Valley Peaks and Rivers: 7 days, 6 nights: 2 nights hotel, 4 nights camping

 

This six night itinerary has the first and last night staying at a hotel near to the riding centre. You set off the first morning on a five day trail ride, camping for four nights before arriving back to a hotel near the riding centre for a last night.

 

Day 1

Arrival at Nevsehir or Kayseri Airport. Transfer and check in at the Canela Hotel in Cavusin. It’s a short drive (10 minutes) to the riding centre to meet the horses and have a briefing on the week ahead. Have dinner at the riding centre. Overnight at Canela Hotel.

 

Day 2

Ride from Avanos through the stunning Dereyamanli valley to Uchisar for lunch beneath the town's impressive rock fortress. After lunch continue on to Ibrahimpasa, an old village boasting with exquisite Greek architecture and continue through the Balkan Deresi valley to Kavak where you will camp for the night. (riding time 5 hours)

 

Day 3

Ride through the village of Bahceli where the hills have been carved like beehives to Ayvali, a quiet town in the midst of lush apricot groves then on to Lake Damsabaraji for a picnic lunch. If the weather is warm, you can take a dip with the horses in the lake. Overnight camping just outside the charming village of Cemil. (riding time 5 hours)

 

Day 4

In the morning enjoy a visit to a beautiful 11th century monastery then traverse through valleys filled with Cappadocia's famed fairy chimneys. Ride to the village of Taskinpasa to visit the 14th century mosque then on to Karain for a peaceful night camping by a picturesque fountain. (riding time 5 hours)

 

Day 5

Ride up to the Akkoy plateau for a breathtaking view then on to Sofular for lunch. Following the ancient 13th century caravan route - the Uzun Yol (long road) - you will make your way towards tonight's campsite on the banks of the Kizilirmak, Turkey's longest river. Those who feel adventurous can try their hand at fishing Turkish style tonight. (riding time 5-6 hours)

 

Day 6

Ride to Sarihidir, a tiny fishing village on the Red River for lunch. Upon return to Avanos, if you'd like you can visit a local pottery factory to enjoy the art form for which this town has been well known since the time of the Hittites. Final dinner at Akhal Teke Riding Center or a restaurant in Avanos, overnight at the Canela Hotel in Cavusin. (riding time 4 hours)

 

Day 7

Breakfast at the Canela Hotel. Transfer to Kayseri or Nevsehir for departure flights.