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Source: Gorp.com

Walk the Ihlara Gorge

Turkey's Top 20 Adventures

Imagine a canyon with soaring, rocky walls and a stream running along its bottom. Picture fat-tailed sheep panting in the sun and women plucking apricots from the trees. That's the idyllic Ihlara Gorge, near Aksaray, and anyone who's reasonably fit can walk its ten-mile length in one day. Bring a picnic or stop off at the outdoor restaurants midway along the gorge. Before entering the gorge, take a look at the ruined monastery at Selime and look for rock-cut churches along the valley floor. Camping inside the gorge is a real treat. If you plan on traveling here on public transportation, be prepared for a long journey.