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Güzelyurt is one of Cappadocias many undiscovered gems. The town faces the perfect cone of the Hasandağ volcano. It has a picturesque old quarter and a valley of rock monasteries that is as good as any in Cappadocia, yet remains nearly untouched by tourism. St Gregory Nazianzen, a 4th century Father of the church, spent part of his life in this town, which was then called Karballa or Karvali. His relics were transferred to Greece from the local church - now a mosque - in 1924.

Hotel Karballa occupies the buildings of a former Greek Orthodox theological seminary which date from the 19th century. Kirkit Tourism, a pioneer of youth and activity tourism around Turkey, operates the hotel in a spirit of friendly indolence. The facilities are somewhat dorm-style as befits the monastic spirit of the place. The vicinity offers some of the best hiking and horseback riding opportunities in all Cappadocia - notably the Ihlara Valley, a splendid canyon that richly rewards the 6-hour trek along its full length. Karballa would be the perfect place to spend a night or two on a side-trip to Ihlara from your main Cappadocian base.

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