Melih USLU

Romantic Anatolia

Do you find that falling in love and traveling go hand in hand? If so, then you should know that are several romantic spots hidden throughout Anatolia. Here are some romantic travel suggestions for Valentine’s Day that will warm your heart, whether you have the person you love with you, or not.

Horseback Safari in Patara
This beach the longest in Anatolia, is located South of Fetiye. Going for a Safari behind the sand hills, which are among the most important habitats of Caretta caretta turtles, is a classic romantic moment special to Patara. Horseback safari tours may last up to12–13 kilometers. These specially trained horses are very easy to adapt to, but there is always the option of being accompanied by a guide.

Hot Air Balloon Tour in Cappadocia
Besides walking around the valleys of Cappadocia that resemble an ocean, inspecting the fairy chimneys and wandering down to its underground cities, seeing all of this from above is a breathtaking experience.  Besides, the agencies that organize the hot air balloon tours have already turned this into a special occasion. You get picked up from your hotel by dusk, and after traveling above the clouds for about an hour and a half, you land and are welcomed with cake and a hot drink.

Jeep Safaris in the Tauruses
Starting at Antalya and going over the ruins of Selge as it stretches to Köprülü Canyon, this action-packed route will take you through the trails of the Tauruses which are rich in surprises such as perilous valleys, ancient towns dating back to antiquity, and hospitable yörük villages. You can choose to explore the area as part of a safari group or by renting an SUV by yourself.

Sunset at Nemrut
The monumental tomb on the summit of Nemrut Mountain, 43 kilometers from Adıyaman, was built for the Kommagene Kings. Sunset paints the ocean of mountains extending to the horizon red,  displaying a symphony of colors. If you haven’t seen Nemrut, listed under UNESCO’s World Cultural Inheritance, Valentine’s Day may be the perfect opportunity for you.

Skiing in Palandöken
Forest hills covered with a white sheet, a glazing fire place in a quiet mountain hotel, a warm pool overlooking the snow, a candle lit dinner on a well laid table, and freedom to ski whenever you wish.  You can find all these and more at the Palandöken Ski Resort, which is getting ready for the 2011 University Winter Olympics.  The resort, which is only 13 kilometers from Erzurum’s city center, simultaneously offers a romantic atmosphere, luxury and winter sports to its guests.