Entrance Fee: Free from Çavuşin | Entry ticket required from Red Valley
Duration: 2 hours
Crowds: Medium
Red Valley gets its name from the dark pink hue of its stones, which becomes especially vivid in the afternoon sun.
The Hike:
Starting your hike from Çavuşin is free and allows you to experience the panoramic viewpoints and fascinating cave churches without the need for an entry ticket. However, it does take some time to reach these highlights.
Must-See Churches:
- Columned Church (Kolonlu Kilise):
From the outside, it might seem unassuming, but inside, you'll find a large nave with tall pillars intricately carved into the cliff. - Church of the Cross (Haçlı Kilise):
Located a few hundred meters uphill, this church is carved into the top of the rose-colored tuff. Narrow stone steps lead to its dome, where beautiful frescoes cover one wall. These frescoes are comparable in quality to those in other churches that charge for entry.
After visiting the Church of the Cross, take a break at the shady café below, offering a perfect spot for a cold drink before continuing your hike.
Best Time to Visit:
- Late Afternoon: This is the ideal time to witness the magical transformation of the stone colors, ranging from pink to ochre and white.
