Cycling through Turkey into Cappadocia, Ride to Avanos — a day full of contrasts, adrenaline, and unexpected human and animal encounters.
Ride to Avanos
Today I finally rolled into Avanos, the heart of Cappadocia. The weather is surprisingly kind — temperatures just above freezing in the morning, climbing to thirty degrees under clear skies by noon. Perfect conditions for a day of cycling and bikepacking. I pushed hard, trying to rack up as many kilometers as possible while the good weather lasted, building a small “reserve” for the days ahead.
The route? 180 kilometers across Turkey, back-to-back with yesterday — a proper test for both legs and mind. Yet every pedal stroke was rewarded by the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, the fairy chimneys, and endless rock formations stretching across the horizon.
A Heart-Stopping Encounter
At one point, my blood ran cold. From behind a guardrail, a huge Anatolian shepherd dog suddenly sprang out, charging straight at me. I was pinned between the guardrail and the edge of the road, with no easy escape. My only choice: brake and face the moment head-on.
The dog approached my bike, breath hot, muscles tensed. Then, as if on cue, it stopped, lowered its head, and wagged its tail. Not a predator, but a stray seeking attention. Instant tension melted into the most unexpected friendship of the day. I spent a few minutes petting him before continuing with a grin stretching from ear to ear.
Unexpected Generosity Along the Route
The kindness of people on the road continued. A fruit seller handed me a melon, and before I could even wash it, I found a large tomato resting on my handlebars.
On the highway bypass near Kayseri, a fast-food owner refused to let me pay for my meal. These moments of unexpected generosity fuel the ride more than any energy bar ever could. This is what the Ride to Avanos looks like.
The Final Stretch — Highway Adrenaline
The last segment of the day was a real challenge: 30 km along a busy highway bypass through Kayseri, then another 30 km on a narrow, broken roadside without shoulders. Cars passed by with mere centimeters to spare — mentally and physically exhausting, a true test of concentration and stamina.
Finally, after ride to Avanos, the reward: a well-earned rest in Avanos. One day without moving, just relaxing, regenerating, and soaking up the atmosphere of town and Cappadocia.
