Pigeon Valley

What makes it special

The dovecotes are carved into the soft volcanic rock of both valley walls. Each has a broad face outside and many nesting niches inside. Since ancient times, farmers gathered the droppings to fertilise the region's poor soil.

The cut fronts cover the fairy chimneys and rock pillars as well as the cliffs, so from the valley floor you have carved faces above you on both sides. The birds no longer matter to farming, but local people still look after the dovecotes.

The valley has its own plant cover and a waterfall that drops about 15 metres. At the Uçhisar end of the trail, the Evil Eye Tree is hung with nazar amulets.

Visiting

4 km of path links Uçhisar at the top of the valley with Göreme at the bottom, and most walkers go in that direction. The trail starts by the Evil Eye Tree on the Uçhisar side, where a sign tells you that you are on the right path.

For a shorter walk, a half route of about 2 km starts right beside the road where it enters Uçhisar from Göreme. On the steepest stretch of either route, a rope tied between two trees gives you something to hold. Turn round now and then for the view back up to Uçhisar Castle.

Guided or on your own

You do not need a guide here: the trail is straightforward to walk on your own. Day tours stop at the lookout above the valley, and some end there for sunset, but a group at the top sees less than you do from the valley floor.

Tips

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and water, because the valley is exposed and has little shade. In summer, set off early to stay out of the midday sun.

The lower part of the trail can be muddy and unsafe to walk, so ask at your hotel how the trail is holding up.