From the Jungle to the Moon and Back

Todays ride takes us out of the Goreme valley system and into an area of even more epic proportions. It’s a long and fairly challenging ride, roughly half on singletrack trails and half on fast and open inter-village tractor tracks. We begin with a steady climb up the hill to Uchisar and after a brief warm up enjoy a steep technical climb over Gemil hill- the highest point in the area with incredible views. Heading out to Kavak village sees us amongst rural, non-touristic Central Anatolia, and it’s nice to spend some time taking in the pace of life and local smiles in this totally authentic farming town. Before long we reach an amazing descent into the Gomeda Valley. This is like a natural BMX track with so many different lines to be ridden and natural carves and bowls like a man-made pump track! After a challenging final descent, we ride along the valley on jungle-like, overgrown singletracks (long sleeves recommended) with numerous technical stream crossings, log bridges, splash-downs and rocky river beds to contend with. Heading on into the Uzengi Valley we check out some of the finest multi-storey rock-cut pigeon lofts plus a “natural wonder” water spring. From here it’s an easy coast downhill to Urgup, where we eat a wonderful meal in one of the best local restaurants.
After lunch we ease into the afternoon with a gentle valley climb up on a shady dirt track beside uncultivated fields that are awash with wildflowers and butterflies in spring and early summer. Regaining our height without too much effort, we soon arrive at the Sunset Panoramic point high above Red and Meskendir valleys, and begin a fast, sometimes steep downhill along the Kiliclar ridge. Offering amazing views on both sides, this trail is one of the region’s best. Returning to Goreme through the undulating trails of Swords Valley, we can spend time exploring cave church complexes and stop to photograph some of Goreme’s most iconic landscapes.