Erciyes Dagi

Kayseri's famous volcanic peak ancient Ergaeus Mons dominates the foothills and plains. Reaching a height of 3,917m/12,847ft, it is the highest mountain in central Anatolia. It is believed to have last erupted in antiquity. Strabo described it as an active volcano in the first century A.D.

Some distance to the east lies Koç Dagi, which separated from the Erciyes Dagi in the early Tertiary era (26million years ago). The highlands are used today as summer grazing pastures. Kayseri's new ski center can be reached via the Talas Caddesi. After 2km/1.25mi fork off to Kayakevi and the center can be found in a broad valley behind the village of Hisarcik on a 2,150m/7,052ft pass. During the summer months expeditions to the top of the volcano begin from here (guide recommended).