Ihlara Valley, Guzelyurt

Explore the cave churches decorated with historic frescoes in Ihlara Valley. Located near two of the region's three volcanoes, the valley was formed by the Melendiz River thousands of years ago, and is dotted with small villages and populated by a range of wildlife including lizards, butterflies, eagles, lambs, and sheep. Approximately 80,000 people once lived in the valley, which has four entrances. The first entrance is located at the village that marks the start of the road through the valley. The second--and most popular--entrance opens to the fourth km (2.5 miles in) of the valley and has more than 300 steps leading down into it, as well as a visitor center, parking lot, ticket booth, restrooms, and restaurant. The third entrance is through Belisirma village and is the only way to access the valley by car, and the fourth entrance is at the end of the valley near the local monastery. Note that to learn more about the specific history of the cave churches and other parts of the valley, it is best to go on a guided tour or a trekking tour, both of which can be booked at the visitor center, or prior to your arrival at the site. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Ihlara Valley by using our Guzelyurt road trip planning website.