, an area of otherworldly rock formations, we explore surreal cliffside churches and even a troglodyte "high-rise" hewn from the face of a giant monolith. Heading south to the sun-soaked Turquoise Coast, we board beautiful fully outfitted gulets (yachts) for a voyage over crystalline waters stopping to swim and kayak in hidden coves. During interludes on shore, we hike into the mountains to visit with friendly villagers, investigate the crumbling ruins of the once-mighty Greek and Roman empires and revel in one glittering Mediterranean vista after another.

Days 1-2 Uchisar

Meet in Üçhisar Hike through the intriguing Pigeon Valley, home to thousands of "pigeon lofts" carved out of the soft volcanic tuff Enjoy a lunch of Turkish specialties at the earthen home of a local family Stroll through the fairy-chimney filled Honey Valley Visit the Üçhisar Fortress, offering a glimpse at the extinct 13,000-foot Erciyes Volcano.

Day 3 Goreme

Hike through the Red Valley, whose crimson and ochre layers resemble a fantastic sunset Visit a potters studio in the world-renowned ceramics town of Avanos Learn the ins and outs of carpet weaving in Göreme.

Days 4-8 Turquoise Coast

Fly to Dalaman and shuttle to Göçek, where we board classic Turkish gulets, our home base for exploring the Mediterranean coast  Make your way through pine forests to the deserted village of Kayaköy, where the ancient Greek city of Karmylassas once stood  Descend to Ölü Deniz, one of Turkey's most beautiful beaches, known for its shades of turquoise and aquamarine water  Enjoy a refreshing swim and a hike to the quaint seaside village of Kalkan Discover Lycian tombs en route to the aquamarine bay of Ufakdere Sail to Kekova, where an ancient pirate settlement crumbles into the sea.

big map Turkey Walking

Cliffside Comforts & Seaborne Relaxation: Premiere Inns

Museum Hotel (2 nights): This elegant and charming retreat in the heart of Cappadocia overlooks the surrounding valleys and features ornate guest rooms carved out of volcanic tuff.

Anatolian Houses (1 night): An elegant property in the heart of Cappadocia, with individually decorated guest rooms carved into the rock.

Turkish yachts (4 nights): Beautiful wooden replicas of ancient sailing vessels, our yachts are staffed with four crew members and feature private bathrooms in our cabins.

Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
       
  Turkey Walking
Trips For All Abilities

Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.

Activity Level Average Time Average Distance
    Biking Walking & Hiking
Level 1 2-3 hours 10-20 mile 2-5 miles
Level 2 2-4 hours 21-30 miles 5-7 miles
Level 3 3-5 hours 31-40 miles 7-9 miles
Level 4 4-6 hours 41-55 miles 9-11 miles
Level 5 5-7+ hours 56-75+ miles 11-13+ miles
2008 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS

Reserve early for the best available price. Prices may change during the course of the year--if they do change, the best prices are available earlier. Once you book your trip, your price is guaranteed.

Guest Trip Reviews

Combining two of the most spectacular regions of Turkey - Cappadocia and the Mediterranean - this trip offers a unique experience complete with old-world ambiance and spectacular lodging. Note that Cleopatra and Anthony traveled here as a romantic getaway. Backroads helps you explore Turkey's ancient and modern history for yourself.
Mark Selcon - Regional Manager, Europe