Altunhisar - Kitreli - Ihlara

The character of the Route:

Starting from the Altunhisar district, the birthplace of Aşık Tahiri, one of the 19th-century folk poets, the route follows the paths that preserve the mystery of history. It follows a slightly undulating route to Ulukışla, the transit center of important caravans and crossroads, and starts climbing as soon as it leaves the district. Climbing on this road for 8 km, the route passes between Hasan and Melendiz Volcanoes and descends towards Kitreli, surrounded by greenery. After a short climb, the route, which continues its descent with magnificent views, ends in Ihlara Valley, the famous haunt of Cappadocia.

Notes to Travelers:

• You can enjoy the scenery in the Zindan Mansion, surrounded by small ponds in Altunhisar Zindan Valley, and visit the historical mosque named after Karamanoğlu Yakup Bey, one of the former Turkish Gentlemen.
• You can find local flavors in the pleasant restaurants in Altunhisar.
• You can take a break in the village of Kitreli and swim in the healing waters of the Uyuz Pond, 2,5km south of it, at the foot of the Melendiz Mountain;
• You can eat delicious meals at the restaurants in Ihlara town and relax in the village cafe.
• Make sure you take enough water with you, as you cannot replenish water along the way.
• You can photograph the impressive scenery caused by volcanoes along the way.
• If you want a pleasant walk, you can tour the canyon (Ihlara Valley) surrounding the Melendiz River.

Connected Routes:

Nigde - Bor - Altunhisar;
Altunhisar - Çiftlik - Guzelyurt