Our hotel manager took us on a hike through the Rose Canyon. He grew up in Goreme and had led tours around the area for many years. In addition to explaining our surroundings, he shared aspects of the local culture as well.
Getting up at 5AM allows you to enjoy quite a long day. After returning to the hotel, we wandered off on our own to find and hike the Pigeon Valley trail, which started in Goreme and ended in Uchisar about 5km away. The trail took us up a valley through a couple of tunnels, along a creek bed, and eventually up the valley wall. We paused at a point about halfway between Goreme and Uchisar. Right then, it was time for the midday call to prayer from the mosques. Being halfway between the towns and in a canyon, the prayer call echoed all around us. It was rather surreal. The hike was a big hit.
The highest point in the area is topped by Uchisar Castle. We hiked to the top and enjoyed the view with a guy from Tennessee.
The next part of the day we'll just call a less than wise decision and leave it at that. Eventually we found ourselves in the city of Nevsehir, where we ate dinner and rode the bus back to Goreme. A long but thrilling day!
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