Ephesus is the best-preserved classical city on the Mediterranean and perhaps the best place in the world to get the feeling for what life was like in Roman times.
As a strategic coastal gateway to the Eastern World, this Ionian refuge grew to be the second largest city in the Roman Empire , the site of a Christian shrine, and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Legend has it that the Virgin Mary, accompanied by St. Paul , came to Ephesus at the end of her life, circa 37-45 AD. Renaissance church historians mentioned the trip, and it is said that local Christians venerated a small house near Ephesus as Mary's. In 1967 Pope Paul VI visited the site, where a chapel now stands, and confirmed the authenticity of the legend. Also the Basilica of St. John is located near Ephesus . St. John is said to have lived the last years of his life here and after his death, a shrine was located over his grave.
The typical trip will involve an early morning start from Fethiye, with regular stops for coffee then lunch on arrival at Ephesus. The afternoon is spent exploring the town before checking into a small local hotel for the evening.
Next morning you will leave for Pamukkale. Pamukkale is unique and can only be described as a picture from a fairy tale. Referred to as the 'cotton castle' Pammukkale is a natural rock formation created over millions of years. Hot spring waters rich in minerals burst from the deep within the earth run through the ancient city of Hieropolis before cascading down the cliff face forming calcium pools and covering the mountain side in gleaming white deposits that can be seen for miles. There is a small area where it is possible to paddle in the warm waters and then you may bath in the infamous 'Cleopatra's Pool' in hot natural mineral water; feeling the real effect of the hot water fizzing against your skin, a sensation that is indescribable, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and tingling!
For further information and bookings FREEPHONE 0800 970 6958