It took a morning of travel, but we finally arrived in Cappadocia (more specifically the town of Göreme)!
We’ll be spending the night in a 1,500 year old room that had previously been both a Chapel and a dove cote in previous lives. Oh, and did we mention it’s carved into a “Fairy Chimney” (unique rock formations that look kinda like stone mushrooms)?
We grabbed a quick lunch of what was basically lamb enchiladas, the split the day between exploring the Göreme Open Air Museum and hiking through “Love Valley”.
The museum was a bunch of 900 year old rock spires (circa 11th century) that had been homes and churches for those living in the area. The mind-boggling thing about the churches is that many of their frescos are in great shape as the rock caves shield them from the elements and the sun.
On the way back into town, we cut through Love Valley, which offered great views of many different rock formations.
We were accompanied for most of the way by two very friendly dogs – sometimes it seemed like they were almost guiding the way!
Midway through the hike, we realized we were running out of time to make it to Sunset Point, some some cross country hiking began, culminating in a 45° scramble up the side of the Valley. Well worth it for the view:
On our way to dinner, we ran into a friend of Grant’s from Brazil – totally universed!
And then wheeled our way into Topdeck Cave Restaurant without a reservation by promising to eat faster than the other tourists. We then bolted down a delicious mixed appetizer (meze) plate followed by the tenderest of lamb dishes. Dessert was soft ovals of flour and butter covered in grape syrup and walnuts called “aside”.
Oh, and did we mention this meal wasn’t enjoyed on the ‘top deck’ but in a cave!
[Panorama — click for a full view!]
-G & J
Always wanted to have,a fancy dinner by cave light. J