Destination Inspiration: Pamukkale, Turkey

Why go?

The white rock terraces of Pamukkale resemble something otherworldly. ‘Cotton castle’ in English, this natural wonder formed over millennia from limestone deposited by calcium-rich waters, creating warm, milky-blue thermal pools. You can bathe, as the Romans once did, in these pools and gaze skyward, or make your way uphill to enjoy the panoramic views from the top.

Turn around and you’ll find the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis, a Greek-Roman city dating back to the 2nd century BC. Amidst crumbling columns believed to have fallen during an earthquake centuries ago, this ancient site overlooks petrified waterfalls and pastel-hued travertines from a height of 200 metres.

Take a dip in Cleopatra’s Pools, watch the ‘champagne bubbles’ dance on the water’s surface, and cast your mind back 2,000 years. What would the Romans have been doing? Probably exactly the same thing.

When to go?

Pamukkale basks in sunshine all year long, but gets very hot in summer. For milder temperatures – and lower prices – go between November and March. When you’re there, head to the ruins and travertines first thing in the morning for a quieter visit, as it gets very crowded in the afternoon.

Where to stay?

Venus Suite Hotel – Pamukkale, Turkey

Venus Suite Hotel offers luxury in an unbeatable location, just a short walk from Hierapolis. Kick off your day with a dip in the plush swimming pool and a buffet-style breakfast, or take some pastries for the road and beat the crowds to the travertines.

Pamukkale Termal Ece Otel – Pamukkale, Turkey

Travellers eager to explore the outdoors will love Pamukkale Termal Ece Otel. Found on the outskirts of town, the hotel offers both bike and car hire, as well as access to popular hiking routes. Booking.com guests highly rate the helpful staff, and the bedrooms’ thermal water hot tubs.

Sinter Terasse House Hotel – Pamukkale, Turkey

With Pamukkale’s historic centre just around the corner, the homely Sinter Terasse House Hotel is well located. But what Booking.com guests really love about this place is the hospitality of hosts Cenay and Sami, who offer excellent home-cooked Turkish food and guided tours of the town – even at night.

Pamukkale Melrose Viewpoint Suites – Pamukkale, Turkey

Clean and comfortable rooms with a chic design make Pamukkale Melrose Viewpoint Suites an ideal choice. The owners are great cooks too – serving up traditional homemade food for their guests after a day’s sightseeing at the travertines, which are just a 10-minute walk away.

Venus Hotel – Pamukkale, Turkey

Family-run Venus Hotel is sure to put you at ease, with traditional décor and welcoming staff. Every morning starts with a varied and healthy breakfast buffet on the terrace, before guests can hop on the free shuttle into Pamukkale. And if you prefer a quiet day, you can always relax in the pool or gardens.