Stone columns in Cappadocia

Cappadocia is a historical region in the heart of Turkey. Characterized by an extremely interesting volcanic landscape, underground cities, created in 1 millennium BC and extensive cave monasteries, leading its history since the days of the early Christians. But the most interesting object for tourists are famous stone pillars, which are shown in all brochures.

This is not a unique phenomenon, for example Ukraine has a similar Valley of Ghosts in the Crimea.

Due to the volcanic activity millions of years ago the territory was covered with tuffs and other geological formations. Then began a long period of weathering which created interesting natural formations known as stone pillars.

Two main places:
 - Monks Valley (Pasabag Valley, on the map)
 - Love Valley (Baglidere valley, on the map)

Both valleys are located between Goreme and Avanos, distance from both cities is no more than 5 km. Location can be seen on the following map.

There is no valley of Imagination (Devrent Valley) on the previous map. It is located to the right of the Monks valley. Location of Imagination Valley can be seen on this great map. Here you can find a variety of unusual stones, such as a camel, snake, seal and dolphin.






2 days tour to Cappadocia is a very popular tour in the southern resorts. Ballooning in the area is also quite popular, though in recent years there have been several tragic accidents. In 2009, the Englishman died when two balloons collided in the air. And in 2013 the tourist from Brazil died and 24 people were injured during similar accident. Actually, it is not surprising, since hundred of balloons fly in the air. From the distance it looks pretty nice. 1 hour flight cost 165 euros, including transfers and breakfast. 1.5 hour flight - 230 euros (http://www.kapadokyaballoons.com/en/).


Getting there: There nearest towns are Goreme and Avanos, there you can order a tour to the valleys. Information how to get to Goreme is here. Almost all hostels and guesthouses in Goreme offer hiking tours into the valley of Love (3-4 hours, $7.5-10). You can take a taxi and walk alone, then call again and go to the next valley. If you have the whole day and a map, you can go on foot, the way of Goreme to all three valleys and back is about 25-30 kilometers. Decide for yourself.