Reiseführer

Footprint Turkey Guide England
(1st edition, page: 508-509)

Ayvali: The small farming community of Ayvali, 10km south of Urgup is even further off the beaten track than Mustafapasa. Coming from Urgup, take right turn several kilometers before Mustafapasa The lane climbs gently through the vineyards and orchards with some good views north across the heavily eroded countryside towards Ortahisar.

The village originally lived in houses cut from the walls of a narrow gorge, reached by following the road up through the square and turning left down a narrow lane. However the extensive network of caverns and passages now lies abandoned, slowly crumbling. There is a small rock cut church on the far side of the gorge which can be followed on foot for 7 km upstream. Above all a visit to the village gives you a true insight into authentic village life in the region.

Sleeping: At present the only place to stay is the Gamirasu Hotel www.gamirasu.com ) which has been painstakingly converted from 5 old houses by Ibrahim Bastutan, now lovely rooms which are carefully furnished, soft, locally made woolen mattresses, set in immaculate garden, organic produce used in the kitchen, plans to run alternative therapy and healing courses.