The Cave Hotel

Explorers looking to quell their inner speleologist can stay at the Aydinli Cave House Hotel, which opened in 2008. Located high above the old village center in the heart of old Göreme, Turkey, the 14-room family-run hotel is carved from natural rock and the traditional stone of Cappadocia, where parts of the cave’s structure date back 750 years. Rooms are decorated in natural, earthy decor and are named after their origins. The former pigeon nests and food storage room, referred to as Divanhorne, or the Living Room, offers original carvings and a private terrace with the best view. The Sirahane, or Wine Place, comprises two large rooms connected by a mini stairwell. One was used to squash grapes for the production of wine and pekmez, a Turkish grape molasses, and the other, Cardark, is where bread was baked. Before exploring Cappadocia, experience a traditional Turkish buffet breakfast or take in the panoramic views of Göreme and Rose Valley from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum or hike through Pigeon or Rose Valley. There are also Turkish cooking classes, a kilim-weaving tour and belly dancing for those wishing to connect with Turkish culture. Aydinli Mahallesi, Aydinli Sokak No. 12, Göreme, 50180 Nevsehir, Turkey; thecavehotel.com