Nestled about 40 km southeast of Nevşehir in Kayseri Province, Soğanlı Valley is a pair of serene canyons—Upper and Lower—carved into the Cappadocian tuff. Once home to Byzantine monks between the 9th–13th centuries, it boasts roughly 100 rock‑cut churches (including Yılanlı, Karabaş & Tahtalı) adorned with frescoes, along with distinctive dovecotes and ancient pigeon-houses. Unlike crowded Göreme, Soğanlı offers tranquil hiking through apricot groves, traditional Turkish village life, and rich historical ambiance.
Why Visit:
- Explore hidden churches and frescoes without the crowds
- Wander scenic trails among fairy chimneys, dovecotes & apricot trees
- Experience authentic village culture: hand‑made rag dolls, local food & farming traditions
Best Time to Visit:
Ideal in spring (April–June) and autumn (Sept–Nov) when the weather is mild and photography is at its finest.
