I guess it's unique, the strange rock formations and subterranean dwellings of Cappadocia provide unforgettable sets of experiences, memories and photographs. Any time of the year is beautiful here whether you're hiking the Ilhara valley in the spring sun or exploring a landscape that defies description when the snows of winter come. The towns of Avanos and Nevsehir and the three villages of Goreme, Urgup and Uchisar are all good bases for exploring this region and although a lot of people have come and gone in a weekend this area really repays the investment of a few extra days. Accommodation and food are cheap (as is the locally produced wine) and many people, especially backpackers, enjoy the laid back and friendly atmosphere that prevails. You can walk, cycle, taxi or even bus it around this area and a plethora of agencies will offer you guided tours. Highlights might include the annual wine festival or a balloon trip across the famous fairy chimneys and valleys.

The links from this page will tell you a lot more about the region but to sum up what you've got is a landscape produced by long term erosion of volcanic deposits. The landscape is the key to just about everything else about the place. The softness of the material forming the hills and valleys has encouraged people to dig. The security offered by the nature of the dwellings combined with the remoteness of this region made it an obvious place of refuge for those escaping persecution or seeking isolation for its own sake. This aspect of Cappadocia is what draws people interested in the history of Christianity. So, a volcano, some digging, and people looking for somewhere to lay low for a while , all complemented by the work of nature, have made Cappadocia what it is today. Sadly what it is today isn't quite what it was yesterday and, although belated preservation work is being carried out, it seems inevitable that much of the areas charm will be simply washed away.