Turkey

Our adventure starts in Istanbul, the city with its heart in two continents; it is a vibrant and welcoming place with much to offer.Departing from Istanbul we head for Gallipoli, where we can hope to gain a better understanding of the events which took place in April 1915 and are faced with a solemn reminder on the follies of war.

From left to right

Adam, Ida, Rob, Rinska, Alice, Robin, Darryn, Francis, Tony, Keith, Simon, Becki, Nick and James.

The dog is not part of this years expedition, just a classic phtotbomb!

 Gallipoli.

We will cross the Dardanelles into Asia to see some of the most renowned ruins in Turkey – Troy, with its replica wooden horse & the impressive city of Ephesus – then on for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting in the quaint hillside village of Sirince.

Ephesus

Sirince village.

So many great flavors to choose from.

.Finally in the first week – we will stop off at Pamukkale to marvel at the white cliff with its shelves and pools formed by the flow of calcium rich mineral waters. 

     

Lunch stop by the lake.

A change to have a look around one of the silk road caravansaries.

Ihlara – we’ll set up camp then have the opportunity of a mornings walk through the 

stunning Ihlara gorge.

 Goreme is our next destination where we will enjoy a full day tour of the open air museums, fairy chimneys and underground city. We can also see a traditional carpet demonstration and spend an evening enjoying some typical Turkish entertainment.

On our way to the Turkish cultural night.

Cappadocia is famous for its scenery and with an early start have the option for an altogether different perspective as we soar up into the sky in a hot air balloon, enjoying the beautiful sunrise.

On the road to Nemrut Dagi 

Having spent plenty of time getting to know this captivating area, we now head for Eastern Turkey. We will spend an evening at Nemrut Dagi, watching the dramatic sunset & have time to ponder the giant statues which lie scattered in pieces at the summit. 

                                                                                  

We spend time at Lake Van, the largest in Turkey and travel over to Akdamar Island, where we can visit a well preserved Armenian church from 10th century.

As we reach the end of our time in Turkey, our last campsite gives us a view of Mount Ararat and is conveniently located at the border to Iran. From here we are ready to make our way into modern day Persia.

      

Next stop Iran.