The thermal springs of Pamukkale in Turkey are an amazing natural phenomenon that magnetically attracts millions of visitors every year. Translated from Turkish, the name means "cotton castle", and it perfectly corresponds to the impression that the Pamukkale resort leaves when looking at it from afar or in photographs. As if in front of you is a huge castle consisting of many fluffy pieces of cotton. Another nickname of this amazing place is "Cleopatra's pool". According to legend, it was here that the Egyptian queen drew her beauty and youth.
Where is Pamukkale in Turkey: location and distance from popular resorts
Pamukkale is located in the southwestern part of Turkey, in the province of Denizli. This unique geothermal area is located 175 km from famous resorts such as Fethiye and Antalya. Distances from other cities are also different:
- from the Antalya coast (resorts of Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Alania), approximately - 230-330 km;
- from the Aegean coast (resorts Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye), approximately - 200-230 km;
- from Cappadocia - 608 km;
- from Ankara - 481 km;
- from Istanbul - 576 km.
Despite the considerable distances, visiting Pamukkale becomes easy and convenient, thanks to the numerous offers of travel agencies offering excursions. Traveling to the geothermal springs, do not miss the opportunity to visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, located on the territory of this unique resort.
What are the benefits of Pamukkale hot springs
Looking at the photos of Pamukkale, many imagine themselves swimming right on its unique terraces. However, travertines with their turquoise water have a completely different chemical composition, and bathing in them is prohibited. Natural pools are provided here for recreation.
In addition to visual delight, the pools in Pamukkale have amazing healing properties. Some visitors even describe the feeling as if they had plunged into a pool of champagne. This is due to the special composition of water saturated with calcium sulfate, carbon dioxide, calcium bicarbonate, magnesium, as well as natural ionization. This "magical" complex of substances promotes relaxation of the nervous system, relieves stress, and can also help in the fight against diseases of the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract and musculoskeletal system. In addition, the skin is grateful for such baths, getting a healthy and well-groomed condition.
Of course, although one swim will not save you from all diseases, it is still nice to imagine how beneficial this pool is for health. The water temperature here is kept constant at +36ºC, which makes it attractive for tourists around the clock. If you decide to spend your vacation here, we recommend choosing one of the hotels in Pamukkale.
Unfortunately, during the years of operation of the tourist destination, the travertine in some places has lost its original texture, resembling not cotton fields, but snowdrifts of our latitudes. However, after the appeal of the Turkish authorities to UNESCO, most of the terraces were restored, returning to their former snow-whiteness. By the way, Pamukkale and the ruins of Hierapolis are currently included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
How to get to Pamukkale independently
One of the best options to get to Pamukkale on your own is to rent a car. Despite the long journey, it provides a unique opportunity to enjoy picturesque landscapes. The roads in Turkey are known for their quality, which will make the trip truly pleasant.
For those who do not want to use the services of excursions and prefer not to rent a car, there is an alternative option - to take a bus to Pamukkale or Denizla, and then transfer to a minibus to the resort. Buses regularly run from almost all major cities and resort areas of Turkey, such as Istanbul, Antalya, Marmaris, Ankara and Fethiye.
You can also use the train to travel from Izmir to Denizla.
When is the best time to visit Pamukkale
Although Pamukkale welcomes visitors all year round, the best months for a trip are October, November, April and May. In the summer months, especially in July and August, there is intense heat, and in winter the temperature is kept at a cool level (no more than +12ºC). It should also be taken into account that it is better to walk on the terraces of Pamukkale barefoot, which may cause some discomfort during hot weather or a cool period.
Cost of a tour in Pamukkale and its contents
Prices for excursions to the city of Pamukkale are approximately $90 for a one-day trip. The price may depend on the place of purchase of the tour - on the street, local travel agencies will have one price, and hotel guides will have another price.
The standard price of the excursion includes a visit to the ancient city of Hierapolis, a walk on the mountainside and swimming in thermal pools. In the case of a two-day tour, accommodation is also provided. Additional expenses may arise for entrance tickets, the purchase of souvenirs and water. Details should be clarified at the place of purchase of the excursion.
