If you talk to anyone who has been to Cappadocia in Turkey, I guarantee one of main points you will take away from the conversation is the incredibly unique landscape that is found in the region.

Heck, if you’ve read any of my other posts in this series I’m doing on Cappadocia, I’m pretty sure you will soon notice the multiple times I have mentioned it myself! All my posts on Cappadocia have, in one way or another had something to do with the unique cultures, buildings and customs that have evolved from the relationship between the local inhabitants and the surrounding landscape found here.

The view over Pigeon Valley towards Uchisar Castle

Believe the hype!

Of all the incredible sights I got to see while visiting this part of Turkey, there is no place that amplifies this unique relationship between man and land better than that on show at Pigeon Valley.

Situated about 5km from the local accommodation hub of Goreme, Pigeon Valley is crowned by the areas highest point, Uchisar.

Over time, the local population of the region has carved rooms and living quarters throughout the mountain, lending to become known as the Uchisar Castle. It baffles the mind how intricate the internal system of rooms, hallways and stairs must be inside the mountain. The entire complex is an above ground version of the various underground cities in the area that it connects to, such as that of Derinkuyu.

The “Pot Plant” viewing platform with Uchisar Castle in the background.

Pigeon Hollows can be seen in the rock formations here.

So why is the area referred to as Pigeon Valley? Over the years, local farmers have constructed pigeon hollows through out the valley, used to attract and house pigeons. At different times of the year, local farmers would then go through and clear out the pigeon hollows, collecting the pigeon droppings to use as fertiliser on their farms, orchards and vineyards.

The change in rock colours and formations allow for great some great trekking through this scenery. One of the most popular paths runs between Goreme and Uchisar and takes around 2 hours to complete. There are plenty of minibuses that run between Uchisar and Goreme so if you don’t want to make it a round trip you assured to find a vehicle that will be able to get you back to your hostel.

A closer look at the carvings found on Uchisar Castle

Another popular viewing point of Uchisar Castle

Having the chance to gaze over Pigeon Valley and take in the marvel of such incredible wonders like Urhisar Castle are to me the biggest draw card of Cappadocia. Those speechless moments are a great part of travel and this part of Cappadocia is just another one of those moments to add to a massive list!

Uchisar Castle

 ____________________

Have you been to Pigeon Valley in Turkey? If not what about another part of the world where the landscape was the highlight? Let me know below in the comments – Ash.