Introduction
Float
over sunken cities, discover surreal mountainous landscapes and travel through
crumbling ghost towns on this fifteen-day foray into Turkey. Lose yourself in
the mysteries and magic of the Ottoman Empire and sample traditional delicacies
sourced from land and sea. Spend a day sailing the Mediterranean aboard a
traditional Turkish boat, and share a tasty feast with a local family in the
Cappadocian Valley. From sharing fruit wine with villagers in a town that time
forgot, to discovering the old capital of the civilised world, this Turkish
delight will do just that.
Trip Summary and Grading
Only a moderate level of fitness is required for this tour, however the walk along the Lycian Way is on a rough track and steep in some places but suitable for the majority of our passengers.
Land Only Itinerary
Day 1. Arrive Istanbul.
You can arrive at any time on day 1 as there
are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 6pm.
If you arrive early, we recommend you explore this vibrant city. Visit the
cobbled Hippodrome which was once the site of ancient chariot races and visit
the exquisite Blue Mosque, Istanbul's most recognisable landmark. Whilst entry
is free, it is good custom to make a donation of a lira or two after your
visit. This is a working mosque and part of its role is to look after the less
fortunate in the community.
Day 2. Sightseeing walking tour if
Istanbul and free time. Sleeper train to Ankara.
Our time is spent discovering some of the hidden charms of Istanbul, the city
that bridges Europe and Asia, including the areas around Sultanahmet and Port
Eminonu. We take a leisurely walk to explore the city's dazzling array of
cultural and historical sites. We get off the beaten track possibly discovering
the backstreets and visiting lesser-known sites. We also visit the local spice
markets and Bazaar quarter ending our walk at the busy port of Eminonu. Each of
our leaders has their own unique view of Istanbul to show you, an insight that
only someone very familiar to a city can give. At the end of your walk you
might like to visit Topkapi Palace at your leisure this afternoon. Like any
museum, some people could spend all day in there and for others an hour or two
would suffice. It is up to you. The rest of our afternoon is free. For a change
of pace check out Taksim across the water.
In the evening we catch a first class train from the Asian shore to the nation’s
capital in Ankara. This is a very comfortable air conditioned, 2 berth cabin.
The beds fold away to become comfortable lounge chairs. The cabin includes a
basin and refrigerator with snacks and drinking water. The cabins are compact
so please consider bringing a soft bag that is easily stored under the beds.
All bedding is provided on board by the porter and is freshly laundered. The
western style toilets are located at either end of the train corridor. In rare
circumstances you may be paired with a group member of the opposite sex in your
cabin dependant on the group configuration. A freshly cooked dinner or prepared
breakfast as well as alcoholic and soft beverages and snacks are available on
the train in the restaurant wagon. There are vegetarian options available. (Included
meals: Breakfast)
Days 3-4. Transfer to Goreme and explore the Cappadocia
region.
Arriving by train in Ankara, our private
transfer (approximately 5 hours) takes us to the fascinating Cappadocia region.
Shaped by wind and water, the otherworldly rock formations have to be seen to
be believed. Rock-hewn churches, cave homes and incredible underground cities
await exploration. In times of peace, the people in this region lived on the
land but in times of war or persecution they took to living underground. Our
hotel during our stay here is styled on local architecture and enjoys prominent
views of the area.
In morning of day 4 with a local guide we
take a walk through one of the nearby valleys; perhaps we'll meander through
the Valley of Love where the rock formations will astound, or take to another
equally scenic path. We then head out to explore the Open Air Museum with its
intriguing cave churches. This wonderful World Heritage site has some of the
best examples of religious frescoes in the region. There is free time this
afternoon to take in the sites of the surrounding area perhaps visiting one of
the fascinating underground cities or ruined villages.
During our stay, we will enjoy a meal with a local family in their own home.
This is a unique experience - enjoy the famous hospitality of a Turkish family
and admire the spectacular views of surrounding landscapes at the same time.
Without a doubt, one of the most amazing memories of this journey could be of a
hot air balloon ride over the majestic landscape. This aerial tour of the
region is guided by our experienced operators and is an incredibly memorable
experience. Note: this is an optional activity and the cost varies depending on
what type of flight you choose. (B, D)
Day 5. In Konya.
Konya is the perfect opportunity for you to
sample a traditional Turkish city where mainstream tourism is yet to arrive.
The city of Konya is linked closely with the Whirling Dervish sect of Islam.
Developed by Celaleddin Rumi (or Mevlana) in the 13th Century, he is
considered one of Islam's greatest Sufi mystics. We have the option to visit
the incredible Mevlana Museum and tombs of important dervish leaders. Or get
lost in the maze of streets that make up the sprawling local bazaar filled with
many oddities such as felt handicrafts. (B)
Day 6. Bus to Antalya and explore.
After a morning public bus ride we reach
Antalya (approximately 6 hours). A fantastic mix of city sophistication and
old-world charm makes Antalya a great place to explore. The relatively unspoilt
and restored Kaleici, the old city area, is now a historical zone and protected
from modern development. With its palm-lined boulevard and
internationally-acclaimed marina, Antalya is a popular destination. Visit the
ancient Roman harbour and watch the world go by from a chic sidewalk cafe.
Some options here include the Antalya Museum, which offers a fascinating
glimpse of history and life in this region. The Suna and Inan Kirac Kaleici
Museum is located in an Antalya mansion and set up to show ambient life in an
Ottoman house. Karaalioglu Parki, with its lovely flowers and great sea views,
is a popular park for locals to go for a stroll. Otherwise, ask your tour
leader how to get to the ancient Hellenistic cities nearby, particularly
Termessos. Contemplating the past in a theatre set amongst the clouds is an
unforgettable experience. (B)
Day 7. Bus to Kas and explore.
We take a public bus ride past stunning
coastal scenery to the town of Kas (approximately 4.5 hours). With its cobbled
streets and whitewashed walls, Kas has a distinctively Mediterranean feel. The
best places to swim in town are from the waterfront restaurants that have their
own private water access. For the price of the occasional drink, you get your
own deck chair, umbrella and unbeatable views. When the sun goes down there is
the chance to explore the handicraft markets where you can find beautiful
handmade wares with a distinctly Turkish flavour. (B)
Day 8.
Day cruising around the islands near Kas
Today
we enjoy a luxurious day of cruising around the islands near Kas, swimming in
clear blue waters while also discovering the sunken city near Kekova - an awesome
experience. (B,L)
Day 9. Bus to Kayakoy and explore.
A short public bus ride (approximately 3
hours) takes us to Kayakoy. This small village is our base to explore the many
attractions of this scenic section of the Mediterranean coast, including the
resort town of Fethiye.
Kayakoy was initially a ghost village, its ancient stone houses abandoned after
their Greek inhabitants left Turkey during the great population exchange of the
1920s. Now Kayakoy provides you with the opportunity to enjoy a quiet,
traditional Turkish lifestyle. Enjoy a glass of tea and game of backgammon in
the traditional tree-lined village square or have a haircut at the local barber
shop. (B)
Day 10. Half day trek along the Lycian Way.
We set out on a half day trek along a section of rugged coastline, following
part of the Lycian Way to nearby Oludeniz (approximately 6 km) where you can
swim in the famous Blue Lagoon. Or perhaps throw yourself off Mt Baba -
attached to a paraglider of course.
Please note that the trek to Oludeniz is rated moderate to difficult and a good
level of fitness is required. The terrain under foot is sometimes slippery and
uneven and there are periods of ascent and descent. Good walking shoes are
certainly required. If you do have a reasonable level of fitness this will be
an extremely enjoyable and rewarding walk. If you are unsure as to your
capability to complete this walk please discuss with your group leader prior,
so that other arrangements can be made for this day.
During our time here we stay in a Villa run by a local family. Many of our past
travellers have listed a meal with our hosts here in Kayakoy as a highlight of
the trip. It’s some of the best food available on tour. (B)
Day 11. Bus to Selcuk, visit Ephesus.
This morning, we travel by public bus to the
town of Selcuk (approximately 5.5 hours), our base for discovering Ephesus,
former capital of the East Roman Empire. Our local guide brings history to life
as we wander through the best-preserved ancient city in Turkey, admiring its
amphitheatre and fascinating laneways.
There is also the chance to visit the excellent Ephesus museum located in the
heart of Selcuk for a deeper understanding of the ruins. St John is said to
have written his gospel in this town and the historic Basilica of St John was
erected upon his grave site in the 6th century. There is also a hilltop
citadel, first constructed by the Byzantines in the 6th Century. (B)
Day 12. In Selcuk, afternoon visit Sirince.
For lunch we learn how to make a Turkish favourite called gozleme. Thin, flaky
pastry filled with local cheese is how the locals like their gozleme. Late in
the afternoon we head out to the nearby village of Sirince, where we wander
this authentic Ottoman village. Enjoy a taste-testing of fruit wines produced
locally. This old Greek Ottoman village seems to have been overlooked by modern
development and is a photographer's dream. (B,L)
Day 13. Bus to Pamukkale and explore. Overnight bus to Istanbul.
A private bus ride (approximately 3.5 hours)
inland through mountainous landscapes brings us to one of Turkey's most
photographed sites - the gleaming white travertine terraces of Pamukkale. These
are created from limestone deposits, formed when water from the hot springs
loses carbon dioxide. These layers of white calcium carbonate have earned
Pamukkale the nickname 'cotton castles' and the pools, now off-limits, have
been famed for their medicinal qualities since Roman times.
Though we are not able to bathe in the world-famous Travertines, we can still
walk through them (no shoes please!) and bathe in healing thermal springs at
the nearby Roman site of Hierapolis. Home to an oracle at one time, a
well-preserved Roman theatre still remains here. Wander the colonnaded streets
and discover the necropolis with its many unique tombs looking every bit like a
scene from judgement day.
In the late afternoon we catch a luxury overnight bus to Istanbul. The seats
are reclining airline style, and the bus stops every few hours at rest stops.
Bus services in Turkey are excellent by world class standards. (B)
Please note: We normally take this journey by train, but there are currently
engineering works. As soon as the train line re-opens we will start taking the
train again.
It is possible to book a flight for this
journey if you would prefer. A number of flight services run between Denizli
and Istanbul. A flight would be at your own expense, and can be purchased on
arrival to Istanbul (ask your group leader to assist).
Day 14. Arrive Istanbul. Ferry along the coastline. Free afternoon.
Upon arrival in Istanbul's Asian shore in the
early morning, we take a ferry across the waterways and take in the city's
incredible skyline. This is a great time to do some shopping in the famous
Grand Bazaar. Your day is free to spend how you wish. There is so much to offer
in this incredible world capital. Your leader will help to organise any
arrangements or give ideas to see parts of the city off the tourist trail.
This evening we dine together in a special location on delicious local cuisine
and reminisce about our unforgettable journey through this land of diversity
and culture.
Day 15. Depart Istanbul.
As there are no activities planned, you are free to depart any time. (B)
Trip Details
Joining arrangements and transfers
Your tour starts at the joining hotel in Istanbul on day 1. Details of which will be sent a few weeks prior to departure. Airport transfers are included in the tour price on the first day of the tour only from Ataturk Istanbul Airport. Please contact the office with your flight details prior to your departure. If you are extending your tour, you can get an official taxi from Istanbul Airport to the joining hotel for approximately 30TRY (12GBP). If you would prefer
to pre-arrange a transfer with us, please enquire on the phone or book via the
website.
Services included
Walking
tour in Istanbul led by your group leader, Goreme Open Air Museum tour with
local guide, walk through the Cappadocian Valley with local guide, dinner at a
local Cappadocian family house, traditional Turkish boat cruise (gulet) over
Sunken City, hike the Lycian Way to Oludeniz beach, Pamukkale rock terraces, cooking
demonstration of local Turkish delicacy, guided tour of Ephesus, visit to
village of Sirince for fruit wine tasting, arrival airport transfer, meals as specified above.
Services not included
International flights, travel insurance, departure airport
transfers, meals as specified above, miscellaneous personal expenses – drinks,
souvenirs, etc
Spending money
Every
traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary.
Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to
purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits
when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Allow 300EUR for
meals not included. The local currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
ATMs are found within main cities in Turkey. Euros, British Pounds and US
Dollars are easy to exchange into Turkish Lira. Please note - while you should
bring some cash with you for emergency situations, carrying cash only is a high
safety risk. Money on ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix. Travellers'
cheques can be tricky, timely and expensive to exchange. Credit cards are in
general not very useful in Turkey - they can be used at some larger stores if
shopping for big items such as carpets.
Food
Breakfasts in hotels will usually consist of fresh baked bread,
butter, jam and/or honey, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, cheese, yogurt,
preserved meat, fruit juice, eggs, and tea or coffee. This is most often set
out as a buffet. Meals in restaurants vary, but typically main courses range
from simple grilled meats to elaborately baked fish and meat casseroles. There
are also plenty of delicious vegetarian options. Desserts are also important in
Turkey, including the famous baklava, which is layered filo pastry, stuffed with almond paste or pistachios steeped in syrup.
Single Room Supplement
You
may be able to pay an additional supplement to have your own room on tour.
Subject to availability the single room supplement includes all group hotel
nights except the overnight train and bus.
General Information
Group Size and Trip Status
For each of our group adventures, there is a minimum number of participants
required to enable the trip to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached,
the trip status will change to 'Guaranteed Departure'. You can check the trip
status on our website. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not
cancel a trip once it has achieved this ‘Guaranteed Departure’ status. If you
are unsure about the trip status, please call our office.
Language
Turkish is part of the Altaic family of languages and is widely
spoken across much of central Asia, with true ‘standard’ Turkish spoken in
Turkey itself. In tourist regions of Turkey, English is widely spoken, though
not by everyone. In remote regions, English is less widely used so we recommend
you try to learn some simple Turkish phrases and greetings. Attempts to speak
in the local language will always be appreciated and is all part of the fun. We
recommended basic phrase books such as Berlitz and Lonely Planet.
Climate
Daytime
temperatures in Turkey will vary between 22ºC/72ºF and 28ºC/82ºF at the times of year we operate this trip. The weather in early and late summer is generally excellent - with hot days, clear skies and little rain. The best time of year to visit the Lycian Coast is in April, May and October (summer is too hot). We can expect daytime temperatures to range between 20ºC and 25ºC/68ºF and 77ºF, dropping at night to 15ºC/60ºF. This part of Turkey enjoys one of the most favourable climates in the Mediterranean with 300 sunshine days a year. However, short-lived storms (sometimes with thunder and heavy rain) can occur.
Visa requirements
A passport with 6 months remaining validity is required. Visas are
required by nationals of the USA, UK, Australia, and most EC countries. These
can be obtained at the airport in Istanbul on arrival.
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required for this trip. UK residents
should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travelling.