The drive out of Kas reminded me of the Great Ocean Road, windy and hugging the coastline and the steep hillsides. We stopped for a vista spot, a scene which was on a previous edition of Lonely Planet Guide. Beautiful spot.
After the coastline, we travelled through farmland and through high mountains. Often the landscape seemed very dry and rocky.
On the way to Pamukkale today we made one of those interesting little stops Isik is renown for. We stopped at a rather large roadside restaurant for a particular delicacy: fresh yoghurt topped with honey and walnuts. It was delicious!
We made our way up to the upper entrance to the ancient city of Hierapolis, a Greek city from the second century BC which was destroyed by earthquakes, and rebuilt in Roman style sometime in the second century AD. It stands above a series of hot springs which were used as therapeutic baths.
We walked through the Neocropolis - city of the dead, where there are numerous grave sites stretching for about 2 km.
There's also an amphitheatre, a church, roman roads, and numerous other ruins from the ancient city.
After spending some time wandering through the ruins, it was time to take shoes off, and walk down the magnificent structures of the white cliffs of Pamukkale. These terraced formations have been created over time by the build up of minerals in the flowing water. It is quite beautiful.
Hundreds of people make their way to the springs for its healing powers. You are not permitted to bathe in the springs, only walk barefoot. Bathing is permitted in the ancient pool above the cliffs.
Highlight for the night was the Whirling Dervishes. These men whirl to put themselves into a trance-like state. It seems quite strange in some ways. Can't help admiring their dedication to achieve this level, even though I don't fully understand it. Watching it seemed like an intrusion on something quite private.
Once again this trip seems to have highlighted gaps in my knowledge and understanding, and has given me even more things to explore. Food for thought.
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