Never have we visited a single other country on this planet that surprised me as much as Turkey. This is one country that needs to be experienced by every motorhomers. Not just because it is so easy to wild camp but it has all the resources on your doorstep. On top of that, it is mind blowingly diverse, of both sights and people, that make up this land. Every time we head some where we find ourselves distracted by a hidden gem or group of locals. It is non stop entertainment and we love it.

Today, is no exception.

The rain is holding back but grey clouds slowly but surely build all around. As we drive along the massive salt flats the distant mountains are covered in a reddish haze. On a clear day this area would be stunning, but sadly today our view is dreary. We meander around the base of the hills, passing by a mix of factories, and rust stained industrial units surrounded by well cultivated farmland. Shepherds walk their sheep with Kangal dogs the size of lions.

Socks & Sandals?

At kaklik, we pull over in the hope we can find a mini market for a loaf and some vegetables. Pickings are slim in this fabricated town but I manage to find a few potatoes and a reasonably fresh loaf. The industrial zone caters more for the migrant worker with ‘grab me’ chocolate bars and frozen pide. On the way back to the main highway, we stop for some fresh water and several pomegranates. The chap is super friendly and although he spoke little English, he was adamant that we should head over towards the mines. We tried to understand what he was saying but his excitement got the better of him.

1 kg of pomegranates 5TL (60p)

We decided to head towards the mine scared landscape. To the boxy superstructures of the mine buildings with swirls of white spectral cloud surround the hills and mountains. Like two lost souls peering through the plumes of lorry dust and fumes, we spotted a faded brown sign. We quickly swing a left towards an clean, flat and empty car park.

Our Bumble free parking spot at Kaklik GPS position N037.856082, E029.385773

It is like we are parked between two worlds. To our right a world of noise and movement. Caterpillar trucks grind up and down, bringing freshly mined travertine to the crushers. Conveyor belts carry the rock to a hopper, which fills the lorries. Filled beyond loading capacity they zoom off bouncing all the way down the pot holed road. To our left, a hidden gem, a mini underground world of blue rock pools, natural springs and cascading white rock (click to enlarge photos).

Kaklik has the same travertine terraces as Pamukkale, but they are smaller and located inside a cave. It was discovered when the roof collapsed from natural weathering and opened to the public just over ten years ago. It is 190 metres long, 14 metres deep and over 2.5 million years old. We are alone in this extraordinary place and we are completely bowled over. It is stunning. We had not expected this. Wow! we keep saying. Wow!

Sulphur, which is an integral part of water passing through the cave, makes its deposits. It is white in colour, which is typical of limestone areas. Sodium bicarbonate in combination with sulphur seems that this cave has a characteristic odour, it bloody stinks. Locals call this place a Smelling Bath.

Spot the turtle

Outside, a pregnant bitch and a young bitch escort us around the ‘unloved’ facilities. Several years ago, the DSI (Turkeys water board) built an outside pool, canal, toilet block and picnic area. Sadly, the facilities are not used, the man made swimming pools are empty and the information boards faded. However, they are still well maintained and kept clean and tidy.

The two stray dogs are so well mannered and friendly. Mac n Tosh take a particular liking to the young bitch and find play time rather good fun. We cook extra rice and chicken and share our evening meal with our two new buddies. Mac n Tosh even share a gravy bone! In return, our motorhome is guarded all night long.

This week Anne & Chris from Bimbling with Boris got in touch, so good to hear from fellow campers.  Do check out their site folks as right now they are bumbling bimbling around France!