Travel blog

Turkey’s Hidden Gems: From Lakeside Escapes to Mountain Views

2.9min read

Published 11 October 2024

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

When you think of Turkey, what comes to mind? Bustling bazaars, Istanbul’s famous mosques, and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, right? While those are amazing, there's so much more to discover if you venture off the beaten path.

Here are just a few!

In this blog

The Village of Amasra

Amasra, a charming village on the Black Sea coast, is full of narrow, cobblestoned streets and local markets. This town is perfect for those who love to immerse themselves in local culture. It’s gorgeous and photogenic, with old stone houses, plenty of locals going about their daily lives, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste, thanks to the harbour delivering fresh wares regularly. For a dose of history, stop by the Amasra Museum and check out the collection of Byzantine artifacts.

Majestic Mount Nemrut

Mountains probably don’t top your list when you think of sights to see in Turkey. But in the Adiyaman Province, you'll find the awe-inspiring Mount Nemrut. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its summit, where colossal statues and the tomb of King Antiochus stand guard. The sight of these statues against the backdrop of a sunrise or sunset is nothing short of magical. It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views and the site’s historical significance make it worth every step. Pack your walking shoes – you won’t regret making the effort.

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Turkey’s Largest Lake

Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey, is a serene escape – sort of like the ones you imagine coming complete with a lakeside cabin in the Canadian forests. At a size of 3,755 square kilometres, it truly is huge. You’d be forgiven for thinking you were at the sea! Its high salinity means it rarely freezes, even in winter, and it supports unique species like the Pearl Mullet fish. A highlight here is a boat trip to Akdamar Island, where you can visit the beautifully preserved 10th-century Akdamar Church. The island's peaceful environment, combined with the beautiful architecture of the old church, makes for a truly special experience.

Ancient City of Ani

Close to the Armenian border lies the ancient city of Ani, a hauntingly beautiful site that was once a bustling metropolis during the medieval period. Known as the "City of 1001 Churches," Ani flourished between the 10th and 11th centuries and was a major hub of commerce and culture. Now, it’s a sprawling archaeological site filled with the ruins of cathedrals (plenty of them!), mosques, and city walls. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts who want to step back in time and explore the remnants of a once-great city.

The Cliffside Sumela Monastery

High up in the Pontic Mountains, the Sumela Monastery clings dramatically to a cliffside 1200 metres up in the air. This Byzantine monastery, founded in the 4th century, is an architectural marvel is not only an architectural marvel but also a spiritual haven. Visiting it requires a bit of a hike, through a fairly steep and uneven path, but the journey is well worth it. Once you’re up there, you’re rewarded with views over the Altindere Valley and a powerful sense of tranquillity from the monastery itself.

Pamukkale: The Cotton Castle

Pamukkale, or the Cotton Castle, is one of Turkey’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Located in the Denizli Province in southwestern Turkey, it features dazzling white travertine terraces formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate from the hot springs that flow over the landscape. The result is bright white terraces and mineral-rich pools in blue, turquoise, and sea green hues. Together, they create a surreal but incredibly beautiful landscape, resembling cascading cotton or snow-covered cliffs, which is how Pamukkale earned its name. While you’re there, take your shoes off and walk on the terraces to feel the soft, chalky deposits underfoot while wading through the warm pools. Take your time there - the water is said to have healing properties!

Cultural Riches of Safranbolu

Safranbolu is an Ottoman town in the Black Sea region of Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved traditional houses and vibrant local markets, especially known for the spice saffron. The town is a perfect example of Ottoman architecture from centuries back, with their whitewashed facades, wooden balconies, and red-tiled roofs. Go here to stack up on genuine saffron, and to spend some time wandering the alleyways and imagining what life must have been like during the Ottoman reign.

Exploring Antalya's Hidden Corners

We know, Antalya isn’t a hidden gem! But while it gets plenty of attention thanks to its stunning beaches, there's much more to discover in its hidden corners. From the Duden Waterfalls to the ancient ruins of Termessos, Antalya offers a variety of adventures for nature lovers and history buffs. Hiking the trails of Mount Taurus or exploring lesser-known archaeological sites will give you a deeper appreciation for this beautiful region. And you can still finish off your trip with a couple of days on the beaches, if you want!

Practical Tips for Exploring Turkey's Hidden Gems

If you’re looking to go off the beaten track, you’ll need to plan properly in advance.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Transportation: Renting a car offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Guided Tours: Opting for guided tours can provide valuable insights into historical and cultural sites, and help you get to hard-to-access sites as well.
Accommodation: Stay in local guesthouses or boutique hotels for an authentic experience. Flight Centre will help you find accommodation you’ll love.

Ready to uncover Turkey’s hidden gems? Book your Turkey holiday package today and start your adventure.

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Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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