About the tour

Our tour begins and ends in Istanbul and in between explores the story of this fascinating country through its people, spectacular architecture and ruins, simple villages, modern cities, artistry, culture and unique landscapes.

Because of its strategic location at the intersection of Asia and Europe, Anatolia has been a cradle for several civilisations since prehistoric ages; from Neolithic settlements like that of 7000 BC Catalhoyuk, through the bronze and iron ages, Hellenistic and Roman empires, to the Byzantine and Seljuk tradition of the middle ages.

The conquest of Anatolia by Turkic peoples coming from the east in the 11th century was gradual and culminated in 1453 with the vanquishing of Constantinople (modern Istanbul).

The vast, multi-ethnic Ottoman Empire was to last for six centuries until World War 1, after which the modern Turkish Republic was formed.

DOBAG Villages

A unique aspect of the tour is our exploration of the villages involved in the DOBAG project.

Situated in western Turkey, the villages are not open to tourists, and visitor access is only possible in the company of authorised and invited people.

This is to protect the privacy and traditional way of life of the villagers. Over fourteen years, we (Terry & Pam Hoyne), as the authorised Australian DOBAG dealers, have built up a warm relationship with the weavers and their families and are privileged to be welcomed into their lives.

We share meals with the village people, watch a natural dyeing demonstration, home weaving and spinning, and gain a first hand insight into the daily lives of the weaving families, including an overnight stay.

Overnight stays:

Istanbul (3 nights), Canakkale (1 night), Assos (2 nights), Orselli Village (1 night), Selcuk (3 nights), Pamukkale (1 night), Konya (2 nights), Cappadocia (3 nights), Ankara (2 nights), Istanbul (3 nights).

Visits include:

In Istanbul - Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise; Anzac Cove, Troy, Pergamum, Villages of the DOBAG Project, Ephesus, Aphrodisias, Priene, Didyma, Pamukkale, Catalhoyuk, Goreme Valley, Sultan Han, Hattusas, Anatolian Civilisations Museum and Ataturk Mausoleum in Ankara.

Type of touring: Long distance coach travel.

Fitness level required:

Some days involve extensive outdoor walking, steps, slopes and uneven rocky ground. Please ask us if you have any questions about personal fitness requirements.

Booking:

To request a detailed copy of the full itinerary or for further information about the tour please contact us.