Love Valley (Turkish: Aşıklar Vadisi) is one of Cappadocia’s most whimsically named and visually striking valleys – famous for its phallic-shaped fairy chimneys which give the valley its cheeky name. Yes, you read that right!
Eons of erosion sculpted the soft volcanic rock here into towering pillars with rounded tops that (with a little imagination) resemble, well, giant stone penises.
Locals, with a sense of humor, dubbed it “Love Valley” and the name stuck.
What is Love Valley?
Love Valley is essentially a canyon-like valley just outside of Göreme, running towards Uçhisar.
Walking through it, you’ll be surrounded by those mushroom-capped rock spires rising from the valley floor – some over 30 meters tall. It’s a bizarre and fascinating landscape, even by Cappadocia standards.
In spring and summer, the valley floor is lush with fruit trees and vegetation, creating a lovely contrast between green gardens and whiteish rock towers. There’s also an upper trail and viewpoint that gives a panoramic view over the whole valley.
Ways to visit Love Valley
Love Valley offers a range of unforgettable experiences, from scenic hikes to thrilling ATV rides and romantic breakfasts.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, guided insights, or a peaceful moment surrounded by unique rock formations, there’s a way to explore that suits your style.
Hiking in the Valley
There’s a trail from Göreme that leads into the valley often considered part of the “White Valley/Love Valley” trail. You can do an out-and-back hike from Göreme or start from the Uchisar side, where there’s a known Love Valley panorama point, and hike down. It’s not a difficult hike – about 2–3 km (1.2-1.8 miles) one way.
The reward is an immersive experience among the fairy chimneys. The sheer scale of some of these formations up close is impressive and, ahem, potentially blush-worthy.
Note: Wear decent shoes, as the path can be uneven. Bring water, especially in summer, as it gets hot and there’s little shade deeper in the valley.
ATV/Jeep Tours
Many ATV (quad bike) sunset tours include a stop at Love Valley’s viewpoint. Also, Jeep safaris often swing by. If hiking isn’t your thing, an ATV tour at sunset will let you see Love Valley lit up in golden hues.
The tour groups often stop at the viewpoint above the valley, on the road between Göreme and Uçhisar. From there, you look down upon all the rock pinnacles scattered in the valley below – a great angle to appreciate the whole “valley of love.”
Love thrilling adventures? Don’t stop at just one—hike into other amazing valleys in Cappadocia like Red Valley, Rose Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Monks Valley for even more breathtaking views and fun!
Guided tours of the Valley
Love Valley is almost always included in the North Cappadocia (Red tour) itinerary. The Cappadocia Red tour will take you to a panoramic spot at Love Valley, along with other sights like Göreme Open Air Museum and Avanos.
This is a convenient way to hear about the geology and history from a guide. Usually, it’s a quick photo stop – about 15-20 minutes to take in the views and snap pictures with the valley backdrop.
After your hike, enjoy a hearty Turkish meal at one of Cappadocia’s top restaurants—then relax with a glass of local wine and soak in the flavors of the region!
Breakfast in the Valley
For a romantic twist (this is Love Valley, after all!), how about a valley breakfast? There’s an experience where you can have a private breakfast picnic among the fairy chimneys – imagine a low table set up with Turkish breakfast items right in the valley, early in the morning, with balloons overhead. You can book a “Breakfast in the Valley” private tour that arranges something like this. It’s a bit of a splurge, but talk about a memorable start to your day!
You can also explore Love Valley on a horseback riding tour, especially at sunrise or sunset, for amazing views.
Why should you visit Love Valley?
Aside from the giggle-inducing rock formations that make for fun photos, Love Valley is genuinely beautiful. It’s a great place for a hike – mostly flat if you stay on the valley floor.
As you wander, you’ll feel like you’re in a forest of stone pillars. Photographers in Cappadocia love it, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when soft light enhances the textures.
Also, if you’re in Cappadocia for the hot air balloons, note that many balloons fly over or near Love Valley at sunrise. Watching balloons drift above these rock towers is an unforgettable sight, and if you’re in a balloon, Love Valley is one of the spots you might drift over.
Love Valley is a must-see for its unique scenery, perfectly capturing Cappadocia’s blend of natural beauty and playful charm.
Just be prepared for a bit of laughter when you first lay eyes on those rocks – Cappadocia has a sense of humor courtesy of Mother Nature.
