Step back in time with this restored 5th-6th century sextet of cave houses converted into a luxury hotel.
We were quite taken with these long-standing caves in Iran, and with this eco-boutique hotel in Turkey, but neither match the style of the restored Yunak Evleri hotel in Cappadocia. With fixings such as marble in the reception area, it isn’t the most modest tourism facility we have featured, but we do love to see history, nature, and travel merge in creative harmony. Once a sextet of cave houses carved out of soft limestone, a little cleanup and modern conveniences were added to this 5th-6th century marvel to produce a 21st century luxury hotel.
In 2000, the Yunak Evleri’s owners reclaimed the 5th and 6th century cave dwellings with the aim of creating a 30-roomed luxury hotel. The dining and reception area are set apart from the caves in a reclaimed 19th century Greek mansion complete with marble tiles.
“The name of the neighbourhood “YUNAK” comes from the old days when women used to do all their washing and of course, socialising by the fountain located at the village square. Being by the fountain and at the Yunak was the center of daily life,” according to the hotel’s website.
By adding plumbing, lighting, Wi-Fi, and modern entertainment such as a home theater, guests can enjoy a taste of history without completely leaving their comfort zone. Each of the rooms is accentuated with Ottoman antiques and includes a personal spa and patio, from where visitors can view the surrounding mesa.
Located in the center of Ürgüp, nearby a motley of cave houses and churches – some restored, others not – visitors have ample opportunity to go “cave-hopping.” And then in the evenings, exhausted from their underground pursuits, guests are invited to enjoy mellow sunsets in Yunak Evleri’s lush, candlelit common area beside a gentle outdoor fire.
Sounds irresistible, no?
:: Inhabitat
More eco-tourism in Turkey:
Daridere Resort and Camping Area a New Turkish Eco Tourist Spot
Selçuklu Evi Eco-ish Boutique Hotel in Turkey
Turkey Minister Takes Bold Stance Against Coastline Construction
Author: Tafline Laylin
As a tour leader who led “eco-friendly” camping trips throughout North America, Tafline soon realized that she was instead leaving behind a trail of gas fumes, plastic bottles and Pringles. In fact, wherever she traveled – whether it was Viet Nam or South Africa or England – it became clear how inefficiently the mandate to re-think our consumer culture is reaching the general public. Born in Iran, raised in South Africa and the United States, she currently splits her time between Africa and the Middle East. Tafline can be reached at tafline (at) greenprophet (dot) com.
This is really the most beautiful boutique hotel I came across. I’m working in boutique hotel industry for quite sometime, but never had any experience in these kind of boutique hotels. Hotels like Yunak Evleri helps to make boutique hotels a better living experience than any other luxury hotel.