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Walking Holidays in Turkey

Walking Holidays in Turkey

Top 5 Places to Visit on Walking Holidays in Turkey

Cappadocia: Piercing the skyline with its fantastical rocky pillars, Cappadocia is a dreamlike vision that attract visitors from across the world. These curious, geological wonders rise up against a canvas of rugged hills in central Turkey and are known as the ‘fairy chimneys’ owing to their distinctive formations. One of the best ways to witness these natural wonders is by hot air balloon which gives you a bird’s-eye perspective of this almost unreal landscape. Back on the ground, you might also get to see the equally interesting wildlife such as the Eurasian fox or the hoopoe.

Kaymakli: Also located in Cappadocia is the underground city of Kaymakli. Built by Christians as far back as the 7th-century BCE, Kaymakli is a labyrinth of tunnels, caves and ancient homes and settlements where the local people would hide to avoid attack from the Byzantine invaders. It’s hard to imagine that inhabitants lived in this underground city and created everything from kitchens and living areas to stables and there’s even a church and graveyard. At one time a staggering number of people, around 3,500, lived inside Kaymakli City.

Goreme Open-Air Museum: Believed to be a Byzantine monastic settlement and a pilgrimage site in later years, Goreme Open-Air Museum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest of its kind. The museum is a fine example of Byzantine art and architecture and is home to an incredible complex of churches, chapels and monasteries cut into the volcanic rock. Inside each of the structures you’ll find beautiful frescoes that depict life in times gone by. The 11th-century Chapel of St Basil is particularly fascinating with its paintings of St Basil himself, a Maltese cross and St George slaying a dragon. The Dark Church is another highlight of Goreme Open-Air Museum and was so named owing to its lack of windows. Because of the lack of light in the church, its frescoes have hardly faded and still retain their vibrancy.

Akvadi Valley: Also known as White Valley, Akvadi is one of the most popular walking areas in Cappadocia and also one of the most diverse valleys. There are several walking trails that lead you through surreal landscapes made up of white rocks, orchards, vineyards and fairy chimneys. As you walk along the ancient river path, there’s a real sense of calm and you’ll be enthralled by the stunning scenery.  

Arycanda: The ancient Lycian city of Arycanda lies on mountain terraces overlooking a pretty valley. It’s believed the city dates all the way back to Anatolian times and had several rulers throughout history, from the Persians and Alexander the Great to Seleucids. It is one of the oldest cities in Lycia and suffered from the great earthquake in 240 AD. Explore the Acropolis to see Hellenistic ruins, the Temple of Helios and Roman ruins. The well-preserved theatre is worth visiting to see its coloured marbles and the bust of Emperor Hadrian.

Walking the Mountains and Villages of Evia’. ✨I found the tour charming and well organized, particularly due to the efforts of our guide, Thanos. The scenery was inspiring, as was the mix of history and nature served up by our fine guide. I knew I was in for something special when Thanos began plucking pomegranates along the path, breaking and sharing them with each traveler. For me our hikes were occasionally challenging, but in a very good way where I felt accomplished at the end of each day. Our hotel had everything we needed; clean, comfortable, well located and with beautiful bay views. The hotel staff and restaurant service were uniformly friendly and helpful, as was transportation timely and safe. I particularly enjoyed meeting and sharing the experiences with the other members of our small group. By day we enjoyed delightful local pastries and sandwiches. During the evenings we were lavished with appetizing meals and wines in the Karystos area. Our guide couldn’t have been more attentive to our individual needs. A vacation both adventurous and relaxing.
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Kathleen Porter Walking the Mountains & Villages of Evia

A week of walking around Sardinia and learning about the amazing history of the Nuragic people who lived in the area!

Susanne Maden Walking in Sardinia

As an Exodus staff member, walking the Camino de Santiago with Exodus was an unforgettable experience and a truly rewarding journey from start to finish. Each day brought stunning scenery, from rolling countryside and charming villages to historic towns steeped in culture and tradition. The balance of physical challenge, personal achievement, and time to soak up the atmosphere made every stage of the trek special. Sharing the experience with a supportive group of fellow walkers and a knowledgeable local guide added to the sense of camaraderie along the route. Arriving in Santiago de Compostela after days of walking was an incredible moment, filled with pride, reflection, and a real sense of accomplishment. It was a fantastic adventure that combined breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and lasting memories in equal measure.

Adam Felgate Trekking the Camino de Santiago
Walking Holidays in Turkey