Itinerary

Day 1

Turkey Eco Tours

Day 2

Istanbul City Tour
We depart at 09:00 for the Istanbul city tour. We will begin with the ancient Hippodrome, which was the scene of chariot raoes, with the three monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine. We will then continue with Sultanahmet Mosque across from the St. Sophia built in the 16th century by the architect Mehmet. It is also known as the Blue Mosque because of its magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. We will then arrive at our last stop, which is the famous Hagia Sophia. This ancient basilica was built by Constantine the Great in the 4th century and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th century,it is one of the architectural marvels of all time. After the tour you have the option to experience The Bosphorus Cruise. You will have the chance to enjoy magnificent views of Bosphorus, which connects Asia to Europe . The rest of the evening is your to enjoy Istanbul . Over night in Istanbul

Day 3

Seven Lakes and Abant Lake Tour
Visiting 7 lakes which are found to be diffirent height points from each other and at the same time connected with each other on foot. You find seven small lakes in a valley formed as the result of a landslide: Büyükgöl (Big Lake), Seringöl (Cool Lake), Deringöl (Deep Lake) , Nazlıgöl (Elegant Lake), Küçükgöl (Small Lake), İncegöl (Thin Lake) and Sazlıgöl (Reedy Lake). The lakes are on an area of 550 hectares, while the National Park they are located in is 2019 hectares. The area is among the best-known trekking places. There are only small bungalows belonging to the Forestry Ministry where visitors who want to linger can stay. Deer and trout production farms are also in the area. An entrance fee is paid according to the type of vehicle and the number of visitors. Tables, firepits and fountains are available for picnickers. Fishing is available in Yedigöller between April 1st and September 1st. We will then have some lunch and depart for Abant Lake. Abant is most probably the most famous lake in Turkey. It is 30 kilometers away from Bolu, and you can reach it from the crossing on the Ankara-Istanbul highway. The lake is at the end of a 22-kilometer drive. The seven-kilometer walk around the lake offers a great opportunity to enjoy the area. Those who don't wish to walk can ride horseback or complete the tour on a horse cart. Abant lake is surrounded with pine trees. The manner in which the lake was formed is a topic of discussion. Its deepest point is 45 meters. The countryside is pleasantly different in each season. Water lilies embellish the surface in summer. It is also famous for its trout. Later,we will have free time for shopping at the bazaar in the village.Drive to our hotel. Overnight near Abant in traditional village house

Day 4

Safranbolu
After breakfast, We have a walk to the historical Safranbolu Bazaar. We then visit Cinci Hodja Caravanserai, Cici Hodja Bath, Kaymakamlar House (Museum), Izzet Mehmet Pashamosque and more.. Continue to Kastamonu, we visit government house, Kaya tomb, Seyh Saban-i Veli Mausoleum, Nasrullah Seyh Mosque and more historical sites. Overnight in authentic wodden houses in Safronbolu

Day 5

Ilgarini Cave Pinarbasi
Today we will depart for Ilgarini Cave,which is in the region of Pinarbasi (northwest of Kastamonu),it is one of the largest caves in Turkey. It is a wonderful place for trekking and exploration off the beaten path. The cave had been composed by two sections. The cave is an active one and the stalactite and stalagmite activity still continues. A chapel and a burial ground was found in this cave. Ilgarini Cave was chosen as the 4th biggest cave in the world. There is no roads to IIgarini Cave so we will be trekking to the Cave so make sure you bring suitable footwear. Over Night in Pinarbasi

Day 6

Ilısu Waterfall & Varla Canyon.
After breakfast we will visit Ilısu Waterfall which is at Küre national Park, near Pınarbaşı, which is in the town and district of the Kastamonu Province in the Black Sea region of Turkey. After lunch you can either relax in the surrondings of this beautifull natural Turkish village or you can take a walk to the Varla Canyon. The walk to the Canyon is about 4km. Overnight Pinarbasi

Day 7

Comlekciler Village Horse Riding
After breakfast depart for Comlekciler Koyu this village has fantastic horse riding facilities which you can do as an optional activity. Horse riding is not only for the advanced riders they have lessons and treks for beginners also. This village is rich in natural beauty. All meals are home made the farm produce all their own vegetables, butter and milk. If you are interested in doing a week's horse riding adventure then this can also be arranged. Overnight Comlekciler Village

Day 8

Halacoglu Valley Tour
After breakfast we depart for Halacoglu Valley. We will visit this valley by different methods of transport such a horses or tractors and a little bit of walking. This is one of the best valleys in this area. You can smell and breathe in the fresh mountain air. We will have a fantastic bbq lunch set in lushous gren surrondings. On the way you will get to see many farms and sheperds who stil work in this area. You will see how friendly everyone is in this area. Overnigt Comlekciler Village

Day 9

Kastamonu
After breakfast we depart for Kastamonu. Kastamonu is a lovely city hidden in the midst of forests in Anatolia. The beauty of the 12th century Byzantine castle at the foot of the hill welcomes you. The 13th century Atabey Mosque and the Ibni Neccar Mosque are worth visiting. In the village of Kasaba you will have the opportunity to see one of the most elegant wood carvings of Turkey, on the Mahmut Bey Mosque. Have lunch in City and after lunch depart for Hattusa. Hattusas(Hattusa) was the capital of Hitites. Hititians where indo-germen semi european people they arrived via black see to north Anatolia at the beginning of 18 th century BC.They met here with local people of Hatti.They had a big civilisation in Anatolia.Their were also here during the as bronze age.They ruled between 18th and 12th century BC.Also they used horse cartsas their war vehicle which they used during the attack of Ramses the 2nd and they had a big war with the Egyptians and then they made a peace treatywhich they wrote on the clay and had 2 women sign it.This was the first peace treaty in which woman participatied in. Over Night in Hattusa.

Day 10

Hattusa Tour - Cappadocia
After Breakfast at 08:30 am Visiting Yazilikaya which is the ruins of open air temple of Hitites where there are rock carving of Hitites god and Goddes .And then we go to Hattusas, big temple and the city ruins including Gates of Lion and king.Visiting summer palace of Hitites. And driving to Alacahoyuk that was first capital of Hitites and Hatti civilisation. After Hattusa Tour depart for Cappadocia. The strange but beautiful formation of Cappadocia has had this appearance for millions of years. When the volcanoes in the region were active, the lava which poured out covered all previously formed hills and valleys forming a high plateau. It is estimated that there are more than 600 rock-cut churches in Cappadocia. Walls were covered with beautiful frescoes and they were also influenced by the Iconoclast period in the 8th and 9th Century. The underground cities in Cappadocia are unique too. No one knows when the underground cities of Cappadocia were built, perhaps in Hittite times or as late as the 6Century. Another region worth visiting in the area is the famous Ihlara Valley. Ihlara Valley (Canyon) is a deep, narrow river gorge cut through the tufa by the Melendiz River. The canyon runs for 20 km / 12 miles offering one of the most enjoyable trekking routes to those people who can spare the minimum of half a day. In the canyon there are about 60 churches, monasteries and cells of anchorites. There are also loads of activities available in Cappadicia: hot-air ballooning, horse and camel riding, trekking, the list goes on. Overnight Cappadocia

Day 11

Cappadocia Tour by Jeep Safari
The full day Cappadocian Jeep Safari begins in the deeply set valley town of Urgup and will then drive through to the Uzengi River . The drive will take you through scenery that includes pigeon houses, the grape growing district and the near by wineries of Ortahisar. The jeep tour will then take passengers off the beaten track with a visit to the picturesque caves of the Red Valley . The jeep safari provides the perfect opportunity to take a rest and soak up the natural beauty of the Cappadocian scenery. Overnight Cappadocia

Day 12

Cappadocia
We'll pick you up in your hotel and depart at 09:00 o'clock to drive to Ihlara Valley. There, we'll walk nearly 4 km and visit the frescoed churches before it gets hot. Lunch is in Ihlara Valley, at bank of Melendiz River, which is flowing in the valley. After lunch, we'll visit Selime Cathedral and return back to Derinkuyu Underground City. On the way, we'll visit the Nar Crater Lake. Whilst all other tour groups are at Ihlara Valley, we will be in an underground city where temperature is 12-13 C afternoon!!!. After we visit the biggest underground city of Cappadocis, we'll drive to the Pigeons Valley to see pigeon houses, which were made to collect guano in. Overnight Cappadocia

Day 13

Cappadocia – Konya Ergidir
This morning we drive to Konya and see the imposing green-tiled Mausoleum of Mevlana & museum, the mystic founder of the Sufi sect (Whirling Dervishes). Stop in Egridir on the southern tip of the most beautiful of the Pisidian lakes. Egirdir is a fine place to stop in the midst of your journey for two days of quiet rest and contemplation.. Over Night in Egridir.

Day 14

Egridir Free Day
Egridir is beautiful and shows another side of Turkey all together. Swimming, boating and hiking can fill a few days if you want to be active. You can also swim in the beautifull natural lake that lies at Ergidir. There are famous fish to be caught here that seem to have no bones… The fish is extremly delicious dont miss out on the traditional meal of Balik ‘'Fish ‘' and the famous Turkish drink Raki.
There are a number of small farms located in this area where you can see the workers using traditional methods of farming. You will be welcomed by all people in this region. Overnight in Egirdir

Day 15

Egridir to Pamukkale
After breakfast at 08:30 we depart for Pamukkale. We shall visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castle) and the ruins of Hierapolis, walking around this natural phenomenon gives you the option of lying in the waters of the natural springs that flow down the calcium terraces. Over Night in Pamukkale.

Day 16

Pamukkale - Ephesus
At 0830 we depart for Ephesus (2.5 Hour drive) - once the commercial centre of the ancient world - it is a highlight of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple, once considered one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World and rebuilt several times, dates in its latest form from the third century B.C. The tour of the ruins also includes a theatre, gymnasium, agora and baths, as well as the Library of Celsus. After lunch, we will make a shopping tour in which you will become aware of the ancient arts of Turkey like leather manufacturing and jewellery. As this will be a guided tour, you will avoid the constant nagging and sometimes bullying that is well known in the markets of Turkey. Enabling you to enjoy the shopping experience whilst gaining the knowledge of the ancient craftsmen. Overnight in Sirince..

Day 17

Tour of Village Sirince
After breakfast at 08:30 we will depart for Sirince Village. Visit the beautifull village of Sirince and the ruins of 42 churches, the suggested birth place of the Virgin Mary. Sirince Village also has a fantastic reputation for making some of the best wines in Turkey - especially fruit wines. Sirince's construction style today belongs to Anatolian Greeks. The houses on the slope are all original with their white paint. There is a good view at the slope all buildings are still original with their white paint. There is a good view at the entrance of the village and its streets are also wonderful. Sirince is very popular for its building style, house, streets and apple wine made by the villagers. In 1922 the Anatolian Greeks immigrated back to Greece and Turks coming from Greece settled there.

After the Sirince tour we will visit Mount Ida, Turkish Kazdağı , with a meaning of "Goose Mountain" it is a mountain in northwestern Turkey, and lies southeast of the ruins of Troy, along the north coast of the Gulf of Edremit. The name, Mount Ida, is an ancient one. Overnight Kazdagi Village houses

Day 18

Kazdagları (Mount Ida)
Situated in the West of the province of Balikesir, the Mount Ida of classical mythology retains something of its ancient magic in its delightful trails and waterfalls, its rural charm and scenic views.
This mountain has the second best natural Oxygen levels in the world. Today it is a haven for climbers and trekkers. The mountain's healthy climate is also home to a range of arts and crafts, including some which date back to nomadic Turkish tribes. The steep and level tracks, asphalted lanes and gardens of Zeytinli afford the walker a constant permutation of surface and vista. In the Village of the Wooden Birds (Tahtakuşlar Köyü), just a few kilometres from Akçay, stands Turkey's first private ethnographical museum and first village art gallery. The legends of the Kaz mountains are told here and the medicinal plants which grow on them can be purchased along with local handicrafts.A kilometre to the Southeast is Şarlak, with its commanding view of Çamlibel and the Gulf. Its picnic area and tea garden, containing a pool in the shape of the Sea of Marmara, are an ideal place to gather breath. Mount Ida defined with various names in the Iliada Legend of Homeros have comprised many legends throughout the history with its natural-cultural assets and unique beauties. Besides it's an important attraction center considering the recreation and tourism activities. Overnight Kazdagi Village houses

Day 19

Assos & Troy Tour
Assos lies within the village of Behremkale. It is believed that Assos was founded by the people of Methymna in the 7th century B.C. a town on the island of Lesbos. Walls surround the Acropolis, built on a hill dominating both sea and land, about 3 km. in length. These walls were distinctively built at the time expressing different style and workmanship. Try the restaurants and the cafes in the village and also at the harbour. Enjoy the small cobbled beach next to the harbour, swim over the huge remnants of ancient harbour ruins, lying just under the surface of the gentle sea. or walk down the cobbled road to the harbour (iskele) and admire the mosaics of a partly excavated byzantine church, as well as the marvellous view on the Greek island of Lesbos and the gulf of Edremit. After lunch depart for Troy where you can explore the site of the legendary town, made famous by Homer and visit the Temple of Athena. Overnight in Eceabat

Day 20

Gallipoli Tour – İstanbul
After the breakfast visit the sites that have made Gallipoli a landmark and the memorial for all those that fell during the Battle of Gallipoli during World War 1. Gallipoli also stands as the birth place for the foundation of Turkey as we know it today. The rise of Turkeys founder Ataturk as well as the friendships formed between several nations during the battle for the Dardanels. After the Tour Depart for Ä°stanbul. Overnigth Istanbul

Day 21

Istanbul Tour The End
We hope your tour was a memorable one and we would like to see you in the future in one of our tours again .After breakfast check out from the hotel. We make your return airport transfer services. Have a nice trip back home and thanks for choosing TravelShop Turkey

Extra Information

Inclusions -

TOUR INCLUDING 3, 4 Star, Village Houses, Bungalows and Boutique Hotels in each area 3 Nights accommodation in İstanbul with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Abant with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Safranbolu with Breakfast and Dinner 2 Nights accommodation in Pinarpasi with Breakfast and Dinner 2 Nights accommodation in Comlekciler with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Hattusa with Breakfast and Dinner 3 Nights accommodation in Cappadocia with Breakfast and Dinner 2 Nights accommodation in Egiridir with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Pamukkale with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Sirince with Breakfast and Dinner 2 Nights accommodation in Kazdaglari (Mount Ida ) with Breakfast and Dinner 1 Nights accommodation in Eceabat with Breakfast and Dinner Guided Tour to Istanbul Guided Tour to Seven Lakes and Abant Lake Tour Guided Tour to Safranbolu Guided Tour to Ilgarini Cave, Guided Tour to Ilısu Waterfall, Guided Tour to Varla Canyon Guided Tour to Pinarbasi Guided Tour to Comlekciler Village Guided Tour to Halacoglu Valley Guided Tour to Kastamonu Guided Tour to Hattusa Guided Tour to Cappadocia Guided Tour to Egiridir Guided Tour to Pamukkale Guided Tour to Ephesus Guided Tour to Sirince Village Guided Tour to Kazdaglari (Mount Ida ) Guided Tour to Asos Guided Tour to Troy Guided Tour to Gallipoli Private Air-conditioned busses Private Professional English speaking tour guide All entrance fees mentioned in the Itinerary Private airport transfers

Exclusions -

Tour Excludes : International and Domestic Flights Personal expenses: Lunches, Extras at hotel or meals Tipping: Tips for guide and drivers Insurance: All types

Extras -

Discription
Experience the 4 corners of Turkey and the different cultures and peoples that make up this great and vast country, from the Agricultural farmers in the north to the arid regions of the east, The historical sites of the south give depth and age to the local environment and the varied people that will entertain and accommodate you through this wonderful journey. PS: The above tour is based on a private tour. If you would like to visit any other Eco Touristic places not mentioned on this itinerary we are happy to make a tailored made ECO Toursim holiday to suit what ever you wish to do. Just let us know how long you would like to stay and which places you are interested in visitng.