Heart of Turkey — Cappadocia: A Journey from the Coast to the Wonders of Anatolia

~1314 km, 10 days

Starting point: from Antalya to the shores of Side

Your motorhome journey through Turkey begins in Antalya, a popular resort city on the Mediterranean coast. Here you’ll pick up your campervan, receive a full briefing, and have the chance to stock up on groceries and travel essentials at one of the many supermarkets in town.

Once the preparations are complete, you’ll head east toward the ancient city of Side. This first short drive along the coast is a great opportunity to get used to handling the motorhome while enjoying the scenic views of the Turkish Riviera. Upon arrival, if time and energy allow, you can take a short walk through the historic part of Side to see the famous Apollon Temple or the Side Ancient City theatre. Overnight stay is planned at one of the coastal campgrounds near Side — a perfect spot to relax after the drive and enjoy dinner outdoors if you like.

Attractions

Apollon Temple

Located at the edge of the peninsula right by the sea, the Apollon Temple is one of the most photographed spots in Side. Five tall marble columns with Corinthian capitals remain from the ancient temple dedicated to the god of light, Apollo. It is believed that Cleopatra and Mark Antony once met here. The ruins are especially stunning in the glow of the setting sun.

Side Ancient Theatre

One of the best-preserved and largest Roman-era theatres in Anatolia, it was designed to hold around 15,000–20,000 spectators. Uniquely, it was built on flat ground rather than into a hillside, as was typical, and is supported by massive arched structures. You can climb to the upper rows for a view of the stage, the ruins of the ancient city, and the sea. In its time, the theatre hosted not only dramatic performances but also gladiator fights.

From the coast of Side to the ancient fortress of Anamur

After breakfast, you’ll leave the Side area and continue your journey east along the Mediterranean coast. Today’s destination is the town of Anamur. Along the way, a stop is planned at the Manavgat Waterfall, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the cool, refreshing atmosphere.

The drive continues with beautiful, ever-changing coastal scenery. By evening, you’ll arrive in Anamur, where the main highlight awaits — the Mamure Castle. Visiting the fortress at sunset makes for an especially memorable experience. Overnight stay is planned at a seaside campsite located near the castle.

Attractions

Manavgat Waterfall

This is not a very tall but rather wide waterfall on the Manavgat River, known for its power and scenic surroundings. The water cascades down several meters, creating a rushing flow. A park area surrounds the falls, offering pleasant walking paths, shaded spots to relax under the trees, and views of the river’s current. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals to unwind and enjoy a picnic.

Mamure Castle (Anamur)

One of the best-preserved and most impressive medieval fortresses on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, Mamure Castle stands right by the sea. With a rich and layered history, the fortress was built and rebuilt over centuries by Romans, Byzantines, Armenian rulers of Cilicia, Crusaders, Seljuks, and Ottomans. The structure is striking, with its massive walls, 39 towers and bastions, and a surrounding moat. You can walk along the walls, explore the inner courtyards, and imagine the vibrant life that once thrived here centuries ago. The castle has also been featured in many historical film productions.

Cave wonders: from Anamur to the coast of Silifke

You’ll leave Anamur and continue your journey east toward the Mersin region. Most of the drive today follows the coastline before turning slightly inland to reach some of the area’s fascinating cave attractions. The first stop on your route is Asthma Cave, known for its unique microclimate and the still, mirror-like surface of its inner lake.

Just nearby are two other famous natural landmarks — the Heaven and Hell Caves (Cennet–Cehennem Mağaraları). In the Heaven Cave, you’ll also find the ruins of an ancient monastery. In the evening, you’ll head to a nearby campsite for an overnight stay near the town of Silifke.

Attractions

Asthma Cave

This cave is also known as the “Cave of Wishes” or “Asthma Cave.” It is believed that the air inside has beneficial properties for people with respiratory conditions. Inside, you’ll find numerous stalactites and stalagmites that are millions of years old, some forming fascinating natural shapes. One of the cave’s notable features is its high humidity and relatively stable temperature. Some sources also mention a small “mirror lake” inside, whose surface can appear perfectly still.

Heaven Cave (Cennet Cave)

Heaven Cave is a massive sinkhole formed by the collapse of a karst cave’s ceiling. To reach the bottom, visitors descend a long staircase with over 400 steps. The sinkhole has its own microclimate, with lush vegetation thriving inside. At the lowest point, you’ll find the ruins of a small church or monastery, built in the 5th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. According to legend, this is where Zeus imprisoned the monster Typhon.

Hell Cave (Cehennem Cave)

Located right next to Heaven Cave, Hell Cave is also a deep karst sinkhole, but smaller in size and with sheer vertical walls. Unlike its neighbor, descending to the bottom is impossible without special equipment and is considered dangerous, so visitors view it from a designated observation platform at the top. The sinkhole is about 120 meters deep. It earned its name “Hell” due to its dark, ominous appearance and difficult access.

Road to a fairytale: heading to Cappadocia

Today is dedicated to the journey from the Silifke region to the heart of Turkey — the enchanting region of Cappadocia. After breakfast, you’ll begin the long drive inland toward the town of Göreme, which will serve as your base for exploring this one-of-a-kind destination. The route takes you through a variety of landscapes, gradually shifting from coastal views to steppe and mountain scenery.

Upon arrival in Göreme, you’ll check in at one of the local campgrounds, many of which offer views of the region’s famous valleys. If there’s still daylight and energy left after the drive, you can take a short walk around this extraordinary town, partly carved right into the rock formations.

Attractions

Cappadocia

This vast historical region in central Anatolia is famous for its unique, moon-like volcanic landscape. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions covered the area with tuff and basalt, and over time, wind and water erosion sculpted the terrain into whimsical rock formations — cone-shaped pillars known as “fairy chimneys” (or peribacaları), along with colorful canyons and valleys. For centuries, people took advantage of the soft tuff stone to carve out cave dwellings, churches, monasteries, and even entire underground cities, making Cappadocia one of the most extraordinary and fascinating places on Earth.

Göreme

This small town, located in the very heart of Cappadocia, is the region’s main tourist hub. Surrounded by valleys filled with rock formations and cave dwellings — many of which have been converted into hotels, restaurants, and shops — Göreme is the perfect starting point for exploring the area. It offers easy access to the Göreme Open-Air Museum and serves as a launch site for the region’s iconic hot air balloon flights. The town itself is full of charm, with winding streets that weave between the rocks and houses that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.

Fairytale valleys of northern Cappadocia

Today, you’ll begin exploring the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia, focusing on its northern part, known for its most photogenic valleys. After breakfast at the campsite, you’ll set out to visit several iconic locations. You can travel by motorhome or use local tours or taxis for greater convenience on narrower routes.

The day’s itinerary includes a visit to Love Valley, famous for its tall, cone-shaped rock formations. You’ll then head to Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik), where the cliffs are dotted with carved-out dovecotes. Next, you’ll explore Paşabağ (Monks Valley), known for its signature “three-headed” fairy chimneys. The day ends with a visit to the Göreme Open Air Museum, a major site featuring cave churches with well-preserved frescoes. Overnight stay will once again be in a campsite in the Göreme area.

Attractions

Love Valley

This valley earned its unofficial name thanks to its tall (20–30 meters) phallic-shaped rock formations, naturally sculpted by the erosion of volcanic tuff. Stretching several kilometers, Love Valley offers excellent opportunities for hiking among these unusual stone pillars. Several viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Pigeon Valley

The valley gets its name from the numerous dovecotes carved into the cliffs by locals over the centuries. Pigeons were raised here not only for food but also for their droppings, which were used as valuable fertilizer for vineyards. Stretching between Göreme and Uçhisar, Pigeon Valley is a popular trekking destination. Along the way, you’ll find rock tunnels, small cave dwellings, and, of course, the many dovecotes that decorate the valley walls.

Paşabağ Valley (Monks Valley)

This is one of Cappadocia’s most iconic sites, famous for its unique rock pillars topped with basalt “caps” that resemble giant mushrooms. Some of these fairy chimneys have two or even three “heads.” In ancient times, hermit monks carved out cells and chapels inside the formations — one of which, dedicated to Saint Simeon, is open to visitors. The area is incredibly photogenic and offers an up-close look at these fascinating natural sculptures.

Göreme Open Air Museum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Göreme Open Air Museum is a vast monastic complex carved into the rocks, featuring churches, chapels, and dining halls dating from the 10th to 13th centuries. Inside many of the churches — such as the Dark Church, Apple Church, and Snake Church — you’ll find remarkably well-preserved frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible. The museum offers a vivid insight into the religious life and art of the Byzantine era in Cappadocia. Allow several hours to explore the entire complex.

Underground secrets and sunsets of Cappadocia

This day in Cappadocia can begin with one of its most unforgettable experiences — a hot air balloon flight at sunrise (note: this activity requires advance booking and depends on weather conditions). After breakfast at the campsite, you’ll head out to explore the region’s underground wonders.

Today’s highlight is a visit to one of Cappadocia’s largest and most famous underground cities — Derinkuyu Underground City. This multi-level subterranean refuge, carved deep into the earth, is impressive in both scale and ingenuity.

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy the natural colors of Cappadocia by heading to the Red Valley (Kızılçukur Valley) to watch the sunset. The valley is especially famous for its rock formations, which glow in vivid red and pink hues as the sun goes down. It’s also a great spot for easy trekking. Overnight stay will once again be at a campsite in the Göreme area.

Attractions

Derinkuyu Underground City

One of the largest and deepest (reaching a depth of around 85 meters) underground cities discovered in Cappadocia to date, Derinkuyu Underground City is believed to have accommodated up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and food supplies. The city features a complex network of tunnels and chambers spread across multiple levels (only part of which is open to visitors). Inside, you can see living quarters, kitchens with ovens, wine cellars, stables, storage rooms, a chapel, and even a missionary school. Ventilation shafts provided fresh air, while massive circular stone doors were used to seal off passages in times of danger. Visiting Derinkuyu gives you a powerful sense of how people once lived and sought refuge in these underground labyrinths.

Red Valley

The Red Valley gets its name from the color of its rocks, which glow in vivid shades of red, pink, and orange — especially during sunset. It’s one of the most popular spots in Cappadocia for evening walks and sunset viewing. Several hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the valley, passing by unusual rock formations, hidden cave churches with frescoes (such as the Uzumlu Kilise or Grape Church), and old dovecotes carved into the cliffs. A walk through Red Valley offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to fully appreciate Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes.

Panoramas, pottery, and the imagination of Cappadocia

Your final day in Cappadocia begins with a visit to one of the region’s best panoramic viewpoints. After breakfast, you’ll head to the impressive Uçhisar Castle, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys.

Next, you’ll make your way to Avanos, a town renowned as the center of Cappadocia’s pottery tradition. Here, you can visit local pottery workshops and even try your hand at this ancient craft. After lunch, you’ll continue to the whimsical Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley), known for its unusual rock formations that resemble animals and fantastical shapes.

In the evening, unwind and relax in one of the region’s traditional Turkish hammams. Overnight stay will once again be in a campsite in the Göreme area.

Attractions

Uçhisar Castle

This is the highest point in Cappadocia — a massive rock formation riddled with tunnels, rooms, and staircases. In the past, this natural citadel served as a defensive stronghold and watchtower. You can climb to the top of Uçhisar Castle (usually for a small fee), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over Göreme, Pigeon Valley, Love Valley, and, on clear days, even the distant Mount Erciyes. At the base of the castle lies the small town of Uçhisar, home to souvenir shops and cozy cafés.

Avanos

This town is located along the banks of Turkey’s longest river, the Kızılırmak (Red River). Avanos is renowned for its centuries-old pottery tradition, thanks to the rich red clay found on the riverbanks — ideal for ceramics. The town is home to many family-run pottery workshops where you can observe the entire process, from kneading the clay to painting and firing, and also purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Some studios even invite visitors to try working on a pottery wheel themselves. While in Avanos, don’t miss a walk across the town’s scenic suspension bridge over the river.

Imagination Valley (Devrent Vadisi)

This valley stands out from other parts of Cappadocia because it contains no cave churches or dwellings. Its main attraction is the surreal rock formations shaped over time by wind and water. As you walk through Imagination Valley (Devrent Vadisi), you’ll see rocks that resemble a camel (the most famous), a dolphin, seals, snakes, a saint, and many other shapes — limited only by your imagination. It’s a perfect spot for photography and leisurely walks that let you fully appreciate the whimsical nature of Cappadocia’s landscapes.

From the fairy tales of Cappadocia to spiritual Konya

Today, you say goodbye to the magical landscapes of Cappadocia and begin your journey to Konya — one of the oldest cities in the world and a significant spiritual center in Turkey. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop and visit the impressive Sultanhanı Caravanserai, a well-preserved example of Seljuk architecture.

Upon arriving in Konya, you’ll explore its most iconic site — the Mevlana Museum, home to the mausoleum of Rumi, the famous poet and founder of the Whirling Dervishes. You’re also encouraged to take a walk through the city’s historic center and visit the Alaaddin Keykubad Mosque, located on the Alaaddin Hill Park. Overnight stay is planned at a campsite in or near Konya.

Attractions

Sultanhanı Caravanserai

One of the largest and best-preserved Seljuk caravanserais in Turkey, built in the 13th century. These grand structures served as fortified inns providing rest and protection for trade caravans traveling along the Silk Road. Sultanhanı impresses with its size, thick walls, richly decorated portal, and inner courtyard featuring a small elevated mosque (kiosk mosque) at its center. A visit to the caravanserai offers a glimpse into what medieval travel and trade routes once looked like.

Mevlana Museum (Mausoleum of Rumi)

This is the main symbol of Konya and one of the most visited landmarks in Turkey. The complex, easily recognizable by its distinctive turquoise dome, was originally a dervish lodge and became the burial place of Rumi (Mevlana) after his death. Today, it houses a museum where visitors can see Rumi’s tomb and those of his followers, ancient Qur’an manuscripts, dervish musical instruments, clothing, and everyday items. The atmosphere of the site is deeply serene and spiritual.

Alaaddin Mosque and Alaaddin Hill

Alaaddin Hill is an artificial mound located in the center of Konya, home to the city’s oldest mosque — the Alaaddin Mosque. Construction of the mosque began in the 12th century under the Seljuk sultans and continued for more than fifty years. Its architecture blends various styles and has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries. Inside the mosque are the tombs of several Seljuk sultans. From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. This is an important historical site that reflects Konya’s past glory as the capital of the Seljuk Sultanate.

From Konya to the tranquil waters of Eğirdir Lake

After breakfast in Konya, you may have a bit of time to take one last look at the city or visit places you didn’t get to see the day before. Then, you’ll begin your journey toward Lake Eğirdir, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Turkey, renowned for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

The drive to the lake will take up most of the day, taking you through the varied landscapes of Central and Southern Anatolia. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into a campsite on the lake’s shore. You can spend the rest of the day relaxing, strolling along the waterfront, and enjoying the views of the still waters and surrounding mountains.

Attractions

Lake Eğirdir

The fourth largest lake in Turkey and the second largest freshwater lake. It is located in the Taurus mountain region at an altitude of about 917 meters above sea level. The lake is notable for being connected to the smaller Lake Kovada by a narrow natural channel. There are two islands on Lake Eğirdir that are connected to the mainland by a causeway: Can Island (Island of Life) and Yeşilada (Green Island), where you can still find old Greek houses and the Church of St. Stephen. The lake is known for its clean waters, which change color depending on the time of day and weather—earning it the nickname “Seven-colored Lake.”

Eğirdir town

A small town that gave its name to the lake, located on its southern shore. Historically, the town was an important stop along trade routes. In Eğirdir, you can see the ruins of an old fortress, believed to have been originally built in antiquity and later rebuilt by the Seljuks. Also of interest are the Hızır Bey Mosque and the Dündar Bey Madrasa. The town serves as a convenient base for exploring the lake and its surroundings, with cafés, restaurants, and shops available.

Farewell to the lake and return to Antalya

Today is the final day of your motorhome journey through Turkey. After breakfast by the shores of Lake Eğirdir, you’ll have time to pack at a relaxed pace and perhaps enjoy one last short walk to take in the morning freshness and lake views.
Then, you’ll begin the drive back to Antalya. The road will take several hours, giving you a chance to once again admire Turkey’s diverse landscapes. Upon arrival, you’ll return the motorhome, bringing your adventure to a close.