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Activity Level: M
Start / Finish: Istanbul / Bodrum
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Rock of Ages
With a human history dating back to the Bronze Age and natural wonders forged at the dawn of time itself, Cappadocia has been waiting for you for a long, long time. Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman emperors have all sought claim to this land of volcanoes and valleys, and their imprint has survived to form a region densely-packed with historic sites, villages carved into the sides of mountains and geological marvels like the minaret-shaped rocks near Göreme. Coincidentally, it’s also the perfect spot to warm up before hitting the Turquoise Coast. No time like the present!
Day 1 Explore Istanbul's Rustem Pasa mosque before flying to Cappadocia to settle into our hotel’s luxurious cave suites (trust us, they’re amazing!)
Day 2 Watch the sunrise from a hot-air balloon before embarking on a day-long walking tour along trails blazed by the Romans, Persians and Mongols with a local guide
Day 3 Visit Ephesus, one of the world’s richest and most important archaeological sites, then lunch on some of the most delicious kebabs you’ll ever taste
Day 4 Explore the magical sites of Priene and Didyma before rendezvousing with your fellow Turquoise Coast By Sea travellers at our hotel in Bodrum
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Click a date below for detailed pricing information
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2010
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September 7 – 10
4 Days / 3 Nights
Price per person from: $3,995
Single supplement: $500
October 5 – 8
4 Days / 3 Nights
Price per person from: $3,995
Single supplement: $500
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Les Maisons de Cappadoce, Uçhisar
French architect Jacques Avizou spent nearly ten years renovating these cave dwellings in the UNESCO-protected village of Uçhisar. Modern amenities and comforts have been added without sacrificing the original features. The result is luxurious houses with vaulted rooms, stone terraces, colourful kilims (carpets), full kitchens and contemporary bathrooms, all accented with traditional Avanos earthenware.
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Nisanyan Kösk Hotel, Sirince
Kösk Hotel overlooks the charming Aegean village of Sirince. Staying here is a step back in time. The pace of life is at such a
standstill that a snail was chosen for the hotel’s insignia. The walls have been lovingly adorned with frescoes copied from originals found in the Roman villas of Ephesus, and with family portraits and heirlooms. Morning wake-up calls are not required here; if the call to prayer doesn’t rouse you, the local donkeys and roosters surely will!
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The Marmara Bodrum, Bodrum
The Marmara Bodrum is the lap of luxury. The hotel’s hilltop location makes it superb for sunset gatherings and its incredible facilities (massage, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, squash courts and swimming pools) are complemented by playful art and a minimalist décor. Our rooms overlook the Aegean Sea.
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Moderate
This trip is rated Moderate. We walk in two distinct regions. In Cappadocia, we walk among unique rock formations and explore Byzantine cave churches. The walking is manageable, but proper footwear is essential. Along the coast, we traverse established trails and roads, which are occasionally rocky, with moderate ups and downs. We walk 3-4 hours before lunch, leaving afternoons most days open for events and village explorations. Certainly, if you want more walking in the afternoon, there are optional routes available. A word of warning: at hotter times of the year, we endeavour to find shady spots wherever possible, and always have lots of water available—but sun hats are a must!
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