27/07/2026
Discover the Hidden Gems of Türkiye’s Hinterland
Off the Beaten Track with expert guide Ian Worrall
Thursday 8th – 15th October 2026
Following the popularity of his previous trips, Ian is looking forward to guiding this special journey through the culture, history and remarkable landscapes of inland Türkiye.
Beyond the coastline familiar to many visitors lies a hinterland of extraordinary natural beauty and historical importance. Successive civilisations—the Greeks, Persians, Romans and Ottoman Turks—have left their mark here, in ancient cities, striking architecture, exquisite sculpture and small provincial museums whose treasures remain wonderfully uncrowded.
Your guide, Ian, a founder of Huzur Vadisi more than 30 years ago, spent his childhood in Türkiye. He speaks fluent Turkish and brings an intimate knowledge of the country, its culture and its quiet, less-travelled roads.
This is an opportunity to discover the real Türkiye: its landscapes, hospitality, history and delicious food with frequent stops to enjoy scenery and meals, it involves only a 2 - 3-hour drive on each day.
(N.B. This is a cultural, gastronomic, and history tour - not yoga based)
“A thousand thank-yous to Ian for an amazing trip. He told us at the beginning that only 80% can be planned and the rest is magic! Well due to his immaculate preparation planning the route and booking the hotels our trip was all magic. From exclusive spa hotel to village house, we were warmly welcomed and more than bountifully catered for. We wove on unforgettable backroads up mountains, through orchards, around enormous lakes stopping for delicious lunches or a brew up by Ian. The journeying was never arduous, and I always felt I was in completely safe hands with Ian's driving. The ruins were spectacular and with Ian's wonderful knowledge of ancient history and his familiarity with the people and customs of present-day Turkey we were continually informed and entertained. I felt really privileged to be travelling with someone who could illuminate so much.”
Fairlie Gibson
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive at Dalaman Airport on Thursday 8th October, where you will be met and transferred to the Lagoon Retreat to spend your first evening relaxing and getting to know your fellow travellers.
Day 2 The following morning, we will set off through the impressive Ta**us Mountains, pausing at scenic viewpoints and stopping for lunch enroute. We arrive in the traditional mountain town of Gölhisar in time to experience the nearby ruins of Kibyra at sunset. We will spend the night here.
Day 3 The next morning, we will explore Kibyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site at the foot of the Akdağ Mountains. In antiquity, this remarkable city stood at the crossroads of Phrygian, Carian, Pisidian and Lycian cultures. We will then travel on to the upland lakeside town of Eğirdir, a journey of around three hours.
Day 4 Described in the 14th century by the traveller Ibn Battuta as “a city with a fine bazaar, running streams, fruit trees and orchards beside a lake of sweet water”, Eğirdir remains recognisable from his account today. We will spend two nights relaxing here, visiting the fascinating Nomad Market on Sunday - the reason we started the trip on a Thursday!
Day 5 The following morning, we will drive through exceptionally lovely mountain scenery to the newly accessible and impressive ruins of Sagalassos, where we will stay overnight at a nearby hotel.
Day 6 In the morning, we will explore Sagalassos before travelling to Burdur to visit its small but exquisite museum, home to sculptures and artefacts discovered at Sagalassos and elsewhere in the region. We then continue to the beautiful crater lake of Salda, with time to swim in its extraordinary turquoise waters, and spend the night nearby.
Day 7 On our final day, we make our way back slowly via mountain roads and traditional villages, stopping for spectacular views and delicious local food. We arrive at the charming seaside town of Göcek for a relaxed farewell dinner on the seafront and a night’s stay before departure from Dalaman on Thursday 15th October.
Price
£1,500 per person, includes airport transfers, minibus travel, single accommodation, all meals and Ian’s guidance. The price remains the same per person for couples or friends wanting to share a room, as it is based on price per room.
Group size maximum ten.
Flights not included.
Deposit (non-refundable) £500
Tip: Currently EasyJet flights from Gatwick to Dalaman 8th – 15th October are around £140 return!
For further information or to book, please contact Jane at [email protected]
