Cappadocian Natural Rock Formations and the Hunt for Camel Rock

Hello family and friends,

We are currently on a bus heading from Cappadocia to Antalya, Turkey. We had some of the best four days in the almost four months of our travels. Cappadocia was like no other place in the world. There were unique things to see around every corner. We walked many miles each day looking forward to what the valleys would have to offer next.

The locals were also very friendly. Every time we were walking on a main road, several cars would stop and the passengers would ask us if we needed a ride without expecting anything in return. Of course we would tell them, "Thanks but our Tevas got this." The offer was very kind nonetheless.

Our only mistake was not staying longer. Please enjoy the following pictures from our jam packed adventure.


Goreme open air museum- churches built into natural rock formations a thousand years ago
















Time to eat- people actually lived and ate meals in these rocks




One of the many painted ceilings- no photos!




Hike through red and rose valleys- about fifteen miles covered this day. The entire hike was filled with rock caverns and churches. You could spend days going in and out of caves. And we were almost completely alone. Others were missing out!




























Watching the balloons at sunrise- pretty magical morning for us. Some people believe Cappadocia is the most beautiful place in the world for ballooning.



















Love Valley- the area was given this name for a reason. Any guesses? Pat?







Uchisar Castle- the very highest point in Cappadocia







Inside the castle




A view from the peak of the castle




Derinkuyu- the biggest underground city in Cappadocia found to date [population up to 10,000 at a time (not currently)] People believe there are many more left to discover. Look there are two inhabitants below.







Dinner in Cavusin- we basically relaxed in someone's home while a meal was prepared for us. It was our favorite dining experience in Cappadocia. The cook/ waiter even helped us with directions, all in Turkish







Also in the village of Cavusin- a beautiful church




Pasabagi Valley- Incredible formations
















This house was constructed by mother nature




The hunt for camel rock- we talked about going to this all four days but it was quite the distance with no public transportation. We considered throwing in the towel, but we persevered and made it to Devrent (imagination) valley. It was titled this way because you can see many different animals and other things take shape in the rocks. We saw a camel, Mother Mary carrying baby Jesus, a hand, and a horse

First, real camel




Rock camel










Mary carrying baby Jesus- Mila thinks this is a stretch




Hand rising out of the ground




Horse




The entire valley




It is sad to say goodbye to Cappadocia, but in the words of philosopher Jay-Z, "onto the next one." See you next time from Antalya.

-Mila and Scott


- Posted around the world from our iPad

Location:426. Sk,Antalya,Turkey