What to do in Derinkuyu

The exceptional Göreme Open Air Museum is home to a number of churches carved into the rocks by medieval Christian monks. Explore the historic site on foot to see intriguing frescos from 1,000 years ago and learn about the Byzantine people who created them. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the main draw of the Cappadocia region due to its awe-inspiring views, diverse terrain and sculpted spiritual homes.

About 1 million visitors per year visit nature’s tribute to male fertility in the Love Valley. Its fairy chimneys differ from other examples in the region as they have a wide base, narrow pillar and cone-shaped peak. Millions of years of erosion from wind and rain along with volcanic eruptions formed the rock formations, which are considered both comical and beautiful. A hot air balloon over the extraordinary landscape is an unforgettable experience.

Uçhisar Castle is a large rock formation rising tall above the terrain like a giant anthill full of small, dark holes. It attracts visitors with its intriguing history and stunning panorama that includes the surrounding landscape and Mount Erciyes in the distance. Look for black holes indicating the entrances to abodes, tunnels and dovecotes crafted into the rock many centuries ago.

Sunset Point is known affectionately among locals and visitors as Göreme’s most beautiful vista. Watch the colorful hot air balloons illuminate the sky with a backdrop of fairy chimneys and diverse terrain. As its name suggests, the viewpoint is particularly charming in the evening as the sun goes down and turns the sky red and gold.

Red Valley is one of Cappadocia’s most scenic walking routes due to its colorful rock formations and historic carved churches. Hike through the Mars-like terrain for about 2 hours to appreciate its aesthetic qualities and intriguing history. The former homes, churches and dovecotes are surviving reminders of the monks who lived here more than a millennium ago with their pigeon messengers and pets.

Pigeon Valley is a picturesque maze of exceptional rock formations, cave dwellings and a distant volcano. The diverse terrain, which seems like it comes from another planet, stretches for miles between Göreme and Uçhisar. Take a break midway through your hike at a charming café in the middle of the valley.