A FASHION DESIGNER'S TRAVEL GUIDE TO CAPPADOCIA AND BODRUM
After being enchanted by Istanbul, I made my way to Cappadocia in the centre of Türkiye, then ambled southwest to Bodrum, which is nestled on the Aegean coast. And as my expedition expanded, so did my love for this breathtaking country, it’s people, traditions, colour and verve.
Cappadocia Cool
Tekelli, Kayabas Sk. No: 23, 50240 Uçhisar/Nevsehir Merkez/Nevsehir
Anatolian Accommodation
Channelling my inner cavewoman, I was lucky enough to stay in the Argos, in the historic town of Uçhisar, a property built into ancient caves and the tunnels of a historic monastery. The interiors retain nature’s contours and each room is so warm and luxurious.
Venture outside, and you overlook the undulating Pigeon Valley and the Erciyes Mountain beyond, an area renowned for its otherworldly beauty.
The Argos is a sustainable hotel and passionate about minimising impact on the environment. I loved devouring morsels from their all-Anatolian menu. Pickled vegetables prepared by local families are stored in their fermentation room for example, a reflection of how indigenous culture is celebrated by the hotel through the revival of traditional cuisine.
Pottering Around
It’s not only a feast for the body, but also for the soul. With my soul craving nourishment, I headed to a pottery class at a local family-run business who have crafted Iznik ceramics for centuries.
The owner shared that one of their most popular pieces was a Hittite jug. The Hittites worshipped the sun god and designed a flagon that has a hole through the centre. They would fill it full of wine and place it at the highest point close to home, letting the first rays of the morning sun pass through it. The wine would then be considered blessed and used for celebrations and religious ceremonies.
One Glorious Gallery
I couldn’t tell you anything about the walls of the Gallery Ikman. They can’t be seen as they are covered, floor to ceiling, in traditionally woven rugs and handicrafts. I sat in awe among them, drinking apple tea and eyeing up all the wares for the best part of a day. The shop has been owned by the same family for five generations and it was an honour to experience it.
The Imaginary Valley
In spite of a dreamlike name, this beautiful valley is real. Officially called the Derwent Valley, it’s dotted with rock formations created after centuries of erosion. Each natural sculpture resembles a mythical creature, an animal or what they call a fairy chimney. Mother Nature… and a gallery of her incredible works of art.
Sunset Dining
Cappadocia is famous for its hot air balloon rides at the rising and setting of the sun. The horizon explodes with colour and fine flames as they glide across a dusky canvas. Create an evening to remember and dine in one of the restaurants that have a view from their terrace.
Cratus
Upscale dining on a terrace with exceptional views, framed by palm trees and there’s even a spa. Bring your swimwear.
Avcılar Neighbourhood Behind the Municipality No:11 Göreme/Nevşehir
The Wish Terrace
A charming, laid-back space with tasty traditional mezze plates, open fires and swings to sit on. Swing up high and make a wish.
Aşağı Mah.Trafo Çıkmazı Sok. No:3 Uçhisar/ Nevşehir
The areas Göreme and Ürgüp are lively after dark. Enjoy cave or balcony dining and thrumming wine bars as you enjoy people watching and gazing up to a sky full of stars.
Beautiful Bodrum
My final stop on my journey through this magnificent country was Bodrum. This is a city on a peninsula with twin bays, a bustling marina and a castle which is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Accommodation Of A-Listers
I was so grateful to experience incredible accommodation in Türkiye, from the former artists’ prison in Istanbul to the caves of the Argos in Cappadocia and now, here I was in the Maçakizi hotel. A hedonist’s dream, this exclusive property has been frequented by Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Bill Gates and Princess Margaret. The bougainvillea tumbling over balconies and verdant olive trees inspired two prints from my collection.
Türkbükü, Narçiçeği Sokak, 48400 Bodrum/Muğla, Türkiye
Fun In The Sun
Marina Magic
For retail therapy with views, saunter down to the marina. It isn’t just a spot for yacht enthusiasts, but the home of brands and boutique stores. Everything from furniture to cosmetics can be found here. Take a moment to spoil yourself.
Bodrum Castle
Enjoy amazing views over the turquoise Aegean Sea from the towers of Bodrum Castle. Originally built in 1402 it has recently been lovingly restored and houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology so there is even more to experience and discover.
Çarşı, Kale Cd., 48400 Bodrum/Muğla
A Serenade To Seafood, Steak & More
Being coastal, it makes sense to try all the tantalising morsels Bodrum’s oceans have to offer. I don’t limit myself though and discovered plenty of delicious meat and vegetarian options while dining out here too.
Annalivia
Step onto this all white terrace and enjoy fantastic views of the bay and neighbouring rooftops. Everything on the menu is authentic, moreish and I recommend some of the typically Turkish treats such as Aegean stuffed vine leaves, dips and kebabs.
Sakir Esendemir Sokak no:6/B, Gumbet 48400 Türkiye
Bamboo House
A casual, outdoor dining haven with comfy couches, surrounding foliage and straw pendant lighting. A real summer holiday vibe.
Zengin Hüseyin Sokak No:21, Bodrum City 48400 Türkiye
When my trip to Türkiye drew to a close, it was akin to leaving a spiritual home. I longed to stay in this world of vividly coloured tapestries. To drift across the horizon in a balloon, create more pottery with kindred spirits and continue to marvel at the craftsmanship of the Turkish people and my muse, Mother Nature.
If only I could transform into one of the cats that prowl and protect the streets of these vibrant Turkish cities. Independent and curious, well fed and adored. Maybe even worshipped from time to time.
