Day 17 : Somewhere nearby Özlüce to somewhere nearby Mustafapaşa

I survived the first real solo wild camping in Turkey. No wild dogs, no men creeping around the tent, no weird noises -  or maybe I just don't know because I slept. I do know that it was a starry night :-)

Getting tired of Turkish breakfast...

Today I entered the 'real' Cappadocia, known for its rock formations, underground cities and hot-air-ballooning. 

The rocks eroded into hundreds of spectacular pillars and minaret-like forms. People carved out houses, churches and monasteries from the soft rocks.

Busloads of tourists are brought to the famous sites. On the small roads and off-road paths on the other hand, there is almost nobody. 

Cycling off-road was challenging, descending in sand a new experience. But it's fun and being rewarded by these views is absolutely worth the sweating and walk the bike parts.

Somewhere on the way I met an Austrian couple on their bikes. We talked a while, exchanging stories and tips.

A bit later, I came to a beautiful trail. According to komoot rideable, but it was more a hiking trail. Too challenging and hence I turned around. Driven by hunger, shortage of water and low battery anxiety, I cycled to the next village. Charging a powerbank takes time... so first I ate something and since it was a touristy place, I could enjoy a very slow beer until the powerbank was charged.

Finding a nice camping spot here was easy. This time even with a small stream, perfect to wash myself.