Cappadocia is a destination that captivates visitors with its mesmerizing blend of history, natural beauty, and mystical charm. Its iconic fairy chimneys and enchanting landscapes make it one of Turkey’s most popular tourist regions. Among the many attractions in Cappadocia, its stunning valleys stand out as must-visit locations. At MDC Hotel, we are pleased to offer our guests curated Cappadocia Valley Tours, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience exploring the region’s most famous and breathtaking valleys.
Pigeon Valley Cappadocia
Pigeon Valley is one of the most captivating valleys in Cappadocia. It is named after the tradition of pigeon breeding that began in the 9th century. Locals discovered that pigeon droppings were highly beneficial for grape cultivation, leading to the widespread establishment of pigeon lofts in the area. The valley, stretching from Uçhisar to Göreme over approximately 4 kilometers, also features a lesser-known, serene waterfall around 15 meters high, adding to its charm.
Rose Valley Cappadocia
Like many other valleys in Cappadocia, Rose Valley boasts several monasteries, churches, and ancient dwellings carved into the rocks. Visitors can engage in activities like hiking and trekking while admiring its natural beauty. The valley is divided into two sections, one of which houses settlements where monks and priests once sought seclusion. Notable landmarks include Direkli Church, Cross Church (St. Agathangelus Church), Anna Church, Ayvali Church, and Three Crosses Church.
Love Valley Cappadocia
Long ago, what is now known as Love Valley was once a small village inhabited by ten families. Legend has it that a dispute divided the village, but two young villagers, one from each feuding family, fell in love. Despite efforts to keep them apart, they married and even had a child. Sadly, their love story ended in tragedy, and their spirits are said to wander the valley to this day. Love Valley, also known as Lovers’ Valley or Bağlıdere, is not only rich in folklore but also offers unparalleled beauty. It is particularly popular with honeymoon couples and hot air balloon enthusiasts, providing picturesque views of the fairy chimneys.
Zemi Valley Cappadocia
Zemi Valley is one of the longest trekking routes in Cappadocia, stretching over 5,600 meters. Named after the Zemi Stream that runs through it, the valley is lined with trees bearing plums, cherries, apricots, and hazelnuts. Visitors can also explore historic churches like Sarnıç Church, El Nazar Church, Karabulut Church, and the hidden Görkündere and Saklı Churches.
Paşabağ Cappadocia (Monks’ Valley)
Known as Monks’ Valley or Zelve Valley, Paşabağ is famous for being a retreat for monks seeking solitude in ancient times. The serenity and tranquility of the valley make it easy to see why it was chosen for this purpose. The area is dotted with mulberry and grapevines, and visitors may even spot locals practicing beekeeping.
Devrent Valley Cappadocia
Devrent Valley, also called the Valley of Imagination, gets its name from the fairy chimneys resembling various animals and human figures. The most iconic formation here is a fairy chimney shaped like a camel. True to its name, the valley sparks the imagination and transports visitors to a dreamlike world.
Red Valley Cappadocia
Also known as Kızıl Vadi (Red Valley), this valley is famous for its red volcanic tuff formations that take on an even deeper hue during sunset. Though the terrain can be challenging to navigate due to its many twists and turns, it offers a unique experience with fascinating tunnels, including one stretching 37 meters.
Pancarlık Valley Cappadocia
Pancarlık Valley is known for its colorful rock formations in shades of pink and red. Its main attraction is Pancarlık Church, a site as awe-inspiring as Cappadocia’s other renowned churches.
Gomeda Valley Cappadocia
Gomeda Valley takes its name from the Gomeda Ruins and is home to a network of endless, pitch-black tunnels. Once used to collect rainwater, these tunnels now serve as irrigation for the valley’s poplar trees. Unlike other valleys, Gomeda lacks fairy chimneys, which may explain its lower visitor numbers. However, it remains a site of intrigue with its 600 estimated dwellings, two churches, and an underground city. The valley has inspired local legends about fairies and battles between good and evil and was the setting for the 2007 Turkish horror film Gomeda.
Ihlara Valley Cappadocia
Known in ancient texts as Peristremma, Ihlara Valley is one of the world’s most significant canyons, with hundreds of churches, some of which are open to visitors. It was once the largest settlement area in the region and features the Melendiz River running through it. Its lush greenery, vineyards, gardens, and numerous historic churches make it an exceptional destination.
At MDC Hotel, we design our Cappadocia Valley Tours based on our guests’ preferences. Given the wealth of valleys to explore, it is impossible to visit them all in a single day. We encourage our guests to communicate their desired itineraries to us in advance so we can craft the most suitable plan for their stay.
