Hiking trails through pink and red rock, glowing at sunset.
Address: Kızılçukur (Red Valley), near Çavuşin, 50180 Göreme/Nevşehir
The Red Valley (Kızılçukur) and the Rose Valley (Güllüdere) owe their colours to layers of volcanic tuff rich in iron and minerals, which glow pink, red and gold as the sun goes down.
Hidden in the valleys are rock-cut churches such as the Church of the Cross (Haçlı Kilise) and the Church of the Columns, with carved ceilings and old frescoes, once part of monastic settlements.
Spring and autumn for hiking.
The last two hours before sunset.
Hike in the morning or late afternoon; there is little shade.
Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.
Moderate; trails are mostly gentle but sandy and sometimes narrow.
No, the valleys are free; the sunset viewpoint may have a small café charge.
Yes, at sunrise balloons often float over these valleys.
