CAPPADOCIAN NATURE SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

CAPPADOCIAN NATURE SPORTS AND ACTIVITIES

Popular outdoor activities in Cappadocia include valley hiking, hot air ballooning, horseback safaris, mountain biking and cross golf, a more environmentally sensitive version of regular golf. The valleys of Güllüdere (Rose Valley) I and II, Kızılçukur (Red Valley), Meskendir, Gomeda-Üzengi, Ak Valley-Bağlıdere, some of the best known of Cappadocia, offer the best trails for hiking. Along these trails, one can wonder through rock-hewn churches, fairy chimneys and dovecotes. Hikers also can discover and familiarize themselves with the local fauna and flora.
Hot air balloon flights offer a unique vantage point to view the extraordinary geological formations of Cappadocia. Flights are offered throughout the year, weather and wind permitting. Horseback safaris are offered in all the valleys of Göreme National Park and provide another way to become close to nature in Cappadocia. Riders not only can enjoy the natural beauty of the valleys but also educate themselves about the region’s folklore and traditions while traveling the old village roads. Mountain bikers are attracted by the many valleys that are perfectly suited to this sport. The region hosts an annual international mountain biking festival in June.
Cross golf has been recently introduced to Cappadocia. Since the region is listed as UNESCO World Heritage site, organizers of cross golf and mountain biking are keenly aware of their responsibility not to damage the natural surroundings. Although cross golfing may be less popular elsewhere in the world, the sport has caught on in Cappadocia as a new alternative outdoor activity.