Thermal Springs of Cappadocia

Ziga; The Ziga thermal springs are located just next to Ihlara Valley in the village of Yaprakpinar in the district of Guzelyurt. The waters have a temperature of 47 °C. and run out at a rate of 150 litres per second. The hot waters of Ziga thermal springs are composed of a mixture of many minerals and contain a high level of calcium, sodium, chlorine ions and hydrocarbon ioans. They are said to be efficacious in the treatment of rheumatism, metabolism disorders, skin conditions, eyesight problems and gynaecological problems.

Ilisu; The Ihlara Valley peters out into the Melediz Mountains through which runs the Melendiz River. This is where Ilisu is, at a distance of 48 km from Aksaray. There are cave houses and many churches and chapels hereabouts. As well as its obvious natural beauty there is also much history around and it has many of the famous characteristics of Cappadocia. As well as being blessed by natural beauty and a historical setting Ilisu also contains many thermal springs. Generally the thermal springs of Ilisu are rich in minerals and are used in the threatment of skin conditions. The work to build a Spa Center is ongoing.

Acigol (Narligol); This crater lake is found in the Sofular location of Gulagac district to the east of Aksaray and to the northwest of Nigde. The distance to Aksaray is 60 km, to Nigde is 80 km and it lies 50 km from Nevsehir. It can be appro ached by either the Nigde – Derinkuyu Highway or the Aksaray – Ihlara – Derinkuyu Highway.

Surrounded by mountains the lake has an altitude of 1363 m, covers an area of 57.800 m2 and, in places is 65 or 70 m deep.

In its general characteristics it can be considered an extension of the Cappadocia, almost as a continuation of Akasary – Ihlara – Derinkuyu valley. The whole valley is covered in fairy chimneys. Declared as a thermal spring tourism center by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the lake region has waters with a temperature of 65 °C emerging at a rate of 110 litres per second. There are plans to develop the region for tourism.