The Ihlara Valley is a place of natural beauty and historical significance. The valley is located in the province of Aksaray, in the middle of Central Anatolia, where it lies between two volcanic mountains; Mount Hasan and Mount Melendiz. The valley stretches for 14 kilometers and is home to various rock-cut churches, monasteries, and other ancient ruins. It's also a popular destination for trekking as it's surrounded by a lush landscape filled with plants and wildlife. Let’s take a closer look at this stunning area.
Ihlara Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times but its religious significance began during early Christianity when monks settled in the area during the 4th century AD. During this time many churches were built into the cliffs on either side of the Melendiz River which remain today as some of Turkey's most important archaeological sites. Over time these churches were forgotten until they were rediscovered in 1834 by British explorer Charles Fellows who wrote extensively about them in his journals thus sparking interest amongst scholars around Europe at that time.
Ihlara Valley is known as one of Turkey's most popular trekking areas. Tourists can explore the region by foot, taking in its majestic views, visiting hidden caves, and learning about its rich history. There are several routes to choose from that range from easy to moderate hikes along the Melendiz River or more challenging climbs up nearby mountains. Trekkers can expect to see some incredible sights such as rock-cut churches, colorful villages peppering the hillsides, and plenty of wildlife along the way.
For those who prefer not to trek through Ihlara Valley themselves there are plenty of daily tour options available too. To be honest, on these day tours, you will not walk the whole valley, but at least about 4 km. The total length of the valley is around 14 km. Most tours offer pick up from nearby cities like Göreme, Çavuşin, Uçhisar and Avanos before heading off on an adventure around the valley itself. Tourists will have a chance to explore some of the area's historical sites like Selime Monastery and Belisirma Village while also enjoying breathtaking views along their journey.
Ihlara Valley is a magical place that should be experienced by everyone looking for an adventure filled with natural beauty and rich history! Whether you're planning on going on your own trek or booking onto one of many daily tours available you can guarantee yourself an unforgettable experience exploring this remarkable area! From discovering hidden caves to visiting serene monasteries there is something here for everyone so pack your bags and get ready for an incredible journey through Ihlara Valley!
