On the Aegean coast in Turkey, between Selçuk and Kusadasi, is found one of the principal ancient sites of Asia Minor: that of Ephesus, which still has many ancient Greek and Roman remains today. Unfortunately, of the previously grand wonder of the world, you will only be able to admire a few fragments of columns...

The ancient site of Ephesus, from one temple to another

A cosmopolitan district of Istanbul, Kadiköy is one of the most lively areas of the mega-city. An authentic atmosphere blending modern impulses with its young population thrilling the old warriors looking to merge into the crowds.

Authentic promenade in the districts of Kadiköy

Hasankeyf is in south-eastern Turkey, a very small city containing numerous natural and human wonders. Associated with a rich, ancient history, the diverse geological and archaeological particularities definitely make this village a place to visit. You must visit Hasankeyf as quickly as possible, because a dam project will soon completely cover this little gem.

Hasankeyf, ephemeral splendour.

Classed under World Heritage by Unesco for its numerous Ottoman houses, Safranbolu has conserved the charm of its old cities. Famous for its saffron, it is pleasant to wander its paved streets, to admire its aqueduct or to go and explore the caves of Bulak, nearby.

Safranbolu, the saffron city

Izmir

Bergama

Selçuk

Ephesus

The Çat Valley is one of the least visited in Cappadocia. Though largely arboricultural and agricultural, it nevertheless contains some beautiful badlands and fairy chimneys. It is also the site of some of the region's most beautiful cave dovecotes.

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One of the Cappadocian valleys I walked through was that of Çat. Because it is far from being one of the best-known valleys, it does not attract hordes of walkers.
This is basically due to the fact that In the Çat Valley, fairy chimneys (a type of tall, thin rock formation), eroded tuff formations and other types of badlands are less in evidence than they are in the better known valleys, such as Kizil Çukurand Güllüdere. This did not prevent me from enjoying the walk however. Firstly, this valley is especially arboricultural and pastoral in appearance. Cows and apricot trees are what populate it, and the local herdsmen are less used to seeing hikers here than they are elsewhere.
Furthermore, the Çat Valley does in fact contain some beautiful rock formations, in particular an evocative group of voluptuous fairy chimneys; it's simply that there are fewer of these than in the other valleys. Additionally, the dovecotes here are also quite fascinating. The valley finally takes you to Açiksaraym, with its 9th century ruined church: a very picturesque site.

The Çat Valley is one of the least visited in Cappadocia. Though largely arboricultural and agricultural, it nevertheless contains some beautiful badlands and fairy chimneys. It is also the site of some of the region's most beautiful cave dovecotes.

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