Pamukkale Travertine Terraces

Pamukkale means “cotton castle” in Turkish. Warm, mineral-rich spring water flowing down the hillside has left terraces of white travertine and shallow turquoise pools, and above them lie the ruins of the Greco-Roman spa city of Hierapolis. Together they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You walk barefoot up a path across the terraces, paddling in the pools, then explore the theatre and necropolis of Hierapolis. The Antique Pool lets you swim in warm spring water among fallen marble columns.

Shoes are not allowed on the travertines, so bring a bag to carry them. The white surface is dazzling at midday; late afternoon is softer and cooler. Pamukkale pairs naturally with Ephesus, about three hours away by road. Children love splashing in the shallow pools along the path.