Born Hotel

We’d booked and fully paid for one night, but when we arrived a few months ago, we couldn’t stay. The manager told us the hotel was full. He wasn’t fluent in English, but we understood that part easily enough. He then asked us to wait for a friend from a nearby hotel to come help figure out the booking company’s attempt to resolve it. That company couldn’t manage the situation because communication with the manager was lacking. We were traveling by car and found a four-star hotel in Kayseri for roughly the same price, though it was much more spacious. If you’re backpacking or traveling without a car, finding somewhere else nearby quickly could be difficult.

The room was clean, though pretty small, with little space for our things. Ours had a huge mirror on the ceiling, which was interesting, and the building itself is an old Ottoman house. Breakfast was average, and the staff didn’t seem very welcoming. The bathroom had no shower curtain, though that’s not unusual in this part of the world. It’s fine if you just need somewhere to sleep, but I don’t think it’s worth the money or a special visit. I’m sure there are better places nearby.

Breakfast was generous and varied, parking was easy, and the hotel was excellent value. It’s a comfortable, friendly place with a bit of character, well located for Ürgüp and the sights around Cappadocia. The building is beautiful, and our large room was very comfortable. The bathroom was worn, but had everything we needed, including a nicely refurbished shower. There’s a lovely shared terrace shaded by vine leaves, plus an upstairs sitting area and balcony for guests. Service seemed a little reserved at first, though ultimately friendly. Our front room faced the main road into Ürgüp, so it was noisy and there was some diesel smell. I think there may be family rooms at the back, along with twin and double rooms, so ask about those.

The family who own the place are wonderful hosts, and the location gives you a more unusual Cappadocia experience away from the crowds and fake tourism scene. It’s not far from the Göreme centre, though buses only come once an hour. As someone who loves history, I enjoyed the feeling of living in the past while still having modern comforts. I highly recommend staying here and plan to come back.