Fairy Chimneys are the world famous formations of Cappadocia. The outstanding landscape, natural beauties, rock-cut houses, caves, the picturesque valleys, scenic lunar hills and many more popular spots of Cappadocia are full of these unusual and amazing formations.
What are Fairy Chimneys?
The secret of Cappadocia is hidden with the geographical formations dating back to 60 million years. The smooth layers formed by the lava and ashes spewed out from the Mount Erciyes, Mount Hasan and Mount Gulludag has become rocky formations first and than corroded with the rain and wind for million years and finally showed up today’s geographic formations.
Today’s formations in Cappadocia that can easily be carved, so called “fairy chimneys” by locals, allow the inhabitants make rock-cut cave houses and underground cities and has become a real shelter during the repressive eras.
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Where to See? Popular Fairy Chimneys Areas
Fairy chimneys can be visited and experienced mostly at the beautiful valleys and panoramic viewpoints in and around Cappadocia. Also hot air balloon tours in Cappadocia offers a great fairy chimneys experience on air.
Majority of the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia are located at the Goreme National Park. The National Park is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list since 1985.
Goreme National Park hosts the majority of the valleys with fairy chimneys in the region. Almost each beautiful valleys here are named after the shapes of the fairy chimney formations they host.
Walk in the Valleys | See the Fairy Chimneys
Cappadocia is also a heaven for nature lovers. With its winding valleys, moonlike landscape, and mystical chimneys, Cappadocia might be the most surreal place on earth. Whether you’re there to explore the unique rock formations up close, or just to take in the majestic views from afar, it’s a must-see destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. During each season, the valleys change color and offer something spectacular for those who visit. Cappadocia valleys host about all the popular sights of Cappadocia.
In some valleys you can find waterfalls, while in others there will be fresh fruit such as plums or apricots. In Winter, the valleys are covered with snow which makes for a truly mystical scene! The valleys are also the places where you can see historical churches carved into the rock, distinctive homes, and visit active Turkish villages. We recommend that you visit the following valleys on your journey:
- Pasabag (Monks) Valley,
- Zelve Valley Open Air Museum,
- Devrent Imagination Valley,
- Pigeon Valley,
- Love Valley,
- Red Valley,
- Rose Valley,
- Swords Valley.
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If you don’t have much time in Cappadocia and unable to visit and see all those fairy chimneys, than we recommend you to visit Pasabag (Monks) Valley, Red and Rose Valleys to experience the fairy chimneys ambiance.
Pasabag (Monks) Valley
- Fairy chimneys, seclusion place for the Monks, three capped fairy chimney where Saint Simeon lived
Pasabag Valley, also known as “Monks Valley” is one of the most popular fairy chimneys areas of Cappadocia. The valley is situated between Avanos and Goreme.
Those who come visit Cappadocia mostly go to Pasabag Valley to see the best fairy chimney formations. The formations that once used as a seclusion place for the Monks, are now a very attractive tourist zone in Cappadocia.
One of the best activities in the valley is to enjoy the nature and unique beauties by walking among the fairy chimneys. The valley, which was used as a retreat by the priests and monks during its period, includes many rock-cut monasteries, churches, chapels and settlements, as well as tunnels and mills.
Read more about Pasabag Monks Valley
Red Valley
- Red colored formations, Fairy chimneys, one of the best places to watch the sunset, observation terrace, hiking
Red Valley (Kizilcukur) is one of the best places to watch the sunrise and sunset in Cappadocia. The valley is located in the middle of Goreme National Park named after the red colored tuff rocks and fairy chimneys spread through the valley.
Red Valley has such a beautiful landscape in a dreamy crimson color that attracts its visitors. We can say that it is the most beautiful valley of Cappadocia.
The 5 km. hiking track makes Red Valley a popular hiking area in Cappadocia. It is an ideal area and activity for hiking lovers. For walking out the whole valley, you’ll need about 1-2 hours. The walking trail will lead you to the famous Cavusin Village.
You’ll experience Cappadocia from a different perspective by viewing its lovely hills and fairy chimneys from the ground level. There is also a lovely observation terrace.
Rose Valley
- Best place to see the fairy chimney formations, Three Cross Church, Ayvali Church, ATV quad safari, 4×4 off-road safari, hiking
Rose Valley (Gulludere) is located near Goreme. and the valley is one of the best places to see the fairy chimney formations in Cappadocia. And that makes Rose Valley a popular hiking route in Cappadocia for nature lovers.
As in other valleys of Cappadocia, here you’ll find many churches, monasteries and shelter areas carved into the rocks. Travelers may see variety of lovely churches and chapels along the valley.
Rose Valley is also home to the best trekking and hiking trails in the Cappadocia region. Rose Valley has about 4 km. hiking track and the valley is only accessible by foot. You will see many pigeons while walking in the valley.
Panoramic Viewpoints
Or you may go to one of the panoramic viewpoints and see all those fairy chimneys like in a canvas. The top best panoramic views of Cappadocia can be watched at the;
- Goreme Viewpoint (Esentepe)
- Red Valley (Kizilcukur) Viewpoint
- Lovers Hill Viewpoint
- Goreme Open Air Museum Viewpoint
- Uchisar Castle Viewpoint
- Ortahisar Castle Viewpoint
- Urgup Wish Hill Viewpoint
Hot Air Balloon Ride to witness Fairy Chimneys from sky
No visit to Cappadocia would be complete without a ride in the hot balloons! Watching more than 150 balloons taking off at sunrise will be a unique scene you’ll never forget.
One of the most popular things to do in Cappadocia is to catch the view from above in the colorful hot air balloons. Take fantastic pictures of the valleys and fairy chimney’s from above, enjoying the spectacular landscape, fresh air, and clouds! The balloon tours are famous for creating the special romantic moment, perfect for marriage proposals or honeymoon gift.
When you decide to take your place in that beauty, no matter which company you choose, ensure to make a reservation for your balloon ride. There are plenty of on-site/online companies that can guide you through.
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