Cave hotels are a unique part of the Cappadocia experience and Elkep Evi provided us with a near-perfect example with a charming, cool and comfortable room with views over the valley. The service was personal and responded very well when our transfer did not turn up at the airport. They also helped with advice and requests for travel including driver/ guide. Breakfast is simple but plenty of it. Minor details like non-functioning safe and dodgy shower took my rating from 5 to 4. But we would return and also highly recommend.

One of many cave hotels in this area, the Elkep Evi is like a miniature hill village. The rooms are not natural caves, but purpose cut into the rock with many charming details. Despite being deep in a hill, our room was high ceilinged and surprisingly airy and light. The bed was very comfortable. Staying here can be a workout - most rooms and the hilltop dining room require climbing several flights of rock-carved stairs. The modest downtown is an easy 10-15 minute stroll downhill, but a bit of a slog back uphill. A rather good fixed price dinner is available, but there is also a very nice restaurant, Dimrit, just a short walk downhill.

Our problems with the room: It was not possible to completely block the morning sun, making it difficult to sleep late; the bathroom was very poorly lighted; and shower/tub combo had a very high stepover of at least 26 inches, with nothing to hold onto. These things may have been particular to our room.

With the town a bit of a hike away, and no 'resort' facilities, we think this hotel best for those staying just two or three nights touring this fascinating area.

Be sure to climb the hill above the hotel for a great view out over the new section of Urgup.