Leaving Ürgüp in a northerly direction on the main road to Avanos. The route stops for fuel to allow you to continue with a full tank. You will soon be at Devrent Vadisi, often referred to as Imagination Valley, a breathtaking tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Cappadocia. This unique valley is famous for its extraordinary rock formations that take on shapes of various animals and mythical beings, Camel Rock being the most recognised, making it a paradise for photographers. As you wander through this enchanting landscape, you’ll discover fairy chimneys, whimsical rock structures, and surreal vistas that inspire the imagination.

Just a few kilometres further and you can stop for more photographs at The Saruhan Kervansaray, built in 1249/1259 under Seljuk rule and served as a major stop along the Silk Road. Today it’s also known for its evening Whirling Dervish Ceremony, held within the great hall, creating a compelling blend of historical architecture and spiritual performance. Opening hours: 09:00 to 23:00 General entry is free but in evening event of Whirling Dervish Ceremony there is a ticket around 25-30€.
A whirling dervish ceremony, also known as a sema, is a traditional Sufi ritual of spiritual meditation performed by the Mevlevi Order. The ceremony involves dervishes spinning in a meditative trance, a practice that symbolizes the dancers' journey toward God by shedding their ego.

As you travel across the Anatolian highlands towards the city of Kayseri a very prominent snow capped peak grows larger and larger on the horizon, this is Erciyes Dağı, or Mount Erciyes, a massive, extinct stratovolcano in Central Anatolia standing as the region's highest peak 3,917 meters.

In the city of Kayseri you can visit Kayseri Castle, dates back to Roman times and was expanded by the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Its well preserved stone walls and towers surround a historic courtyard with cultural displays and local shops. Just beside it lies the Kayseri Covered Bazaar (Kapalı Çarşı) one of Anatolia’s oldest, featuring hundreds of shops selling carpets, spices, copperware, and regional delicacies in an authentic atmosphere making this a great place to stop for a coffee.

After leaving Kayseri you have 3 route options as you head towards Sivas.

The first option is just a 10 minute ride:
Turn left to visit Lake Tuzla or Lake Palas Tuzla, a nice deviation with just few extra kilometres more. The lake offers unique visual landscapes shimmering salt flats, open skies and bird watching opportunities is a nature stop in a broader Central Anatolia route.

The second option is even closer, just 500 metres from the route:
Turn left to visit Sultanhan Kervanseray, another caravanserai or historic roadside inn that provided lodging, food, and water for travellers, often found along routes like the Silk Road. These establishments were vital hubs for trade and cultural exchange, typically built around a central courtyard with rooms, stables, and other amenities like mosques, baths, and markets.

The third option gives you a chance to ride 50 kilometres off-road:
Turn left and follow the POIs. If you are looking for some adventure along this route you can take this deviation and ride some off-road along the river and in nature. This deviation is about 50 kilometres and almost 1 hour of riding. The route is thru Karakuz, Kaymak and Kazancık villages before you return on D260.

The route ends in historic city of Sivas, known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and delicious local cuisine.